RAPAPORT... Australian jeweler Michael Hill has launched a line of
lab-grown diamond engagement rings priced at up to AUD 15,999 ($10,920), in an
effort to appeal to a larger consumer base.
“We understand that our customers appreciate having genuine
options when it comes to diamond jewelry — so now…customers will have an
additional choice in diamonds,” the company said.
The collection, which currently consists of eight solitaire
rings of varying carat weight, was created by synthetic-diamond producer Fenix. A
round brilliant, 1-carat chemical vapor deposition (CVD) ring with a 14-karat
white-gold band costs AUD 5,999 ($4,095), while a 2-carat stone can run up to $10,920.
A similar ring containing a 2-carat mined diamond with an 18-karat white-gold
band is listed on the retailer’s site for about double the price of its lab-grown
counterpart.
The line, which Michael Hill is selling on its website and
at select stores in Australia, New Zealand and Canada, is its initial offering,
it noted. The stones are independently certified by a “world-recognized” grading
lab, the jeweler explained.
“Michael Hill will always clearly inform our customers of the type of diamond they are purchasing,” the company
said.
Image: A 2-carat Fenix lab-grown diamond ring. (Michael Hill)
|
|
|
|
|