Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we are asked most often. Can’t find what you need? Email info@truce.diamonds or WhatsApp +44 7988 479869. We reply within 24 hours.
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. A lab-grown diamond is chemically, physically and optically identical to a mined diamond. Pure carbon in the same cubic crystal lattice, with the same Mohs hardness of 10 and refractive index of 2.42. It is not an imitation like cubic zirconia or moissanite; it is a diamond, grown in a controlled environment instead of underground.
Are your diamonds IGI certified?
Every Truce & Co. diamond is independently certified by the International Gemological Institute. Each stone arrives with a full grading report covering cut, colour, clarity, carat weight, polish, symmetry, fluorescence and method of growth (HPHT or CVD), and is laser-inscribed with its certificate number on the girdle.
How are lab-grown diamonds made?
Two methods. HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) recreates the conditions found 150km beneath the Earth’s mantle in a sealed press over two to four weeks. CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) grows the diamond layer by layer in a microwave-energised plasma chamber over four to ten weeks. Both produce real diamonds.
How much is a 2-carat lab-grown diamond?
A 2-carat lab-grown diamond of high grade (F-G colour, VS1 clarity, Excellent cut) currently sits between £2,000 and £3,500 for the loose stone. A finished engagement ring built around it lands between £3,000 and £4,500. Larger or higher-grade stones cost more.
How much do lab-grown diamonds cost compared to mined diamonds?
A lab-grown diamond of equivalent grade costs roughly 40 to 60 percent less than its mined equivalent. The difference reflects the absence of the inflated supply chain that mined diamonds pass through, not a difference in quality.
Do lab-grown diamonds hold their value?
no. And neither do mined diamonds at retail. Both lose 50 to 70 percent of their original purchase price on the secondary market. Buy a diamond to wear, not as an investment.
Are lab-grown diamonds ethical?
Lab-grown diamonds are generally considered the more ethical choice. Production is fully traceable; lab-grown production uses electricity and water, while mined production additionally uses fuel and disrupts approximately 100 square feet of earth per carat extracted on average.
Do you offer natural diamonds as well as lab-grown?
Yes. Truce & Co. now sets both. Every natural diamond is GIA certified; every lab-grown is IGI certified. The bespoke commission process is the same.
What is the difference between GIA and IGI?
Both are independent gemmological grading authorities accepted worldwide. GIA, founded in 1953, is the global standard for natural diamond grading. IGI, founded in Antwerp in 1975, is the practical industry standard for lab-grown specifically.
How much does a natural diamond cost compared to lab-grown?
A 2ct round brilliant of equivalent grade costs about £2,200–£3,500 lab-grown and £9,000–£14,000 natural for the loose stone. Same metalwork applies either way.
How long does a custom engagement ring take?
Approximately eight weeks from confirmed CAD approval. The full timeline runs roughly twelve weeks including consultation, CAD design, 3D printed prototype, casting, hand-finishing, stone-setting and London Assay Office hallmarking.
What is the payment process?
A 50% deposit begins the CAD design process. The remaining 50% is due before dispatch. Payments are processed via Stripe; UK bank transfer is also accepted.
Can I design my own engagement ring?
Yes. Every Truce & Co. Ring is designed from scratch with you. Our online ring builder lets you specify diamond shape, carat, quality, metal, setting style and band; this becomes the brief for the consultation.
What materials do you work with?
Platinum (95% purity, hallmarked), 18ct white gold, 18ct yellow gold and 18ct rose gold. We hand-set IGI certified lab-grown diamonds across all standard shapes. Round, princess, cushion, emerald, pear, oval, radiant, asscher and marquise. From 0.3ct accent stones to centre stones of 10ct and above.
Do you make wedding bands and other jewellery?
Yes. Alongside engagement rings we make wedding bands, pendants, necklaces, earrings and one-of-a-kind bespoke pieces.
What happens after I approve the CAD design?
A high-resolution 3D printed model in resin is produced within a week. You hold it, try it on, and confirm proportions, comfort and detailing. Only after written approval does the piece move into casting.
Are revisions included?
Yes. Revisions are a natural part of the bespoke process. There are no per-revision charges within reason.
Where are you based and how do consultations work?
London, United Kingdom. Consultations are by appointment only. In person at our private studio, by video, or by email. Initial consultations are complimentary.
Do you ship internationally?
We deliver across the UK by insured courier. International delivery is available by arrangement; clients outside the UK handle their own import duties.
How do I care for my diamond ring?
Wash with warm water, washing-up liquid and a soft toothbrush. Avoid heavy manual work, lotions and chlorinated pools. Bring the piece back once a year for a professional clean and setting check. Included indefinitely.
What is the cancellation and refund policy?
Cancel within 2 days of first payment for a full refund. Cancel after 2 days and 70% of the deposit is refunded; the remainder covers design time and production allocation already committed.
Contact
Email: info@truce.diamonds
WhatsApp: +44 7988 479869
London, United Kingdom
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