While diamonds may be a “girl’s best friend”, they aren’t so kind to the planet, as mining for them has a significant environmental impact.
For context, just one carat of diamonds causes up to 3.1 tonnes of earth displacement and requires 8.9 litres of fuel consumption. The ethical implications are equally as significant, as diamond mining can lead to the displacement of both people and wildlife.
These concerns have led to growing demand for artificial alternatives – with nearly 70 per cent of millennials and Generation Z now considering lab-grown stones.
One of the first major jewellery brands to pledge changes to its business and mining practices was Pandora, when it announced last year that it plans to become entirely carbon neutral by 2025. The Danish company has now revealed that it will only be using diamonds manufactured in labs going forward, as well as avoiding newly mined silver and gold in its jewellery.
As part of this pledge, Pandora has announced its first sustainably lab-created diamonds collection, launching on 6 May with prices starting from £250. From rings and earrings to necklaces and bracelets, the pieces in the collection range from 0.25 to one carat and are set only in noble metals, including yellow gold, white gold and sterling silver.
The move is a step in the right direction, as the brand’s carbon emissions are set to be cut by two thirds for silver production and more than 99 per cent for gold. Importantly, Pandora’s lab-grown stones are said to carry all the same qualities as diamonds, meaning the gems are aesthetically and physically identical to the real deal. The brand will achieve this by using technology where a hydrogen gas mixture is heated to 800C to replicate the process under the earth.
“The need for sustainable business practices is only becoming more important, and companies must do their part in response to the climate crisis and the depletion of natural resources,” Pandora’s CEO, Alexander Lacik, adds.
But do they really look and feel as good as the real thing? We got access to the collection ahead of the launch to find out. Reviewing everything from quality and design to style and cost, read on to find our favourite pieces below.
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Pandora Brilliance sparkling teardrop chain bracelet in gold with 0.50 carat
Great for everyday wear, this delicate bracelet is made up of a partly recycled gold chain and a single lab-created diamond gem that’s set in a teardrop shape. Perfect for taking you from daytime into evening, the simple chain bracelet will add a touch of shimmer to your look. With two holes for adjustments, it’s a comfortable and customisable fit too. While Pandora’s contemporary styles have won popularity with Generation Z, the more classic designs in the “brilliance” collection might cement it with others, too.
Pandora Brilliance pendant & necklace in gold with 0.25 carat
All the items in the collection have an infinity motif around the diamond, with this necklace complementing the gold bracelet above. Made from partly recycled gold, the 0.25 carat diamond stone set in a twisted teardrop silhouette refracted the light to the same effect as our traditional diamond necklace – with the lab process replicating the crystal lattice-like structure of mined diamonds.
Pandora Brilliance open bangle in white gold 0.25 carat
There’s something timeless about a bangle, whether stacked for a bohemian feel or worn alone. This Pandora style boasts a contemporary silhouette, is easily adjustable, simple to clasp on and comfortable to wear. The band is crafted from partly recycled white gold which is elevated by the lab-created 0.25 diamond jewel, set in a twisted infinity motif design.
Pandora Brilliance sparkling teardrop chain bracelet with 0.1 carat
The least pricey piece in the new collection, this bracelet is crafted from partly recycled sterling silver with the added detailing of a 0.1 carat jewel set in a subtle teardrop silhouette. The dainty chain felt light on our arm and complimented other pieces when layered up. A more affordable route into lab-created diamonds, this will make a lovely gift for someone as their first fine jewellery piece or a treat to yourself on payday.
