Best Places to Buy Lab Created Diamonds Online (2026 Rankings)

Buying a lab diamond online is safe, if you use a vetted vendor. The danger isn't "fake" diamonds. The danger is poorly cut diamonds or stones with "blue nuance" (a tell-tale sign of cheap HPHT manufacturing) that don't sparkle correctly.

We reviewed the top vendors on:

1. Imaging (Can you see the stone?)
2. Certification (Do they use IGI or GIA?)
3. Return Policy (Is it hassle-free?)

1. James Allen (The Best Overall)

Owned by Signet (the largest jewelry company in the world), James Allen standardized the online buying experience.

• Why they win: 360° HD Video. You can spin every single diamond in 40x magnification. You can see inclusions that aren't even on the map.
• Shop: Shop Lab Diamonds at James Allen
• Inventory: Massive.
• Certifications: IGI and GIA.
• Return Policy: 30 Days, free shipping both ways.

2. Blue Nile (The Most Trusted)

The original online jeweler.

• Why they win: Trust. They have physical showrooms in many malls now where you can get your ring cleaned or inspected. Their "Astor Ideal" cut lab diamonds are top-tier.
• Shop: Shop Blue Nile Lab Diamonds
• Pros: Exceptional packaging and "unboxing" experience.

3. Clean Origin (The Lab Specialist)

Unlike the others who sell both, Clean Origin only sells lab grown.

• Why they win: 100-Day Return Policy. This is unheard of. You have over 3 months to decide.
• Shop: Shop Clean Origin Lab Diamonds
• Pricing: Very aggressive. Often slightly cheaper than JA/BN for similar specs.
• Selection: Excellent collection of "ready to ship" items if you are in a rush.

4. Ritani (The Transparent Disrupter)

Ritani operates differently. They list loose stones with razor-thin margins and show you the cost breakdown.

• The "Free In-Store Preview": They will ship a loose diamond to a local partner jeweler near you so you can see it in person before you pay.
• Shop: Shop Ritani Loose Lab Diamonds
• Price: Often the absolute cheapest for loose stones.

5. Brilliant Earth (The Brand Name)

Huge social media presence and focus on "sustainability."

• Why they win: Setting Designs. They have the trendiest, most nature-inspired twig and vine settings.
• Shop: Shop Brilliant Earth Lab Diamonds
• Cons: Slightly higher premiums for the brand name. Customer service can be slower than James Allen.

The "Blue Nuance" Warning

Some cheaper Lab Diamonds (usually HPHT method) have a faint blue glow or "fuzziness" due to boron impurities.

• How to avoid it:
  1. Stick to CVD process diamonds where possible (often noted on the cert).
  2. LOOK at the 360-video. If it looks "steely" or grey-blue instead of crisp white, skip it.
  3. Buy from James Allen or Blue Nile, who filter out the worst offenders.

Summary

• For the Control Freak: James Allen. (Inspect everything).
• For the Indecisive: Clean Origin. (100 day returns).
• For the Bargain Hunter: Ritani. (Lowest loose stone price).

Start your search at James Allen to set the benchmark.