FAQ
About Lab-Grown Diamonds
What exactly are lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in controlled laboratory conditions using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond formation process. They're grown from a diamond seed using either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) methods.
The result is a diamond that is chemically, physically, and optically identical to a mined diamond — created in weeks rather than billions of years.
Are lab-grown diamonds "real" diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds. Same chemical composition (pure carbon), same crystal structure, same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), same optical properties.
Even professional gemologists need specialised equipment to tell them apart. The Federal Trade Commission and International Gemological Institute both officially recognise lab-grown diamonds as real diamonds.
How much less expensive are they?
Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 40–60% less than equivalent mined diamonds. You can choose a larger, higher-quality stone for the same budget — or save significantly while getting identical beauty and durability.
The price difference isn't about quality. It's about the efficiency of the creation process and the elimination of mining costs.
What's the environmental impact compared to mining?
Lab-grown diamonds have approximately 85% less environmental impact than mined diamonds. Traditional diamond mining displaces roughly 250 tonnes of earth per carat.
Lab-grown diamonds require no mining, create minimal environmental disruption, and use significantly less water. The sustainable choice — especially in eco-conscious Scandinavian markets.
Can anyone tell the difference?
No. Lab-grown diamonds look identical to mined diamonds to the naked eye. Same sparkle, same fire, same brilliance. Even trained jewellers cannot distinguish them without specialised testing equipment.
Do lab-grown diamonds hold their value?
Like all diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are purchased for their beauty and emotional significance rather than as financial investments. Both mined and lab-grown diamonds typically depreciate after purchase.
The real value lies in the moments they represent — and lab-grown diamonds offer that same emotional value at a more accessible price point.
Are they as durable as mined diamonds?
Absolutely. Lab-grown diamonds score 10 on the Mohs scale — exactly the same as mined diamonds. The hardest material on Earth. Perfect for daily wear, designed to last generations.
Quality & Certification
What is IGI certification?
IGI (International Gemological Institute) is one of the world's leading independent gemological laboratories. Every Ashbourne diamond comes with an IGI certificate verifying authenticity and grading cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight.
The certificate number can be verified online at any time — your permanent guarantee of quality.
What quality grades does Ashbourne offer?
Most of our diamonds range from D to G in colour (colourless to near-colourless) and VS1 to SI1 in clarity (very slightly included to slightly included).
The sweet spot where visual perfection meets exceptional value.
What metals do you use?
We work with 14K gold in white, yellow, and rose. All metals are responsibly sourced and crafted to the highest standards. Each setting is engineered to showcase maximum diamond brilliance.
How do I verify my diamond's authenticity?
Every Ashbourne diamond comes with an IGI certificate and a laser-inscribed microscopic serial number that matches the certificate. Verify it anytime on IGI's website.
What's included with my purchase?
Every order includes: IGI certification, luxury presentation box, care instructions, polishing cloth, and warranty documentation. Everything arrives in signature Ashbourne packaging.
Orders & Shipping
How long does delivery take?
Norway: 3–5 business days. Scandinavia & UK: 4–7 business days. EU: 4–8 business days. Rest of world: 7–14 business days.
All orders are fully insured, tracked, and shipped free of charge.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We offer free worldwide shipping on every order. Tracked and insured at no additional cost.
What's your return policy?
Under Norwegian consumer law and the EU Distance Selling Directive, you have the right to cancel within 14 days of receiving your order. Items must be returned unworn in original packaging. Full details on our Returns & Refunds page.
Are there import duties or taxes?
For orders shipped outside Norway, local customs duties or import taxes may apply. These are determined by your country's customs authority and are the responsibility of the recipient. Full details on our Shipping page.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We partner with Klarna for flexible payment options — split your purchase into interest-free instalments. Select Klarna at checkout. Approval is instant for most customers.
Is my payment secure?
Yes. Bank-level SSL encryption. We never store your payment details. All transactions processed through Shopify's secure payment gateway. We accept all major credit cards, Klarna, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Care & Warranty
How do I care for my jewellery?
Clean regularly with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals. Store pieces separately in soft pouches to prevent scratching. We recommend professional cleaning annually.
What warranty do you offer?
All Ashbourne jewellery comes with a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects — loose stones, broken prongs, and craftsmanship issues.
Can rings be resized?
Yes. Most rings can be resized up to 2 sizes up or down. Contact us at hello@ashbourne.no for specific pieces.
Do you offer repair services?
Yes. From cleaning to complex restorations. Warranty repairs are free. Other repairs quoted individually. Contact us for details.
Can I upgrade my diamond later?
Yes. Trade in your Ashbourne diamond for full credit toward a larger stone. The new diamond must be at least 50% more in value. Original IGI certificate required.
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