Today, more consumers are adopting conscious habits when it comes to shopping. There is greater emphasis on shopping ethically in a way that minimizes harm to the planet. In the jewellery industry, there has been an increasing shift to lab grown gemstones. According to Statista, lab-grown diamonds are on the rise, and is predicted to make up 10% of the global diamond market by 2030. With fashion expanding to include a conversation about the exploitation faced by workers at different parts of the supply chain, it has only propelled the search for conscious and ethical alternatives. Basma Chaieri, founder of Etika Jewels, a sustainable Dubai - based jewellery has been at the forefront of this change within the region.

There are quite a few reasons as to why more and more individuals are investing in sustainable gems. Primarily, mining diamonds lead to air pollution, water pollution, and destruction of surrounding natural habitats. 250 tons of earth are moved using massive amounts of fossil fuel energy per carat of mined diamond, whilst also releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere according to the International Gemological Society. With growing concern about climate change, more individuals would prefer to opt for sustainable alternatives. A lab grown diamond is identical to a mined diamond in every way – except in the way that they are sourced. Apart from the environmental costs of diamond mining, there are also ethical costs such as worker exploitation, among others. Lab-created diamonds and gemstones ensure that this is eliminated by using technology, as well ensuring that workers are compensated fairly.
Therefore, it is no surprise that lab grown gemstones are making a mark on the jewellery industry, with more couples opting for lab grown diamond rings, lab grown jewellery making appearances on red carpets around the world, and more a-listers opting for lab grown gems. According to the Business of Fashion, lab-grown diamonds made up 10% of diamond sales in 2022.
Etika Jewels has been leading the charge towards ethical gems, with the brand noting a double-digit growth, as compared to 2022. Earlier this year, the brand partnered up with California based Diamond manufacturer The Diamond Foundry to offer diamonds free from carbon emissions, one of the first jewellery brands in the UAE to do so. The brand strives for innovation in the field of sustainable jewellery and remains committed to do so by utilizing the newest technological advancements in creating lab grown gems.
"Today more consumers are opting for a fashionable alternative that also puts the planet first, and a way to symbolize not just love but their values and it is very evident that this rise of lab grown gemstones show no signs of stopping." Says Basma Chaieri, founder of Etika Jewels. "Lab grown gems have emerged as a conscious yet fashionable alternative in the realm of fine jewellery, as more individuals aim to invest in products that align with their values and are made keeping the planet in mind" she adds.