For millions of Indian families, Dhanteras (10 November 2023) is the most auspicious day of the year to buy something precious, and Diwali (12 November) is the time to give it. Gold has always led the list. Increasingly, though, families are pairing that tradition with something new: laboratory-grown diamond jewellery.

Why lab-grown diamonds fit the festive season

  • Real diamonds: the same carbon crystal as a mined diamond, with the same brilliance and hardness.
  • More for your budget: you can choose a larger stone or a better grade for the same spend.
  • Made in India: most of the world's laboratory-grown diamonds are cut and polished in Gujarat, many of them right here in Surat.
  • A gift that is worn: studs, pendants and bands are worn every day, long after the lights come down.

Popular Diwali buys this year

  • Diamond studs and small drop earrings for daughters and sisters
  • Solitaire and cluster pendants in yellow gold
  • Rings with a round or oval centre stone
  • Tennis-style bracelets for weddings later in the season

Buying tips for Dhanteras

1. Ask for the right words on the bill. The invoice should say "laboratory-grown diamond", with the carat weight, colour and clarity, and the gold purity (for example 18K).
2. Certificates for larger stones. For solitaires of about half a carat and above, ask for an IGI or GIA report and check the report number online.
3. Gold hallmark. Gold jewellery sold in India must carry the BIS hallmark with a HUID code, so look for it.
4. Compare like with like. Two "one-carat" rings can differ a lot in cut, colour and clarity. Read our 4Cs guide before you compare prices.

Order early for custom pieces

Made-to-order jewellery takes time, and the weeks before Diwali are the busiest of the year for Indian workshops. If you want something personalised, place your order well before Dhanteras.

From our family to yours

At Sheladiya Diamond, we cut and polish laboratory-grown diamonds in Surat and make jewellery to order. See designs in our collections or contact us with what you have in mind.

Wishing you a bright, prosperous and safe Diwali.