Charles & Colvard Embraces Lab-Grown Diamonds

RAPAPORT... Charles & Colvard, the producer of synthetic-moissanite jewelry, has launched a line of bridal and fashion pieces featuring lab-grown diamonds."There is a growing awareness of and demand for lab-created gems," Don O'Connell, the company's CEO, said last week. "We believe this addition will allow us to tap into the estimated $5.2 billion lab-created diamond opportunity, thus capturing greater market share."The new brand, Caydia, will feature round brilliant, oval- and cushion-shaped stones in "optimal" carat weights, Charles & Colvard said. The lab-grown diamonds will have Gemological Institute of America (GIA) color grades ranging from E to G, and clarity of VS1 or higher, as well as excellent cut, polish and symmetry. All the settings will comprise responsibly sourced precious metals, including 14-karat gold, 18-karat gold, and platinum.Like Charles & Colvard's moissanite jewelry, Caydia lab-grown diamonds will be available in engagement rings, wedding bands, earrings, necklaces and bracelets, it added.Image: Jewelry from Charles & Colvard's new line of lab-growndiamonds. (Charles & Colvard)