Lab-Grown Diamonds Hit 52% Market Share as Prices Drop 42%; “2-Carat” is the New Standard
SHERIDAN, Wyo. – December 18, 2025 – A new industry analysis released today by
LearningJewelry.com indicates a historic “tipping point” in the bridal jewelry market. For the first time, lab-grown diamonds now account for the majority of engagement ring purchases, capturing 52% of the market and officially overtaking natural diamonds as the primary choice for couples.
The 2026 Lab-Grown Ring Price Index, which tracks pricing trends and consumer behavior, reveals that while the average engagement ring budget has remained steady, the “accessibility gap” has widened significantly. This shift has allowed the average center stone size to jump to 2.45 carats, giving buyers nearly double the carat weight for their money compared to just two years ago.
Key Findings from the 2026 Index:
- The “Value” Surge: Wholesale prices for lab-grown diamonds have dropped significantly—in some categories by over 40% year-over-year. This market efficiency allows couples to upgrade cut quality (Ideal/Excellent) without increasing their total spend.
- Size Upgrades: The 2-carat solitaire has replaced the 1-carat stone as the new mass-market standard. The average lab-grown stone size is now 2.45 carats, up from 1.31 carats in 2019.
- Shape Shifting: The reign of the Round Brilliant is being challenged. Oval cuts have surged in popularity, now accounting for 33% of the market and nearly tying with Round cuts (34%).
- Style Shift: Modern buyers are moving toward “Hidden Halo” settings, which offer a subtle profile sparkle compared to traditional top-view halos.
“In 2026, the stigma surrounding lab-grown diamonds has effectively vanished, replaced by a focus on spec-maximization,” says the Lead Analyst at LearningJewelry.com. “Our data shows that couples are no longer asking ‘Is it real?’—they are asking ‘How big can I go for my budget?’ The 1-carat standard that dominated the last decade is dead; the 2-carat era is here.”
The report advises consumers that while wholesale prices have dropped, retail pricing can vary. This discrepancy creates a unique “buyer’s market” where consumers armed with data can negotiate significantly better deals.
Access the Full Report: To view the complete price breakdown by shape and carat weight, visit the full 2026 Lab-Grown Ring Price Index here: https://learningjewelry.com/blog/lab-grown-diamond-engagement-rings/
About LearningJewelry.com: Founded in 2019, LearningJewelry.com is a premier resource for “Jewelry Purchase Knowledge.” Featured in Brides, Bustle, and the International Gem Society, the site provides data-driven, actionable advice, with no fluff, to help consumers buy confidently and avoid common industry pitfalls.
Contact:
Address: 30 N Gould St Ste R Sheridan, WY 82801
Email: contact@learningjewelry.com
Phone: +1 307-218-3711
