Editor’s Note
This article explores the rising popularity of lab-grown diamonds among Gen Z consumers, highlighting their appeal as a sustainable and affordable alternative to natural stones.
In recent years, “Lab-Grown Diamonds (Synthetic Diamonds)” have been gaining attention as a new jewelry choice, particularly among environmentally conscious Gen Z. Synthetic diamonds, possessing the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, are valued for being more sustainable and offered at more accessible price points, earning strong support from fashion-savvy younger generations.
Numerous “Synthetic Diamonds” that are attracting Gen Z will be exhibited at the “TOKYO JEWELRY FES ’25 Summer” held at Tokyo Big Sight from August 1 (Fri) to 3 (Sun), 2025.
Lab-grown diamonds are artificially cultivated in labs (laboratories), eliminating the need for underground mining. This results in significantly less environmental impact and is free from human rights issues associated with mining labor.
Their scientific, physical, and chemical properties are completely identical to natural diamonds. They are also evaluated and certified by third-party institutions (e.g., GIA), making them indistinguishable even to professional eyes.
Lab-grown diamonds can often be acquired at prices about 30-50% lower compared to natural diamonds.
In the jewelry market, where natural diamonds have traditionally been dominant, synthetic diamonds are emerging as a new choice, increasing their presence even in department store jewelry sections. Their diverse price points and designs are particularly supported, leading to a growing trend in purchases for gifting and self-jewelry.
“Next Diamond,” a brand based in New York that entered Japan in 2021, has begun pop-up and permanent installations in major department stores nationwide, including Matsuya. With reliable quality and transparent pricing, it is steadily expanding its customer base among ethically conscious consumers, separate from the existing natural diamond customer segment.
The Japanese lab-grown diamond market is projected to grow from USD 511 million in 2024 to USD 2,242.9 million by 2033, with an expected average annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.77% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2033.
TOKYO JEWELRY FES ’25 Summer
Dates: August 1 [Fri] ~ 3 [Sun], 2025, 10:00~18:00 (17:00 on the final day only)
Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, West Exhibition Halls 3 & 4
Organizer: RX Japan Co., Ltd.