Stephanie Gottlieb, a renowned designer in the jewelry industry, has recently made a significant shift in her perspective on lab-grown diamonds. This change comes as prices for these diamonds have become more competitive, allowing Gottlieb to create two innovative capsule collections that showcase her unique design philosophy. These collections, 'Casual Carats' and 'Lola', are a testament to her evolving views on lab-grown diamonds and their potential in the fashion jewelry market.
A Shift in Perspective
In the past, Gottlieb was skeptical about the value proposition of lab-grown diamonds, believing they didn't justify their price. However, with the market's evolution and the decreasing prices, her stance has transformed. She now sees lab-grown diamonds as a means to offer her clients a wider range of options, especially those seeking wearable, fashion-forward pieces that can be enjoyed in everyday life.
"I've always aimed to provide my clients with the best options for their celebrations. My perspective has shifted as the market has evolved, and I now believe lab-grown diamonds can offer a unique and exciting experience for those who want to express themselves through jewelry," Gottlieb explained in an email to National Jeweler.
Creative Freedom and Wearability
The 'Casual Carats' collection embodies Gottlieb's new approach to lab-grown diamonds. It features flexible silicone bands that are not only comfortable but also durable and colorful. These bands are designed to be worn in various settings, from the gym to the beach, making the jewelry pieces versatile and accessible. The collection includes 20 rings in a range of vibrant and muted silicone band colors, each featuring real diamonds set in 14-karat yellow gold.
"As a designer, the freedom to experiment with scale, construction, and techniques that are not feasible with natural diamonds is truly exciting. It's about understanding the unique qualities of each material and designing accordingly," Gottlieb said, emphasizing the creative freedom lab-grown diamonds offer.
The 'Lola' collection takes a different approach, focusing on the diamonds themselves. It features drilled lab-grown diamonds that appear to float on the skin, creating a light, airy, and modern aesthetic. This collection includes four necklaces, three earrings, and a ring, all crafted with minimal 14-karat yellow or white gold.
The Future of Elevated Fashion Jewelry
Gottlieb's decision to incorporate lab-grown diamonds into her brand is a strategic move that aligns with her vision of creating jewelry that is meant to be lived in, not just saved for special occasions. She believes that lab-grown diamonds allow her to design pieces that are lighter, more playful, and experimental while preserving natural diamonds for timeless moments.
"We want to create jewelry that people can enjoy in their daily lives, not just for special occasions. Lab-grown diamonds enable us to design pieces that feel lighter, more playful, and experimental, while still preserving the timeless beauty of natural diamonds," Gottlieb stated, highlighting the dual purpose of her new collections.
A Step Towards Accessibility
Gottlieb's journey into the world of lab-grown diamonds began with her 'All Hours' collaboration with Oak and Luna in September 2025, where she introduced silver designs with moissanite accents. This move was aimed at attracting a younger demographic with more affordable price points during a period of high gold prices. The success of this collaboration has encouraged Gottlieb to continue exploring new avenues, with additional lab-grown diamond collections scheduled for debut in September.
The response to the 'Casual Carats' and 'Lola' collections has been incredibly positive, indicating that Gottlieb's shift in perspective is well-received by her audience. As she continues to innovate and experiment with lab-grown diamonds, the future of elevated fashion jewelry looks set to be shaped by her unique vision and commitment to offering her clients the best options for their celebrations.
