3 Celebrities Who Wore Lab-Grown Gems to the Red Carpet (And No One Knew)

Diamonds have long been hailed as a fashion enthusiast’s ultimate companion, but the very essence of this cherished gemstone is undergoing a transformation, fueled by innovative and emerging jewelry technologies. Since their debut in the jewelry sector, lab-grown diamonds have revolutionized how both jewelers and consumers perceive and engage in the diamond acquisition process. By employing a synthetic method to create what was once a highly sought-after natural rarity, lab-grown diamonds have made the discovery and purchase of these gems more attainable for a broader audience.

While he has yet to be spotted wearing lab-grown diamonds, Leonardo DiCaprio has become one of the biggest investors in the synthetic jewelry industry. After starring in the film Blood Diamond in 2006, a fictional thriller about the dangers of the diamond mining industry, DiCaprio became a vocal advocate for ethically sourced stones. In 2015, he invested in Diamond Foundry Inc., a San Francisco-based company that uses solar technology to produce lab-grown diamonds.

When Lady Gaga attended the London premiere of A Star is Born in September 2018, she stepped onto the red carpet in a Victorian-inspired Alexander McQueen gown, complete with a ruffled collar and beaded corset. To complete the showstopping look, she wore a pair of ethically-sourced cluster earrings from London-based jewelry designer Anabela Chan. Each Constellation Pearl Earring is made with three freshwater pearls and nine brilliant-cut lab-grown diamonds.

Actress and activist Emma Watson made a statement with her jewelry at the 2018 Academy Awards. When the Harry Potter star attended the Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty, she wore a variety of ethically-sourced and lab-created accessories. Her Vrai & Oro earrings were made from lab-grown diamonds and recycled gold. She also showed off a recycled gold sapphire cuff from Ana Katarina as well as a responsibly-sourced bracelet and ring from Ana Khour.