Education

How Big Is a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 Carat Diamond? Actual Sizes in Millimeters

Carat is weight, not size. Here are the real face-up millimeter measurements of round brilliant diamonds from 1 to 5 carats, and how shape changes how big a diamond looks.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds? An NYC Jeweler's Honest Answer

Yes — chemically, physically, and optically, lab-grown diamonds are diamonds. A NYC Diamond District jeweler explains what's identical, what's different, and how certification protects you.

How to Verify Your IGI Certificate (and What the Laser Inscription Means)

Every certified Zack & Elle diamond comes with an IGI report and a laser-inscribed stone ID. Here's how to look up your report online and confirm your diamond matches it.

Martini vs Basket Setting: Which Diamond Stud Setting Is Right for You?

The two classic diamond stud settings compared — how martini and basket settings differ in look, comfort, and security, and how to choose between push backs and screw backs.

Lab-Grown Diamond Price Guide: What 1 to 5 Carats Actually Costs (2026)

Real 2026 prices for IGI-certified lab-grown diamond rings and studs from 1 to 5+ carats — and why buying direct from the maker changes the math.

Diamond Shapes Explained: Round, Oval, Cushion & Emerald

A quick guide to the most popular diamond shapes — round, oval, cushion, and emerald — and how to choose the one that's right for you.

IGI vs. GIA Certification: What It Means for Your Lab-Grown Diamond

IGI and GIA are the two leading diamond grading labs. Here's how they differ for lab-grown diamonds, and why IGI is the standard most trusted retailers use.

1, 2, or 3 Carat Diamond Studs: How Each Size Looks on the Ear

A practical size guide to lab-grown diamond stud earrings — how 1, 2, and 3 carat total weight actually look and wear, with the real millimeter measurements.

Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: A 2026 Price Comparison

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds but cost roughly 70–85% less. Here's how the prices actually compare in 2026, and why.

Certification- The 5th C

Certification is proof of a diamond’s 4C’s grading. Although many diamonds look the same, they are not all going to be of equal quality. Diamond certification is the written proof of a diamo...