The Complete Guide to Holiday Diamond Jewelry Shopping

The holiday season offers endless jewelry shopping options—but with so many choices, how do you know what's right for you? This buying guide walks you through every decision for purchasing jewelry this season, from understanding materials to choosing the perfect style for your lifestyle.

Whether you're a first-time jewelry buyer or a seasoned collector, this guide gives you the knowledge and confidence to shop smart and choose pieces you'll love for years.

Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: Making the Right Choice

When shopping for diamond jewelry during holidays, you'll encounter lab grown and natural (mined) diamonds. Understanding the differences helps you make an informed decision that aligns with your values and budget.

Quick Comparison

The Science Behind Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds are created using High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods. Both replicate the conditions that create natural diamonds deep underground, producing stones that are chemically and optically identical to mined ones.

Real Talk: A gemologist cannot tell the difference between a lab grown and natural diamond without specialized equipment. To the naked eye, they're identical in sparkle, brilliance, and fire.

Why Choose Lab Grown?

Better Value: Lab grown diamonds cost 30-50% less than mined ones of comparable quality. You can either save thousands or invest in a larger, more impressive diamond at the same price.

A 2-carat lab grown diamond might cost the same as a 0.5-carat mined diamond. That's a significant sparkle for your budget.

Ethical Peace of Mind: Lab grown diamonds eliminate concerns about conflict diamonds and unethical mining. They are created in controlled facilities with transparent supply chains.

Environmental Responsibility: Mining diamonds disrupts ecosystems, uses massive water, and generates significant carbon emissions. Lab grown diamonds have a much lower environmental footprint.

Modern Trend: By 2025, lab grown diamonds have become the preferred choice. Over 50% of couples choose them for engagement rings—it's the smart, modern choice.

Certification & Authenticity: Lab grown diamonds have the same GIA or IGI certification as mined diamonds, confirming their quality, authenticity, and specifications.

Why Prefer Mined Diamonds

Established Resale Value: Mined diamonds have a longer history in the resale market, though values for both types are modest.

Tradition: Some prefer mined diamonds for their historical significance and traditional appeal.

Perception: Though changing, some still perceive mined diamonds as more "valuable" due to marketing and tradition.

Pro Tip: Michael Gabriels specializes in lab grown diamond jewelry. Our diamonds are *certified, beautiful, and a smarter investment for modern buyers. Browse our Lab Grown Diamond Collections for options at every price point.

Understanding Your Budget: What You Can Get

When you know what to expect at different price points, jewelry shopping is easier. Here's a breakdown of what you can purchase at each budget level from Michael Gabriels:

Under $500: Quality Entry-Level Pieces

At this price, you have excellent options without compromising quality.

What You Get:

• Beautiful diamond stud earrings (1-1.25 carats) lab grown diamonds.
• Delicate pendant necklaces with smaller diamonds or gemstones.
• Small to medium tennis bracelets with continuous sparkle
• Personalized pieces with simple engravings
• Birthstone jewelry in quality metals

Best For: First-time jewelry buyers, everyday pieces, meaningful gifts on a budget, or building a collection.

Shop: Browse collections of Studs Under $500, Delicate Necklaces, and Small Bracelets.

$500-$1,000: Statement Pieces with Presence

This budget sweet spot offers impressive jewelry that looks luxurious without premium pricing.

What You Get:

• Tennis bracelets with excellent carat weight and sparkle
• Halo engagement-style rings (non-engagement)
• 1.5-2 carat diamond stud earrings
• Larger impact pendant necklaces
• Fashion rings with gemstones and diamonds
• Quality metals (white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, platinum)

Best for significant gifts, engagement rings (lab grown at this price is excellent value), self-care jewelry, and milestones.

Shop: Browse Tennis Collections, Fashion Rings, Statement Necklaces, and Medium Bracelets.

$1,000-$2,500: Luxury Investment Pieces

Jewelry becomes a true investment—pieces you'll wear for decades.

What You Get:

• Larger lab grown diamond necklaces (1.5-2.5 carats) with stunning presence
• Engagement rings with larger center stones
• Designer-quality bracelets and multi-stone pieces
• Custom design services for a unique creation.
• Platinum or premium gold settings
• Heirloom-quality craftsmanship

Best For: Major milestones, engagement rings, pieces, significant anniversaries.

Shop: Browse Luxury Necklaces, Premium Engagement Rings, Designer Bracelets, and inquire about Custom Design Services.

$2,500+: Ultimate Luxury & Heirloom Pieces

At this level, you're investing in exceptional, one-of-a-kind pieces.

What You Get:

• High-carat lab grown diamonds (2+ carats) in stunning settings
• Complete jewelry sets (matching necklace, bracelet, earrings)
• Custom engagement rings with premium materials
• Bespoke, made-to-order pieces tailored to your vision
• Platinum settings with meticulous craftsmanship
• Heirloom pieces to pass down to future generations

Best For: Engagement rings, major anniversaries, timeless pieces, luxury collections.

Shop: Browse Luxury Collections, Premium Engagement Rings, and contact us about Custom Design Services at Support@michaelgabriels.com or +1-845-697-9544.

Tips for Budget Shopping

• Prioritize value: Use this advantage of lab grown diamonds, which offer more sparkle for your budget.
• Consider metal: Platinum costs more than gold, and cheaper metals won't look cheap with the right design.
• Don't inflate your budget: Overspending on jewelry leads to regret. Stick to your budget and choose within your range.
• Remember: More expensive ≠ better-looking. A well-designed $800 piece can look more impressive than a poorly designed $2,000 piece.
• Invest in quality: Choose craftsmanship over quantity within your budget.

Pro Tip: To afford higher-quality pieces, Michael Gabriels offers financing through Affirm and Shop Pay (0-36% APR).

Jewelry Types Explained: Finding Your Perfect Style

Different jewelry types serve different purposes and occasions. Here's what you need to know about each.

Diamond Studs & Earrings

What They Are: Classic diamond or gemstone earrings for everyday wear or special occasions.

Why They're Essential: Diamond studs are the most versatile jewelry pieces. They suit any outfit, hairstyle, and occasion. They're professional enough for the office and elegant for formal events.

What to Know:

• Available in carat weights (0.5 to 6+ carats)
• Come in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, platinum.
• Certified and guaranteed, quality diamonds are.
• Perfect for first-time jewelry buyers, the pieces are elegant, timeless, and universally loved.

Price Range: $400-$1,800+

Shop: Browse Diamond Studs Collection for options at every price point.

Tennis Bracelets & Necklaces

What They Are: Bracelets or necklaces with a continuous line of diamonds or gemstones, typically with "tennis" settings that hold stones securely.

Why They're Trending: In 2025, tennis jewelry is trending because it's elegant, sparkly, and suits casual and formal occasions. The continuous diamond line creates a serious visual impact.

What to Know:

• Available in various lengths and carat weights
• The settings hold stones securely, and they are more durable than they look.
• Works for everyday wear or special occasions.
• Instantly elevates any outfit with luxury sparkle.
• Lab grown diamonds make tennis jewelry affordable.

Price Range: $500-$3,000+

Shop: Browse Tennis Bracelet and Necklace Collections.

Pendant Necklaces

What They Are: A single stone or design hanging from a delicate chain.

Why They're Versatile: Pendant necklaces suit any age, style, and occasion. Wear them layered for a trendy look, or alone for classic elegance.

What to Know:

• Available in countless designs (solitaire, halo, geometric, personalized)
• Works with any metal and can be dressed up or down.
• Perfect for meaningful gifts. You can personalize with engravings or initials.
• Delicate chains are minimalist and chic.
• Bold pendants make powerful statements.

Price Range: $300-$2,500+

Shop: Browse Pendant Necklaces, Delicate Chains, and Statement Pendants.

Rings (Fashion, Cocktail, Statement)

What They Are: Decorative rings for style and self-expression (not engagement/wedding).

Why They Matter: Rings are personal statements. A beautiful ring draws attention to your hands and elevates your look.

What to Know:

• Available in countless styles (geometric, vintage-inspired, bold, minimal)
• Can feature diamonds, gemstones, or mixed materials.
• Work for everyday wear or special occasions
• Correct sizing is crucial for comfort.
• Can be personalized with engravings.

Price Range: $300-$3,000+

Shop: Browse Fashion, Cocktail, Statement, and Personalized Rings.

Bracelets (Beyond Tennis)

What They Are: Bracelets, worn on the wrist, range from delicate to bold, minimalist to statement-making.

Why They're Essential: Bracelets draw attention to your wrists and hands. They look great worn alone or stacked.

What to Know:

• Available in various styles (link, beaded, bangle, flexible)
• Correct sizing is important for comfort.
• Can be mixed and matched for layered looks.
• Work for all occasions
• Lab grown diamond bracelets offer luxury at accessible prices.

Price Range: $400-$2,500+

Shop: Browse Diamond, Designer, Link, and Layering Bracelets.

Personalized & Custom Jewelry

What They Are: Customized jewelry—with engravings, birthstones, monograms, or unique designs.

Why They're Meaningful: Personalized jewelry is special. It can commemorate important moments or people and say, "I chose this for you."

What to Know:

• I can personalize almost any jewelry type.
• Options include engravings, birthstones, monograms, and custom designs.
• The made-to-order process takes 2 weeks.
• Perfect for meaningful gifts or milestone pieces.
• Michael Gabriels specializes in customization.

Price Range: $300-$3,000+

Shop: Browse Personalized Jewelry or contact Custom Design Services.

Metals & Customization: Choosing What's Right for You

The metal you choose affects your jewelry's appearance, feel, and performance. Here's what to know about each option.

White Gold

What It Is: Pure gold combined with white metals (palladium, nickel, silver) and finished with a rhodium coating for brightness.

Appearance: Sleek, modern, silvery-bright finish; clean and contemporary look.

Best For:

• Colorless diamonds (make them appear brighter)
• Contemporary designs
• Cool or neutral skin tones can wear it (though anyone can wear it).
• Minimalist jewelry
• Mixed metal pieces

Durability: Very durable; same as yellow gold.

Maintenance: For optimal brightness, rhodium coating may need reapplication every few years.

Cost: Generally more expensive than yellow gold due to alloy metals and rhodium coating.

Popular Karats: 14k (58.3% gold) or 18k (75% gold)

Yellow Gold

What It Is: Pure gold mixed with copper and silver to strengthen it while preserving its warm, golden tone.

Appearance: A warm, buttery, classic golden hue; traditional and timeless.

Best For:

• Colored gemstones (sapphires, emeralds, rubies)
• Vintage-inspired heirloom designs
• Warm or golden skin tones can wear it (though anyone can wear it).
• Classic and traditional styles
• Those who prefer a warmer tone

Durability: Very durable; same as white gold.

Maintenance: It doesn't require reapplication like white gold and retains its color naturally.

Cost: Generally cheaper than white gold or platinum.

Popular Karats: 14k (58.3% gold) or 18k (75% gold)

Rose Gold

What It Is: Pure gold combined with copper for a romantic, pinkish tone.

Appearance: A warm, romantic, pinkish-gold finish; trendy and unique.

Best For:

• Those seeking alternatives to traditional white/yellow gold.
• Romantic, vintage-inspired designs
• Anyone who loves the warm blush tone.
• Mixed metal pieces
• Engagement rings and fashion jewelry

Durability: Very durable; same as white and yellow gold.

Maintenance: Copper content may fade slightly over time but retains its character.

Cost: Similar to white gold; more expensive than yellow gold.

Popular Karats: 14k (58.3% gold) or 18k (75% gold)

Platinum

What It Is: A precious metal that is naturally silver-white, dense, and durable.

Appearance: A luxurious, silvery-white finish that gives a premium, high-end look.

Best For:

• Engagement rings and precious pieces
• Those seeking maximum durability
• Secure diamond settings (platinum's strength holds stones securely)
• Anyone with nickel allergies or sensitivities
• Investment pieces

Durability: Most durable precious metal; it won't wear thin with daily use.

Maintenance: The material develops a natural patina over time but stays beautiful and doesn't require recoating.

Cost: The most expensive precious metal; 30% heavier than gold.

Why Choose It: For decades, platinum has been unmatched in security and durability for engagement rings and everyday pieces.

Mixed Metals

What They Are: Jewelry combining two or more metals (e.g., white and rose gold, or yellow gold and platinum).

Why They're Trending: 2025's hottest trend is mixing metals. It's modern, unexpected, and coordinates with all your existing jewelry.

What to Know:

• When metals are mixed intentionally, it works beautifully.
• Offers flexibility. You can coordinate with white or yellow gold pieces.
• Contemporary and fashion-forward
• Available in many designs by Michael Gabriel.

Shop: Browse Mixed Metal Collections or inquire about Custom Design to mix metals.

Customization Options

• Michael Gabriels specializes in customization. Here's what you can personalize:
• Engravings: Add initials, names, dates, or messages inside rings and bracelets.
• Birthstone Additions: Include birthstones to make jewelry personal and meaningful.
• Metal Selection: Choose your preferred metal (white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, platinum).
• Stone Selection: Choose diamond carat weight, color, and clarity for your piece.
• Design Modifications: Modify existing designs or create something custom.
• Contact for Custom Design: Email Support@michaelgabriels.com or call +1-845-697-9544 to discuss your custom piece.

Production Timelines & Delivery: Plan Ahead

Understanding production and shipping timelines helps you get your jewelry on time, especially during the holidays.

Michael Gabriel’s Production Timeline

Michael Gabriels creates each piece made-to-order, crafted specifically for you after you order.

Standard Production Time: 2 weeks (14 days)

What This Includes:

• Finalization of design
• Material sourcing
• Crafting and assembly by skilled jewelers
• Quality inspection
• Packaging and shipment preparation

During Peak Seasons (November-December):

• Production times may extend slightly due to high order volume.
• Order early for timely delivery.

Shipping Options & Timeline

Michael Gabriels ships exclusively to the United States and Canada via FedEx.

Shipping Methods:

Free Shipping: Orders over $300 qualify for free standard shipping.

Order-to-Delivery Timeline:

• Order placed: Today
• Production: 1-2 weeks
• Shipping (FedEx Two-Day): 2 business days
• Total time: ~18-19 days

Holiday Shipping Deadlines (December 2025)

Order by these dates to receive your jewelry before Christmas 2025:

Important: These dates assume production completes within 2 weeks. Order earlier to allow for peak season delays.

Pro Tip: If you need jewelry by Christmas and it's mid-December, contact Support@michaelgabriels.com or +1-845-697-9544 to discuss rush options.

International Shipping (Canada)

• The production timeline is the same (2 weeks).
• FedEx International services
• Shipping speeds similar to USA orders
• All orders are insured and tracked.

For inquiries, contact Support@michaelgabriels.com or +1-845-697-9544.

Tracking Your Order

We will reach out to you to confirm the most secure method of shipping that is most convenient for you and will keep you updated with our in house service teams.

What If There Are Delays?

• Production delays: Contact Michael Gabriels at Support@michaelgabriels.com or +1-845-697-9544
• Shipping delays: Contact FedEx with your tracking number.
• Damage during shipment: Report damage immediately with photos.

Care & Maintenance: Keep Your Jewelry Beautiful Forever

Proper care keeps your jewelry beautiful and sparkly for a lifetime. Here's what you need to know.

Best Practices

Remove Jewelry in These Situations:

• During exercise or physical activity, it prevents damage and loss.
• While swimming, chlorine can damage settings.
• When showering or bathing
• While applying lotions, perfumes, or cosmetics
• During household cleaning with harsh chemicals

Why: Everyday activities—lotions, soaps, dirt, sweat—accumulate on jewelry and dull its sparkle. Removing it during these times prevents damage and keeps it clean longer.

Cleaning Diamond Jewelry at Home

Lab grown and natural diamonds require the same care. Here's the cleaning process:

What You Need:

• Mild liquid dish soap
• Warm water (not hot)
• Soft-bristled toothbrush or soft cloth
• Lint-free drying

Cleaning Steps:

1. Mix Solution: In a bowl, combine mild dish soap with warm water.
2. Soak your jewelry in soapy water for 20-30 minutes to loosen dirt and oils.
3. Gently Scrub: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush the diamond, setting, and back of the piece. Pay extra attention to areas where dirt accumulates.
4. Rinse thoroughly under clean running water. Use a small sink strainer to prevent losing jewelry.
5. Dry completely with a soft, lint-free cloth.
6. Inspect: Look for loose stones or damage.

Frequency: Clean your jewelry monthly for regular wear, more often if worn daily.

What NOT to Do

Avoid These Common Mistakes:

• Don't use ultrasonic cleaners. They can loosen settings, especially for vintage or delicate pieces.
• Don't use steam cleaners. Steam pressure can loosen stones.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Don't use bleach, chlorine, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners—they can damage diamonds and settings.
• Avoid toothpaste or baking soda because they're abrasive and can scratch metals and settings.
• Don't soak overnight. Extended soaking can weaken some settings.
• Avoid boiling water: Extreme temperatures can damage settings and stones.

Storage & Protection

Proper Storage Prevents Damage:

• Separate compartments: Store each piece in a separate soft cloth bag or jewelry box compartment to prevent scratching.
• Avoid tangling by keeping necklaces and bracelets separated to prevent it and damage.
• Soft surfaces: Store on soft materials (cloth, velvet) not hard surfaces.
• Avoid moisture: Store in a dry location to prevent tarnishing and corrosion.
• Temperature: Keep jewelry away from extreme heat or cold.
• Safe location: Store in a safe place, such as a bedroom drawer or jewelry box, rather than near a window or door.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Annual Professional Inspection:

Even with perfect home care, professional inspection catches issues early:

• Professional jeweler cleaning uses specialized equipment and is more thorough than home cleaning.
• Setting inspection: Jewelers check for loose stones before they fall out.
• Metal inspection: Checking for wear, thinning, or damage
• Warranty: All Michael Gabriels pieces include a 1-year warranty for manufacturing defects.

Contact Michael Gabriels for cleaning, inspection, or warranty service at Support@michaelgabriels.com or +1-845-697-9544.

Warranty Coverage

What's Included in Michael Gabriels' 1-Year Warranty:

• Manufacturing defects (loose stones, broken settings, etc.)
• Free professional inspection
• Ring resizing (one free resize within the first year on eligible items)
• Professional cleaning

What's NOT Covered:

• Damage from accidents, falls, or impacts
• Damage from harsh chemicals or improper care
• Normal wear and tear
• Damage from unauthorized repairs

Claim: Contact Support@michaelgabriels.com or +1-845-697-9544 with your order number and issue photos.

The Michael Gabriels Difference: Why Shop Here

When investing in diamond jewelry during the holiday, choosing the right retailer matters as much as choosing the piece. Here's what sets Michael Gabriels apart.

Expert Specialization in Lab Grown Diamonds

Michael Gabriels specializes in lab grown diamond jewelry. This specialization means:

• Deep expertise: Our team understands lab grown diamonds inside and out.
• Only certified stones: All diamonds are GIA-graded and certified for authenticity and quality.
• Honest education: We educate customers about lab grown advantages (30-50% savings, ethical sourcing, sustainability)
• Better value: As specialists in lab grown products, we offer unbeatable pricing compared to traditional retailers.

Quality Craftsmanship

Skilled jewelers make every piece made-to-order:

• Hand-crafted: Pieces aren't mass-produced; they're created specifically for you.
• Attention to detail: Master jewelers ensure every detail is perfect.
• Quality metals: We use 14k, 18k gold, and platinum—no cheap alloys.
• Secure settings: Lab grown diamonds are set securely to last forever.

Affordable Luxury

Lab grown diamonds make luxury accessible:

• 30-50% savings: Compare our prices to traditional retailers.
• Financing: Shop Pay and Affirm (0-36% APR) make luxury more attainable.
• Free shipping: Orders over $300 ship free
• No hidden fees: What you see is what you pay.

Customization & Personalization

• Custom design services: Create unique pieces
• Engravings: Personalize with names, initials, or meaningful dates
• Birthstone additions: Make jewelry personal and meaningful
• Metal selection: Choose your preferred metal for any design.
• Made-to-order: Each piece is created for your vision.

Customer Service & Support

• Responsive team: You can reach them at Support@michaelgabriels.com or +1-845-697-9544.
• Expert guidance: Help with sizing, selections, questions
• Warranty: 1-year on all pieces
• Lifetime relationship: After your purchase, we're here.

9 Curated Collections

Browse jewelry by style and occasion:

• Diamond Studs: Carat weights and prices
• Tennis Jewelry: Bracelets and necklaces trending in 2025
• Engagement Rings: Custom and ready designs
• Necklaces: Pendants, delicate chains, statement pieces
• Bracelet styles: Tennis, link, layering, and personalized
• Rings: Fashion, cocktail, and statement designs
• Earrings: Studs, hoops, and drop styles
• Men's Jewelry: Bracelets, chains, and rings
• Personalized Jewelry: Custom engravings and bespoke designs

Browse Collections: Visit michaelgabriels.com to explore.

Why Lab Grown Matters in 2025

• Now, more than 50% of couples choose lab grown engagement rings.
• Millennials and Gen Z prefer lab grown diamonds to mined diamonds.
• Modern jewelry buyers are increasingly finding ethical sourcing important.
• Sustainability concerns drive demand for lab grown options.
• Better value makes luxury jewelry accessible.

Shopping lab grown at Michael Gabriels is a smart, modern, ethical choice.Find Your Perfect Piece Today.

You now have the knowledge to shop confidently for jewelry, whether for yourself, as a gift, or as an engagement piece.

Next Steps:

• Determine Your Budget: Know your spending limit.
• Choose your metal: white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum.
• Select Your Type: studs, necklaces, bracelets, rings, or custom pieces.
• Browse Collections: Explore 9 curated collections
• Customize: Add engravings, choose birthstones, or design something custom.
• Place Your Order: Production takes ~2 weeks, so plan accordingly.
• Care for Your Jewelry: Follow our guide to keep it beautiful forever

Browse by Collection:

• Diamond Studs Collection - Timeless elegance at every price point
• Tennis Jewelry - Trending bracelets and necklaces
• Engagement Rings - Lab grown diamonds for the perfect proposal
• Necklaces - Pendants, chains, and statement pieces
• Bracelets - Tennis, link, layering, and personalized styles
• Rings - Fashion, cocktail, and statement designs
• Men's Jewelry - Bracelets, chains, and rings

Get Help:

• Email: Support@michaelgabriels.com
• Phone: +1-845-697-9544
• Online: Visit michaelgabriels.com

Shop With Confidence. Michael Gabriels is your partner in finding beautiful, affordable, ethical lab grown diamond jewelry you'll love forever.

Ready to find your perfect piece? Start exploring Michael Gabriels today.

Visit michaelgabriels.com to browse our collections or contact our team for personalized guidance.