What does VVS1 clarity mean?
VVS1 stands for Very Very Slightly Included (tier 1). Inclusions are so small they are extremely difficult to locate even under 10× magnification by a trained gemologist. Completely invisible to the naked eye at any carat weight. VVS1 is the highest commercially available clarity grade.
Are your diamonds real?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. They are real diamonds — grown in a controlled environment instead of extracted from the earth. The same carbon crystal structure, the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), the same brilliance and fire. IGI certifies them using the same 4Cs grading system as mined stones.
What is IGI certification?
IGI (International Gemological Institute) is the leading independent grading authority for lab-grown diamonds. Every StudsDirect stone carries an IGI grading report documenting the 4Cs (carat, cut, color, clarity), growth method, and a unique report number laser-inscribed on the girdle. You can verify any stone at igi.org.
Why is every stone VVS1? How is that possible?
Our founder has 20+ years of direct relationships at SEEPZ (Mumbai’s Special Economic Zone for diamond manufacturing). We specify VVS1 clarity and D-E color at the crystal stage — before the stone is cut. Most retailers buy from brokers who aggregate mixed inventory. We source direct, so we control the quality standard from the start.
What color grade are your diamonds?
D-E color on every stone. D and E are the top two colorless grades on the GIA/IGI scale. In normal viewing conditions and settings, D and E are indistinguishable. We guarantee D-E minimum — not the G-H "near-colorless" ranges that other lab-grown retailers call premium.
Are your settings real gold?
Yes — 14K solid gold on every piece. That’s 58.3% pure gold alloy. Not gold-plated, not gold-filled, not gold vermeil. Solid gold that won’t peel, won’t fade, won’t turn green. Available in white, yellow, or rose gold depending on the piece.
How long does shipping take?
Most orders ship within 3–5 business days. Custom orders or larger carat weights may take 7–10 business days. All orders ship with tracking and insurance. Delivery is via USPS Priority or UPS depending on the order value. Free shipping on all US orders.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return window from delivery. Items must be in original, unworn condition with all packaging and IGI certification. Contact us at mark@studsdirect.com to initiate a return. Refunds are processed within 5–7 business days after we receive the item.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. We offer buy-now-pay-later options through Shop Pay Installments at checkout. Split your purchase into 4 interest-free payments. For larger orders, additional financing options may be available — contact us for details.
How do I verify my diamond is authentic?
Two ways: (1) Take your piece to any jeweler — they can read the laser-inscribed IGI report number on the girdle under 10× magnification and match it to your certificate. (2) Enter the report number at igi.org to pull the full certificate data online. Takes about 90 seconds.
What is the Founders Circle?
The Founders Circle is our equity program — the only one of its kind in the jewelry industry. Qualifying customers can earn a genuine equity stake in StudsDirect. It’s not a loyalty program or points system. It’s real ownership. Learn more at studsdirect.com/pages/founders-circle.
Do you sell engagement rings?
Yes. We carry solitaire rings, hidden halo rings, and classic band styles — all with VVS1 lab-grown diamonds in 14K solid gold. Browse our full ring collection at studsdirect.com/collections/rings.
How are lab-grown diamonds made?
Lab-grown diamonds are created using two methods: CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) and HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature). Both replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form. The result is a real diamond with the same crystal structure, hardness, and optical properties as a mined stone. The growth method is documented on the IGI certificate.
Can I get a custom order?
Yes. Contact us at mark@studsdirect.com with your specifications (carat weight, shape, metal preference). All custom pieces maintain our VVS1/D-E/IGI standard. Custom orders typically take 10–14 business days.