For those who agree that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, say hello to your new BFF — Laura Chavez. She has been changing the way the world looks at diamonds from her boutique jewelry store Lark & Berry in London since 2018. The proponent of lab-grown or cultured diamonds chose Houston’s Upper Kirby District for her first United States boutique and has been open for a few months.
And what a new Houston jewel box it is, vitrines sparkling with to-die-for diamond confections as well as the occasional pieces with emeralds, sapphires, and rubies — all lab grown. All designed by Chavez. And all at shockingly good prices. (The two-carat lab-grown diamond studs that I purchased at a different retailer were priced three times higher than the same offered at Lark & Berry. Arrrggg!)
Gemstones of all varieties are lab grown for Lark & Berry.
In addition to a grand collection of pieces, the boutique offers custom designs, particularly in engagement rings, jewelry repairs, ear piercing, and other gemological needs.
So popular are her elegant if affordable jewelry that Chavez’ designs have graced the red carpet at the Oscars, Golden Globes, and Met Gala and have been worn by a number of celebrities, including Taylor Swift, Kate Beckinsale, and Kylie Minogue.
The Mexico native’s road to jewelry design was unexpected for a woman who holds a double major in economics and managerial studies from Rice University and an MBA from London Business School.
"My transition into jewelry design happened unexpectedly but made perfect sense once I discovered lab-grown diamonds," Chavez writes. "While earning my MBA at London Business School, I took a jewelry course out of curiosity, and that’s where I first learned about lab-grown diamonds.
I was completely blown away. These were real diamonds, chemically and physically identical to mined ones, but without the environmental destruction or ethical concerns.
The more I researched, the more I saw the potential for disruption in the luxury space. Most brands using lab-grown diamonds at the time focused on engagement rings, but no one was pushing the boundaries with innovative, design-led fine jewelry. That was my aha moment. I knew I had found a way to merge my entrepreneurial mindset with a business that aligned with my values. From there, Lark & Berry was born.
Running Lark & Berry is a constant mix of creativity and strategy. The business side requires me to think about branding, growth, and educating consumers on why lab-grown diamonds are the future. But at the same time, I’m deeply involved in the creative process. Designing pieces that push boundaries and feel fresh and modern.
Inspiration comes from everywhere. Architecture, nature, art, even just walking around London and noticing interesting details. I love blending classic and contemporary elements, creating pieces that feel timeless but also have a bit of an edge. I also think a lot about how jewelry makes people feel. Luxury should be about self-expression and confidence, not just status. That’s why we focus on bold yet elegant designs that people can wear every day, not just for special occasions.
I never wanted Lark & Berry to be just another jewelry brand. The designs had to stand out, and the messaging had to shift perceptions about what luxury jewelry could be. Balancing both sides — business and artistry — keeps things exciting and makes sure we’re always evolving.
Lark & Berry opens its first U.S. boutique in Upper Kirby where sparkling lab-grown diamonds beckon.
When did you first start selling lab-grown diamonds?
We opened our first store in London in 2018, and from day one, we were fully committed to lab-grown diamonds. At the time, most brands using lab-grown diamonds were focused on engagement rings, but I wanted to take a different approach — designing fine jewelry that people could wear and enjoy daily.
It was a bold move because the industry was still so attached to the idea that mined diamonds were the only "real" option. But we believed in what we were doing, and it paid off. Today, more people than ever understand that lab-grown diamonds are not just an alternative. They’re the smarter, more sustainable choice.
Laura Chavez’s mantra for Lark & Berry? Blending sustainability with timeless elegance.
FAQs
Q: What is the focus of Lark & Berry?
A: Lark & Berry is a boutique jewelry store that focuses on lab-grown diamonds and gemstones.
Q: What sets Lark & Berry apart from other jewelry brands?
A: Lark & Berry is committed to lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, which are more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Q: What types of jewelry does Lark & Berry offer?
A: Lark & Berry offers a range of jewelry, including engagement rings, fine jewelry, and custom designs.
Q: Where can I find a Lark & Berry store?
A: Lark & Berry has a store in Houston’s Upper Kirby District and is also available online.
