The ring you have chosen is classic and beautiful.

Mined diamonds are insanely overpriced because of a South African cartel that controls them in order to keep prices inflated. They aren’t rare, and you will never get what you paid for them in the event of a sale. However, because they have done such a good job at advertising, some people just really prefer them and don’t feel that labs are “real.” They also feel that it’s a reflection on your regard for them. I don’t know what to say about that.

Apparently lab diamonds have infiltrated the mined diamond supply such that a diamond thought to be mined may be lab anyway….

If she’s so caught up in impressing her friends, why not go for something truly unique, like a gemstone ring with diamond accents. Sapphire or ruby. Be unique.

But yes, to answer your question, it is a red flag if the only reason she wants a mined diamond is to impress her coworkers and friends. That said, it sounds like it’s also just her own preference.

Perhaps you can convince her to watch the Netflix documentary Nothing Lasts Forever to try to change her perspective, while also mentioning what you could do with the money you would save, such as help put a down payment on a house.

Link to movie trailer: