Franc Laurent vs Austen Blake: Price and Delivery Comparison

When it comes to jewellery that dazzles, two brands ignite the conversation: Franc Laurent and Austen & Blake. On one side, Franc Laurent offers affordable moissanite rings and jewellery that sparkle like diamonds without the steep price. On the other hand, Austen & Blake delivers premium diamonds and bespoke luxury, crafted for those who want nothing but the finest.

Choosing between them isn’t just about style, it’s about value, quality, and how quickly you can get your hands on the piece of your dreams. In this guide, we pit these two brands head-to-head, breaking down prices, designs, and delivery experiences so you can make a confident, informed decision. By the end, you’ll know exactly which brand deserves your next investment in sparkle and style.

Comparing Engagement and Wedding Ring Prices

Franc Laurent: Affordable Luxury with Moissanite

Franc Laurent primarily focuses on moissanite jewellery, providing affordable luxury options. Their price range is broad, making them accessible to a variety of buyers:

• Moissanite Wedding Rings: From around £185 to £400+, featuring simple bands or pavé styles.

• Moissanite Engagement Rings: Typically £215–£650+, with special designs reaching £340–£540+.

• Example by Carat Size:

• 1 ct Solitaire: £380

• 2 ct: £565

• 3 ct: £715

• 4 ct: £855

• 5 ct: £995

Stone size, design complexity, and metal choice (mostly sterling silver) are the main factors affecting pricing.

Austen & Blake: Premium Diamonds with Customisation

Austen & Blake specialises in diamond engagement rings, often tailored to the buyer’s preferences. Their pricing is structured in tiers:

• Under £500: Entry-level pieces, smaller gemstones, and simple bands.

• £500–£1,000: Standard engagement rings and everyday jewellery.

• £1,000–£5,000+: Larger diamonds, elaborate designs, or bespoke options.

• £5,000+: High-carat diamond pieces or fully custom designs.

Example: A Sabrina ring in 18K white gold starts at £550, with the final price rising depending on diamond size and quality.

Key Insight: While Franc Laurent offers affordable moissanite options, Austen & Blake targets buyers willing to invest in natural or lab-grown diamonds with high customisation potential.

Pendants, Necklaces, and Earrings

Observation: Franc Laurent covers mid-range moissanite accessories affordably, while Austen & Blake offers a consistent premium experience across diamonds and gemstones.

Delivery & Shipping: UK and International

Franc Laurent

• Free Shipping: Orders over £250, including international destinations.

• Delivery Times:

• UK: ~2–5 business days

• International: ~3–7 business days

• Made-to-Order Jewellery: Production + delivery up to 4–8 weeks.

• Tracking: Provided via dispatch email.

• Duties & Taxes: Usually covered (DDP); rare exceptions may require payment upon delivery.

• Special Notes: Signature may be required; re-delivery charges may apply if address is incorrect.

Austen & Blake

• Free UK Delivery: All standard orders, fully insured, signature required.

• Delivery Times:

• Made-to-order: ~2–4 weeks

• Ready/Quick Dispatch: 2–3 working days (UK)

• Tracking: Sent by email post-dispatch.

• Collection Option: Available from the store with appointment and ID.

• International Orders: Shipping varies by country; info available at checkout.

Key Difference: Franc Laurent is geared toward faster international shipping and insured delivery, whereas Austen & Blake provides store collection options and slightly longer lead times for bespoke orders.

Factors Influencing Price Differences

• Stone Type: Moissanite vs Diamond drives the base price significantly.

• Carat Size & Quality: Larger stones or higher diamond grades escalate Austen & Blake prices more sharply than Franc Laurent’s moissanite.

• Design Complexity: Halo, pavé, multi-stone designs cost more at both brands, but Franc Laurent maintains affordability.

• Metal Choice: Franc Laurent mainly uses sterling silver, whereas Austen & Blake offers multiple gold types and platinum.

• Promotions & Offers: Austen & Blake occasionally applies discounts or seasonal promotions, slightly reducing effective cost.

Summary Table: Price & Delivery Comparison

Takeaway: Franc Laurent offers an accessible entry point for elegant moissanite jewellery with reliable delivery. Austen & Blake, meanwhile, appeals to buyers seeking premium diamonds, high customisation, and classic luxury styling.

Franc Laurent vs Austen & Blake: Which to Choose?

For most buyers, Franc Laurent is the best choice. You get beautiful, high-quality moissanite jewellery at affordable prices, with fast and insured delivery for UK and international orders. It’s perfect for couples or shoppers who want style, sparkle, and value without paying premium diamond prices.

Austen & Blake is excellent if you specifically want natural or high-carat diamonds and are ready to invest significantly more. But for everyday luxury, Franc Laurent provides the best balance of quality, design, and cost.

Final Thoughts

If budget is a primary concern but you still want brilliance and quality, Franc Laurent is a compelling choice. For those willing to invest in high-carat diamonds and bespoke designs, Austen & Blake provides premium craftsmanship and flexible customisation.

Whether you prioritise affordability or premium diamonds, both brands ensure secure, insured delivery and clear tracking, making online luxury jewellery shopping simple and trustworthy.

FAQs

Is Franc Laurent cheaper than Austen & Blake?

Yes, Franc Laurent jewellery is generally more affordable because it focuses on moissanite instead of diamonds.

What type of stones does Austen & Blake use?

Austen & Blake mainly specialises in natural and lab-grown diamond jewellery.

Does Franc Laurent offer international shipping?

Yes, Franc Laurent provides international shipping, often free on orders over £250.

How long does Austen & Blake delivery usually take?

Ready items can arrive in about 2–3 working days, while made-to-order jewellery usually takes around 2–4 weeks.

Which brand is better for budget buyers?

Franc Laurent is usually the better option for buyers looking for elegant jewellery at more affordable prices.