Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds: The Complete South African Guide (2025/2026)
Choosing the perfect diamond is one of the most important steps in designing an engagement ring – and today, South Africans can choose between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds. Both are real diamonds, both sparkle beautifully, and both can be certified by leading grading laboratories such as GIA and IGI.
But which option is right for you?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know, including price differences, durability, certification, resale insights, and what South Africans are choosing in 2025/2026.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
A lab-grown diamond is a diamond created in a controlled environment using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-forming process. These diamonds have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.
Lab-grown diamonds are:
- Actual diamonds
- Certified and laser-inscribed
- Visually and physically identical to natural diamonds
- Ethically and sustainably produced
- More affordable than mined diamonds
The only difference? Their origin. Natural diamonds form underground over billions of years; lab-grown diamonds are created using heat, pressure, and carbon inside a laboratory.
What Are Natural Diamonds?
Natural diamonds are mined from deep within the earth, where they formed over billions of years through natural geological processes. They are valued for their rarity and traditional symbolism.
Natural Diamonds are:
- Formed naturally in the earth
- Graded by GIA, IGI and other labs
- Rarer than lab-grown diamonds
- Traditionally linked to long-term value
- Available in a wide range of shapes and clarities
- Both types can be exceptional – the choice comes down to your preferences.
Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds: Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | Lab-Grown Diamonds | Natural Diamonds |
Are they real? | Yes | Yes |
Appearance | Identical | Identical |
Price | 60–80% lower | Higher |
Rarity | Less rare | Naturally rare |
Certification | GIA / IGI | GIA / IGI |
Ethics | Guaranteed conflict-free | Regulated but mined |
Environmental impact | Lower | Higher |
Resale value | Lower | Higher (long-term) |
Popularity in SA | Fast-growing | Consistently strong |
Price Difference in South Africa
This is one of the biggest deciding factors.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds cost 60–80% less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.
This price difference allows you to:
✔ Choose a bigger stone
✔ Choose a higher colour or clarity
✔ Stay comfortably within your budget
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Durable?
Yes – they are equally durable. Both natural and lab-grown diamonds score 10/10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them ideal for everyday wear.
They resist scratching, heat, and wear exactly the same.
Certification: GIA vs IGI
Whether you choose natural or lab-grown, certification is essential.
At Grand Diamonds, every diamond comes with:
- A GIA or IGI certificate
- A laser-inscribed certification number
- A full quality breakdown of the 4Cs
This ensures complete transparency and peace of mind.
Environmental & Ethical Differences
Lab-Grown Diamonds
- No mining involved
- Lower carbon footprint
- Conflict-free
Natural Diamonds
- Mined with strict global regulations
- Many support African economies and employment
- Require more environmental oversight
Both are responsible choices when sourced through reputable suppliers – which Grand Diamonds guarantees.
Resale Value: What South Africans Should Know
Natural diamonds traditionally hold stronger resale value due to their rarity. Lab-grown diamonds can be resold, but their resale values are generally lower because they are easier to produce.
However, most buyers today prioritise:
- Size
- Sparkle
- Value for money
- Ethics
This is why lab-grown diamonds have become incredibly popular.
Which Option Are South Africans Choosing?
In 2025/2026, South Africa is seeing a major rise in lab-grown diamond sales, especially among couples who want:
- A bigger diamond
- Better colour or clarity
- A more affordable option
- A modern, ethical choice
Natural diamonds remain a favourite for those who value:
- Rarity
- Tradition
- Long-term collectability
Both are beautiful, durable, and meaningful – the right choice is the one that suits your values and budget.
How to Choose Between Lab-Grown and Natural
Ask yourself:
✔ Is size your priority?
Choose lab-grown – you’ll get a bigger stone for the same budget.
✔ Is tradition or rarity important to you?
Choose natural.
✔ Do you want the best colour and clarity for your price?
Choose lab-grown.
✔ Do you want long-term resale value?
Choose natural.
✔ Do you want an eco-friendly or conflict-free option?
Choose lab-grown.
Final Thoughts: You Can’t Go Wrong - Both Are Beautiful
Whether you choose natural or lab-grown diamonds, both offer exceptional sparkle, durability, and beauty. What matters most is choosing a diamond that reflects your personal values, style, and budget.
At Grand Diamonds, our experts are ready to guide you through both options, show you side-by-side comparisons, and help you select the perfect stone.
Ready to View Diamonds in Person?
Visit our Cape Town showroom or book a consultation to compare natural and lab-grown diamonds side-by-side. We’ll walk you through the 4Cs, pricing, and everything you need to feel confident in your choice.