While natural diamonds remain a classic choice and a great purchase at current prices, Laboratory-Grown Diamonds offer more affordable prices for large stones without the value. Sapphires remain the top choice for coloured gemstones in engagement rings for their range of colour and durability.
Pricing for polished diamonds can differ even when two stones have the same cut, clarity, colour and carat weight, since their optical performance (brilliance), spread (perceived size), optical symmetry, fluorescence and other factors can vary. Similarly when it comes to coloured gemstones, a stone’s origin and treatments have a significant impact on its price and its value appreciation over time.
The prices of natural mined diamonds are at historic lows although the prices are levelling out with larger stones in high demand and limited supply. For those with larger budgets, this is a great time to buy natural diamonds. We recommend looking for diamonds with commercial colour and clarity gradings e.g. I-J colour and SI clarity (look for diamonds with inclusions not visible to the naked eye).
Laboratory-grown diamonds have gained popularity in South Africa and we offer them as an affordable alternative for clients looking for large white stones. The price of laboratory-grown diamonds will continue to decrease as technology advances and more stones are produced more rapidly. Not all laboratory-grown diamonds are produced alike, so we recommend buying stones that are certified by globally recognised grading laboratories.
With the exception of Pariba Tourmaline, Tourmaline and Spinel are a great alternative for those looking to incorporate a coloured gemstone in an engagement ring without the costs associated with sapphires. Both gemstone varieties are available in a wide assortment of colours and are durable, making them well-suited for use in engagement rings that are worn daily.
Left: Tourmaline, Right: Spinel
