Diamonds are far more than beautiful adornments — they are symbols of love, status, and timeless elegance. Whether you’re selecting an engagement ring, designing a bespoke piece, or investing in a family heirloom, understanding the difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds is essential.
In this insightful video by the Diamond Learning Centre, the complex question of origin is explored in detail — demystifying what separates a diamond born deep within the Earth from one crafted in a laboratory. At Prins & Prins, our heritage in fine diamond jewellery is grounded in expertise, integrity, and a passion for rare beauty. Below, we delve into the nuanced distinctions to help you make the most refined and confident choice.
Natural diamonds are formed under immense pressure and heat over billions of years, deep beneath the Earth’s crust. They are then brought to the surface through ancient volcanic eruptions and are recovered from kimberlite pipes, making each stone a fragment of the Earth’s earliest history. Quite literally, a natural diamond is one of the oldest objects you can ever touch.
Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are cultivated in high-tech laboratories over a period of days to weeks. Through either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), scientists replicate the conditions of natural diamond formation. The result is a diamond with the same physical, optical, and chemical properties — yet lacking the ancient provenance that defines a natural gem.
Although they may appear identical to the naked eye, lab-grown diamonds are easily distinguished by experts and advanced equipment.
Elegance begins with authenticity.
Natural diamonds are a finite natural resource, among the ten rarest materials on Earth. To put this in perspective: the combined total of all natural diamonds over one carat mined annually could fit inside a single exercise ball. Their scarcity lends them lasting value and cultural prestige. Over the last 35 years, natural diamonds have appreciated in value by approximately 3% annually, making them not just exquisite adornments, but sound long-term investments.
In contrast, lab-grown diamonds can be produced in unlimited quantities. As manufacturing technologies have advanced, their prices have dropped significantly — by over 80% since 2016. Their value is primarily tied to production costs and seller profit margins. While they provide a more affordable alternative, they generally do not retain or increase in value over time.
True rarity cannot be replicated.
A diamond’s worth extends far beyond its sparkle. It lies in its story, its origin, and the legacy it creates. Natural diamonds offer a sense of exclusivity that cannot be matched — each stone is one-of-a-kind, shaped by millennia. This makes them the preferred choice for heritage pieces designed to be passed down through generations.
Lab-grown diamonds may appeal to buyers focused on budget or sustainability. However, they lack the intrinsic value, emotional resonance, and long-term prestige of their natural counterparts. For those seeking a piece of history, nothing compares to the authenticity of a natural diamond.
Luxury is not just in the look, but in the legacy.
Choosing between a lab-grown and natural diamond depends on your personal values and priorities. If you’re seeking affordability with aesthetic appeal, lab-grown diamonds offer a compelling option. But if you value rarity, investment potential, and a deeper connection to the Earth, a natural diamond is unparalleled.
At Prins & Prins, we believe every jewellery purchase is a deeply personal expression of love, celebration, or legacy. That’s why our team of qualified gemologists and designers are here to guide you through every step of the selection process — with integrity, discretion, and uncompromising expertise.
| Feature | Natural Diamond | Lab-Grown Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Formation Time | Billions of years | A few days to weeks |
| Rarity | Extremely rare, finite | Mass produced, unlimited |
| Value Over Time | Appreciates (≈3% annually) | Depreciates |
| Exclusivity | Unique and heirloom-worthy | Visually similar but lacks rarity |
| Investment Appeal | High | Low |
As Cape Town’s premier luxury jeweller, Prins & Prins Diamonds invites you to experience the brilliance of diamonds in their truest, most authentic form. Whether you are drawn to the eternal charm of a natural diamond or curious about modern alternatives, our bespoke service ensures your journey is informed, elegant, and unforgettable.
Visit our showroom or book a private consultation to explore our curated collection of certified natural diamonds and custom-designed pieces.