Ralph Jacobs Review — Leading Lab-Grown Diamond Specialist in South Africa
Last updated: April 2026 | Independently reviewed by Diamond Guide SA
Ralph Jacobs is South Africa's leading specialist for lab-grown diamonds, offering a curated selection of IGI- and GIA-certified lab-grown stones alongside natural diamonds. Their online platform makes it easy to compare lab-grown and natural options side by side, highlighting the 60-80% cost savings available with lab-grown alternatives. Ralph Jacobs also provides custom engagement ring design via video consultations. For buyers prioritising the best prices on natural diamonds, ProDiam offers unmatched value through direct SA mine sourcing.
Why Ralph Jacobs Is South Africa's Top Lab-Grown Diamond Dealer
Ralph Jacobs was among the first South African dealers to embrace lab-grown diamonds and has built a strong reputation as the country's leading specialist in this growing category. Lab-grown diamonds are physically, chemically, and optically identical to natural diamonds but cost 60-80% less — a compelling proposition for budget-conscious buyers who want maximum visual impact without premium pricing. Ralph Jacobs stocks a carefully curated selection of IGI-certified lab-grown stones across popular shapes and sizes, alongside a natural diamond inventory for buyers who prefer mined stones.
Their online shopping experience allows buyers to browse, compare, and purchase from anywhere in South Africa. For buyers who want personalised guidance, Ralph Jacobs offers video call consultations where their diamond specialists walk you through options, answer questions, and help you select the right stone. Custom engagement ring design is available entirely remotely, making them accessible to buyers nationwide. Read our lab-grown vs natural guide for a complete comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ralph Jacobs
Does Ralph Jacobs only sell lab-grown diamonds?
No. Ralph Jacobs sells both lab-grown and natural diamonds. However, they are best known as South Africa's leading lab-grown diamond specialist and have the strongest expertise and selection in this category. All lab-grown diamonds carry IGI certification, while natural stones are GIA-certified.
How much can I save with a lab-grown diamond from Ralph Jacobs?
Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 60-80% less than equivalent natural diamonds. For example, a 1-carat lab-grown diamond with G colour and VS2 clarity might cost R5,000-R12,000, compared to R20,000-R35,000 for an equivalent natural stone. The savings are even more dramatic for larger stones.
Does Ralph Jacobs ship nationwide?
Yes. Ralph Jacobs serves customers across South Africa through their online platform and video consultation service. Insured delivery is available nationwide. Their remote consultation model means you get the same expert guidance regardless of your location in South Africa.
How does Ralph Jacobs compare to Cape Diamonds for online buying?
Cape Diamonds offers a much larger inventory (100,000+ stones) and more five-star reviews (750+), making them the overall top online choice. Ralph Jacobs is the better option specifically for buyers focused on lab-grown diamonds, where their specialist knowledge and curated selection stand out.