The Ultimate South African Resource

Everything You Need to Know to **Buy Wedding Rings** & High-Value Jewellery in 2026

From the geological rarity of **Tanzanite** to the lab-grown brilliance of **Moissanite** and the timeless status of **Diamonds**. This 2,000-word masterclass breaks down costs, durability, and design secrets to ensure your investment lasts a lifetime.

1. The Great Debate: **Moissanite vs. Diamond**

When you set out to buy an engagement ring in South Africa, the first hurdle is choosing the stone. For decades, the De Beers “Diamond is Forever” campaign made natural diamonds the only choice. However, in 2025, Moissanite engagement rings have disrupted the market.

The Science of Sparkle

To the untrained eye, Moissanite and Diamond look nearly identical, but they interact with light differently. Diamonds have a Refractive Index (RI) of 2.42. Moissanite, however, boasts an RI of 2.65 to 2.69. This results in what gemologists call the “Disco Ball Effect”—a spectacular rainbow fire that is actually more brilliant than a diamond.

The Durability Truth

A common concern when you buy jewellery intended for daily wear is scratching. Diamonds are a 10 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite is a 9.25. To put that in perspective, a Sapphire is a 9. This means Moissanite is the second hardest gemstone used in jewellery, making it incredibly resistant to the wear and tear of a modern South African lifestyle.

The “Value” Hack: Why Moissanite Wins on Budget

A 1-carat, high-quality natural diamond can range from R80,000 to R150,000+. A 1-carat Moissanite of the same visual quality often costs less than R10,000. This allow couples to:

  • Invest more in a custom-designed 18ct gold setting.
  • Choose a significantly larger centre stone (2ct or 3ct) that would be price-prohibitive in diamond.
  • Allocate budget toward a luxury honeymoon or home deposit.

2. The Investment Allure of **Tanzanite Jewellery**

For those who wish to buy jewellery that doubles as a legacy asset, Tanzanite is the gold standard. Unlike diamonds, which are mined globally, Tanzanite is found in only one place: the Merelani Hills of Tanzania.

Geologists refer to it as a “geological phenomenon.” The conditions that created Tanzanite 585 million years ago were so unique that the chance of finding it elsewhere is less than one in a million. This is why it is often called the “one-generation stone.”

When purchasing Tanzanite rings or pendants, focus on the “Triple A” (AAA) grade. This indicates a deep, saturated violet-blue that exhibits pleochroism—the ability to show different colours (blue, violet, and even flashes of red) from different angles.

Pro Tip for Tanzanite

“Tanzanite is a 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. While it is stunning for engagement rings, we always recommend a protective setting like a bezel or a halo of diamonds to protect the edges of the stone from accidental impact.”

3. The Science of the Band: **Buy Wedding Rings** That Last

The metal you choose for your wedding ring is just as important as the stone. It is the foundation of your jewellery.

Traditional Gold (9ct vs 18ct)

9ct gold contains more alloy metals, making it harder and more resistant to scratching, but 18ct has a richer colour and is more hypoallergenic. For ladies’ wedding rings, 18ct is the luxury standard.

Modern Alternatives (Tungsten & Damascus)

For men, Tungsten rings are virtually indestructible. Damascus Steel offers a unique, forged look where no two rings are identical—perfect for those seeking a non-traditional wedding band.

The Ethics of Your Purchase

In the modern era, knowing where your jewellery comes from is vital. At Jewellery Connection, we adhere to the Kimberley Process for all our diamonds and ensure that every gram of gold and every gemstone is ethically sourced. When you buy jewellery from us, you are supporting responsible mining practices that protect both people and the planet.

Your Journey Starts Here

Ready to find the ring that speaks your truth? Browse our curated collections of Diamonds, Moissanite, and Tanzanite today.