When it comes to picking a gemstone for an engagement ring or fine jewelry, the decision between moissanite and diamond can be tough.
Moissanite vs diamond is a hot topic now that we have ethical and affordable options other than natural diamonds.
In this article, we will explore the difference between moissanite and diamond composition, appearance, durability, cost, and ethics.
Moissanite vs Diamond
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is silicon carbide. Dr. Henri Moissan found it in a meteorite.
Natural moissanite is super rare.
Now, moissanite in jewelry is almost all lab-grown.
- Lab-Grown Process: Modern technology grows moissanite crystals over months, so there’s a consistent supply of good-quality gems. That’s why moissanite is popular for fine jewelry.
- Appearance: Moissanite is super brilliant. Its higher refractive index means more fire, color, and intensity than diamonds.
- Hardness and Durability: 9.25 on the Mohs scale. It is very durable for everyday wear but slightly softer than diamonds.
- Color and Clarity: Technology has produced colorless moissanite, but some may show a slight yellow or green tint. It is clear with minimal inclusions.
What is a Diamond?
Diamonds are pure carbon, either natural or lab-grown.
Natural diamonds have been formed deep in the earth for billions of years and have been brought to the surface via volcanoes.
They’re hard and timeless.
Lab-grown diamonds are HPHT or CVD.
Same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds but is ethical and often cheaper than mined diamonds.
- Hardness and Durability: Hardest known material. Ten on the Mohs scale. Highly durable and scratch-resistant.
- Color and Clarity: Graded D-Z (colorless to light yellow or brown). Lab-grown diamonds are available in all colors and clarityes.
Moissanite vs Diamond Key Differences
Sparkle and Brilliance
- Moissanite: Double refraction means a colorful sparkle that is more intense than diamonds. It has unique brilliance with rainbow flashes.
- Diamond: Single refraction means the traditional diamond sparkle people are familiar with. Reflects white and bright.
Hardness and Durability
- Moissanite: Very hard. 9.25 on the Mohs scale. Scratches resistant and everyday wear, but slightly softer than diamonds.
- Diamond: Hardest substance on earth. 10 on the Mohs scale. Everyday wear and tear, no scratching.
Note: Double refraction occurs when light passes through the gemstone twice, while single refraction occurs when light passes through once.
Color and Clarity
- Moissanite: Technology has produced almost colorless moissanite, but some may show a slight yellow or green tint under certain lighting. Very clear, with minimal inclusions.
- Diamond: Available in many colors and clarities – flawless and colorless to fancy colors like blue, yellow, and pink.
Price
- Moissanite: Cheaper than diamonds but not beauty sacrificed. Moissanite is cheaper because of its composition and process.
- Diamond: More expensive than moissanite because of natural rarity and process. Lab-grown diamonds are cheaper than natural diamonds but more expensive than moissanite.
Pros and Cons
Moissanite
- Pros: Affordable, super sparkly, super durable, ethical.
- Cons: Different types of sparkle may not be for everyone, and there is slight color in some stones.
Diamond
- Pros: It looks and performs like a natural diamond, is super durable, and comes in many colors.
- Cons: More expensive than moissanite, may still have some of the social stigma of traditional diamonds.
Moissanite vs Diamond: Which Sparkles More?
One of the main differences between moissanite and diamonds is the sparkle.
Moissanite’s double refraction gives it a rainbow effect, and it sparkles with colorful flashes.
Diamonds reflect light in a more subtle way, the classic diamond sparkle that many people are looking for.
Moissanite vs Diamond: Which is More Durable?
When it comes to durability, both are great options.
Moissanite is super tough, scratch and chip-resistant, and suitable for everyday wear.
Diamonds, being the hardest substance known to man, are virtually indestructible.
Moissanite vs Diamond: Cost
For many people, the cost is a big factor.
Moissanite is generally less expensive than diamonds, so if you want the most sparkle for your buck, it’s a good option.
Lab-created diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds but still more expensive than moissanite.
Cost Comparison
- Moissanite: Prices for moissanite generally range from $300 to $600 per carat, depending on quality and size. Larger and higher-quality stones may cost more.
- Lab-Created Diamonds: These are more affordable than natural diamonds but still more expensive than moissanite, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 per carat, depending on the diamond’s quality and characteristics.
- Natural Diamonds: The most expensive option, with prices typically ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per carat, influenced by factors like cut, clarity, color, and carat weight.
Moissanite vs Diamond: Ethical Considerations
Both moissanite and lab-created diamonds are ethical alternatives to mined diamonds.
They are created in a controlled environment, with no environmental degradation and human rights issues that come with diamond mining.
Choosing either gemstone supports sustainable and responsible practices in the jewelry industry.
Moissanite vs Diamond: Resale Value
When it comes to the resale value of moissanite and diamonds, diamonds generally hold their value better than moissanite.
This is because of diamonds’ market recognition and timeless appeal.
Natural diamonds tend to retain value over time, while moissanite doesn’t have the same level of market demand for resale.
Who should choose Moissanite?
- Those on a budget without sacrificing durability and sparkle.
- Those who love the unique, colorful brilliance of moissanite.
- Buyers who are concerned about the ethics of their purchase.
Who should choose Diamonds?
- Those who want the traditional look and feel of a natural diamond.
- Buyers who want the hardest gemstone and many color options.
- Those who want a gemstone that’s chemically and physically the same as natural diamonds.
Conclusion
Choosing between moissanite vs diamond it comes down to personal preference, lifestyle, and values.
Moissanite is an affordable, sparkly, and ethical option for those looking for something different and budget-friendly.
Diamonds are traditionally hard, and they are similar to natural diamonds for those who value those things.
Both options are steps toward a more sustainable and ethical industry, so you can enjoy your chosen gemstone with a clear conscience.
Whether you like the fiery sparkle of moissanite or the classic glamour of diamonds, you’ll add a beautiful piece to your collection that reflects your style and values.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference in hardness between moissanite and diamond?
Diamonds are the hardest known material, with a perfect score of 10 on the Mohs scale, making them extremely resistant to scratching.
Moissanite is also very hard, scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it slightly less durable than diamonds but still more durable than most other gemstones.
Which has more sparkle: moissanite or diamond?
Moissanite is known for its remarkable brilliance and fire, often described as more intense than diamonds.
This is due to moissanite’s higher refractive index (2.65) compared to diamonds (2.42), which causes it to reflect more light and display a rainbow-like sparkle.
Diamonds have a more subtle, classic sparkle with a white and bright brilliance.
How does the price of moissanite compare to that of a diamond?
Moissanite is significantly more affordable than diamonds.
A 2-carat moissanite can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, whereas a 2-carat diamond can cost tens of thousands of dollars depending on its quality.
Lab-created diamonds are less expensive than natural diamonds but are still higher in price compared to moissanite.
Can the average person visually discern moissanite from a diamond?
Due to its similar appearance, brilliance, and fire, moissanite can be easily mistaken for a diamond.
However, a skilled gemologist or jeweler using specialized tools can distinguish between the two based on differences in refractive index and other optical properties.