When it comes to choosing between simulated diamonds vs moissanite, you need to know the facts, benefits, and drawbacks of each.
Both have their own thing and are popular for different types of jewelry, such as engagement rings, earrings, and necklaces.
Jewellery has always been about beauty, status, and self-expression.
Over the years, the options for gemstones have grown.
While natural diamonds have always been associated with luxury and class, simulated diamonds and moissanite are affordable, brilliant, and ethical.
Simulated diamonds are made to look like real diamonds, which is a budget option for those who want the sparkle of diamonds without the price tag.
Moissanite is brilliant and durable, a high-quality, ethical, and beautiful alternative to natural diamonds.
This article will help you decide.
Simulated Diamond vs Moissanite
What Are Simulated Diamonds?
Simulated diamonds, also called diamond simulants, are materials that look like diamonds.
Cubic zirconia (CZ), synthetic spinel, and moissanite are the most common.
They’re made in labs and designed to look brilliant and sparkly like real diamonds.
Simulated diamonds vary in quality, some have inclusions and different clarity and color.
Simulated diamonds come in:
- Cubic Zirconia (CZ): Cheapest and looks most like diamonds.
- Synthetic Spinel: Hard and durable, used in cheaper jewelry.
- Strontium Titanate and YAG (Yttrium Aluminum Garnet): Historically used but less now because it is softer than CZ and moissanite.
These simulants come in colors: green, yellow, pink, blue, and so many design options.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a silicon carbide gemstone.
Found in a meteorite once, but now lab-grown.
Moissanite is brilliant and fiery, sometimes more so than diamonds. It is also durable, 9.25 on the Mohs scale, just below diamonds (10).
Moissanite is perfect for everyday wear.
Moissanite history goes back to 1893 when Dr. Henri Moissan found it in a meteorite crater in Arizona.
Because it’s rare in nature, nearly all moissanite in jewelry today is lab-grown, a sustainable and ethical process.
Appearance and Brilliance
The biggest difference between simulated diamonds and moissanite is how they look under light.
Moissanite has more brilliance because of its refractive index, which is higher than diamonds.
Moissanite sparkles more and has more fire (color flashes) than natural and simulated diamonds.
Simulated diamonds like CZ have a lower refractive index, so less brilliance and fire.
Refractive Index Comparison
- Moissanite: 2.65-2.69
- Diamond: 2.42
- Cubic Zirconia: 2.15-2.18 Moissanite’s higher refractive index means it looks more dazzling, and many jewelry lovers prefer that.
Durability
Moissanite’s hardness is perfect for jewelry to be worn every day.
It’s scratch-resistant and durable.
Cubic zirconia and other simulated diamonds are softer and scratch and damage over time.
That difference in hardness makes all the difference in the jewelry.
Mohs Hardness Scale
- Moissanite: 9.25
- Diamond: 10
- Cubic Zirconia: 8-8.5 Moissanite’s durability means it retains its brilliance and polish over time, so it is perfect for engagement rings and high-wear jewelry.
Cost
Cost is a big factor. Moissanite is cheaper than natural diamonds, about one-tenth the price for the same size and quality.
Simulated diamonds like CZ are even cheaper, but moissanite’s durability and brilliance often justify the extra cost compared to CZ.
Price Comparison:
- Moissanite: $400-$600 per carat
- Diamond: $4,000-$6,000 per carat (quality dependent)
- Cubic Zirconia: $20-$40 per carat. The big price difference makes moissanite and simulated diamonds attractive choices for beautiful, affordable jewelry.
Ethical and Environmental
Both moissanite and simulated diamonds are more ethical and environmentally friendly than mined diamonds.
Since they are lab-grown, they don’t have the environmental and ethical issues that come with diamond mining.
Moissanite and high-quality simulated diamonds are great options for consumers who care about the impact of their purchases.
Environmental Impact
- Moissanite and Simulated Diamonds: Low environmental impact
- Natural Diamonds: High environmental and ethical concerns, habitat destruction and labor issues
Buying lab-grown stones supports sustainable practices and reduces demand for conflict diamonds.
Who Should Choose Simulated Diamonds?
Simulated diamonds are for those who want an affordable, stylish option for fashion jewelry or temporary pieces.
They are for items that won’t be worn daily and for those who like to change their jewelry often to match trends.
Simulated diamonds are for:
- Fashion Jewelry: Affordable and trendy options for any occasion
- Temporary Pieces: Jewelry that won’t be worn daily or long-term
- Trend-Setters: Those who like to update their jewelry collections often
Who Should Choose Moissanite?
Moissanite is for those who want a durable, ethically sourced, and brilliant alternative to diamonds.
It’s perfect for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other daily wear pieces.
Moissanite’s longevity and sparkle make it a classic choice for fine jewelry.
Moissanite is for:
- Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands: Durable and brilliant for daily wear
- Fine Jewelry: High-quality pieces that will retain their sparkle and polish over time
- Ethical Consumers: Those looking for sustainable and conflict-free jewelry options
Conclusion
In short, both simulated diamonds and moissanite have their place in the world of jewelry.
Simulated diamonds are for fashionistas on a budget, moissanite is for those who want a durable, brilliant, and ethical diamond.
Your choice will depend on what matters most to you: cost, durability, or ethics.
The choice between simulated diamonds and moissanite comes down to personal preference and priorities.
Simulated diamonds, especially cubic zirconia, are great for those who want a low-cost, stylish option for occasional wear.
They look like diamonds for a fraction of the cost, so more people can have access to them.
But for those who prioritize durability, brilliance, and ethics, moissanite is the better choice.
Its hardness, fire, and ethical production make it a long-lasting and socially responsible option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference in brilliance between simulated diamonds and moissanite?
Moissanite is known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, which often surpasses that of simulated diamonds such as cubic zirconia (CZ).
Moissanite’s higher refractive index (2.65-2.69) compared to CZ (2.15-2.18) gives it a more intense sparkle and more vibrant flashes of color, making it a popular choice for those seeking a truly eye-catching gemstone.
Which stone is more durable: simulated diamonds or moissanite?
Moissanite is significantly more durable than most simulated diamonds.
It scores 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it second only to diamonds, which score a perfect 10.
In contrast, cubic zirconia scores between 8 and 8.5, making it more prone to scratches and damage with daily wear.
How do the costs of simulated diamonds and moissanite compare?
Moissanite is generally more affordable than natural diamonds but more expensive than most simulated diamonds like cubic zirconia.
Moissanite can cost about $400 to $600 per carat, whereas cubic zirconia is much cheaper, typically around $20 to $40 per carat.
This cost difference reflects Moissanite’s superior durability and brilliance compared to CZ.
Are there ethical and environmental benefits to choosing simulated diamonds or moissanite?
Both simulated diamonds and moissanite offer ethical and environmental benefits over natural diamonds.
They are lab-grown, reducing the environmental impact and ethical concerns associated with diamond mining.
Moissanite, in particular, is praised for being an eco-friendly and socially responsible choice, providing a sustainable alternative for conscientious consumers.