The Difference Between Moissanite and Diamond

The Difference Between Moissanite and Diamond

Are you considering buying a ring with moissanite stones instead of diamonds? Before you do, you should learn the difference between moissanite vs. diamond rings. Read below to find out more!

What Are Moissanite & Diamond’s Similarities?

The most significant similarity between moissanite rings vs. diamond rings is their appearance. To the untrained eye, a moissanite ring can pass as a diamond ring. Yet, besides the appearance, almost everything else about the two gemstones is different.

Moissanite vs. Diamond Sourcing

Unlike diamonds, moissanite is of alien origin. Natural moissanite comes from a fallen meteorite, making it one of the rarest natural minerals in nature. Because the stone is so scarce, almost all the moissanite you’ll find in the market are lab-grown.

Natural diamonds aren’t as rare as natural moissanite. Yet, many diamond producers also create lab-grown diamonds. Today, jewelers also strive to produce conflict-free and ethical diamonds.

Because laboratories replicate their source, there’s no difference in buying natural moissanite vs. lab diamond. The choice of buying a lab-grown or natural moissanite or diamond will depend on your preferences.

Moissanite Rings vs. Diamond Rings Durability

When it comes to the durability difference between moissanite and diamond, the latter is still the more durable gemstone. On the Mohs Scale of Hardness, the diamond has a score of 10. Diamonds can withstand wear and tear even if you use your ring daily.

Moissanite gemstones have a 9.25 score on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. It means you can use a moissanite ring for everyday use. However, don’t count on your moissanite or diamond ring surviving harmful chemicals.

Moissanite Ring vs. Diamond Ring Brilliance

An advantage moissanite has over diamonds is its brilliance. Moissanite shines with a rainbow, disco ball-like effect. Larger moissanite stones tend to be more colourful and brilliant.

When you put them side by side, a diamond will look duller than moissanite. Diamonds reflect light uniquely in three ways:

  • Dispersion or refraction of rainbow colours
  • Brilliance or white light reflection
  • Scintillation or surface sparkle

Together, these three types of reflection create a unique and inimitable sparkle.

Moissanite Engagement Rings vs. Diamond Engagement Rings Colour

Moissanite is naturally colourless, but it can also come in yellow or greyish hues under certain lights. Diamonds have more colour variety. You can find colourless diamonds and those with traces of yellow, brown, and grey.

Moissanite vs. Diamond Price

Natural diamonds and lab diamonds have varying prices depending on the 4 Cs: cut, clarity, colour, and carat. If you want a more affordable option, buy a lab-grown diamond.

The price of moissanite compared to diamond is noticeably lower. Thus, many people use them as alternatives when buying engagement or wedding rings. The cost of moissanite gems also varies based on size and quality.

Can you tell the difference between moissanite and diamond? Are you interested in buying the more affordable and brilliant diamond alternative now? Or do you still prefer the more durable and traditional stone?