Shopping for an engagement ring or fine jewelry can quickly become overwhelming. You might see a moissanite diamond next to a lab-grown diamond and wonder why the two stones can be so different in price.
The first important detail is that moissanite and diamond are two completely different gemstones. They both have incredible sparkle and durability to create a luxurious appearance, but the way they refract light cannot be ignored.
That is important to consider when spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on jewelry that you might keep for years.
Some want to see maximum sparkle, while others want the look of a diamond without paying the price of a mined diamond. The value of your money, the appearance you desire for your engagement ring and how you plan to wear the jewelry will help guide which option you pursue.
This guide covers the differences between the two gems in terms of appearance, durability, price and normal daily wear to give perspective when choosing fine jewelry.
What is a Moissanite Diamond?
The phrase moissanite diamond refers to gem-quality moissanite commonly found when shopping for diamond alternatives to create rings or other jewelry.
There are no natural sources of the gemstone that are common. In fact, most moissanite used for jewelry has been produced in a laboratory controlled setting.
The most notable appearance quality is the extreme brilliance of moissanite, which can also produce flashes of colors.
Diamond has a very different pattern of white and colored brilliance, which may vary based on the size of the center stone.
Moissanite Diamond vs Lab Diamonds: Differences At A Glance
It cannot be stressed enough that although the two gems create beautiful jewelry, there are several reasons why they are completely different:
• The mineral makeup is not the same (moissanite is comprised of silicon carbide)
• The degree of sparkle is found to be varied between the two gems (with moissanite showcasing more color)
• Diamond is ranked higher with regards to durability, although both gems can withstand day to day wear and tear
• One gem is considerably less expensive than the other
• Lab grown diamond is technically a diamond, but moissanite is simply a different type of natural gemstone
None of these distinctions suggest one gem is superior than the other. They both have special appeals depending on what the buyer values most when purchasing jewelry.
How Durable Is Moissanite Diamond Jewelry?
Durability is always an important consideration, especially for engagement rings since they tend to be worn every day.
The fact that moissanite has extreme hardness makes it resistant to scratches and appropriate for every day wear. Diamond still holds a higher position in terms of overall durability, but it is still a hard gem that can withstand normal wear, assuming it is properly maintained in its setting.
It is vital to note that although durable, either gemstone can suffer prong damage or other issues with metal if the ring is worn often.
Price: Making An Important Impact on Value
More often than not there will be a specific budget when shopping for engagement rings. Those who are buying a ring for themselves have more flexibility to pursue their visions than those who are shopping within a limited range.
Paying considerably less for a beautiful moissanite center stone allows room for other elements, like a nice quality setting, wedding-related expenditures or even the ability to pursue a bigger ring as a whole. That would be difficult to achieve with a comparable diamond.
Lab diamonds offer yet another possibility, since they provide the materials and appearance of a mined diamond, although at a much lower price.
Instead of focusing on the size, place value on the quality craftsmanship and any additional guarantees that might come with the purchase of lab-grown diamonds, since they will present the appearance of a diamond but normally with less cost.
Which Stone Looks Better In An Engagement Ring?
There really is no general preference when shopping for the perfect gem, because it always depends on the buyer.
Choose moissanite if you would like a brilliant stone that has flashes of color, greater durability, and can provide the appearance of sparkle with less investment. Go with a laboratory-created diamond if having a real diamond is important.
It also helps to look at the stones in multiple lights, since the controlled displays found in jewelry stores can exaggerate the appearance of any fine jewelry gem.
FAQs About Moissanite and Lab-Grown Diamonds
Is moissanite a real diamond?
No, moissanite is a real gemstone but it is not a diamond.
Can you wear moissanite everyday?
Yes, moissanite is considered a very durable gemstone, making it perfect for every day wear.
Does moissanite loose its sparkle?
The gem itself never loses its brightness, but oils and buildup can prevent the sparkle from being shown at its best until the earrings or ring can be cleaned.
Are lab diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. They are real diamonds, just made in a laboratory.
