Moissanite vs Diamonds: A Comprehensive Comparison

Moissanite is a popular diamond alternative because it offers many of the physical and visual properties of natural diamonds, but at a fraction of the price.

Moissanite and diamonds both offer a stunning, sparkling appearance, and both are highly durable, but they differ in several key aspects. This guide will explore the similarities and differences between moissanite and diamonds, helping you make an informed choice for your proposal ring.

The Key Differences Between Moissanite and Diamonds

Moissanite and diamonds may look similar at first glance, but they have some distinct characteristics that set them apart.

Composition and Origin

Diamonds are made of pure carbon formed under extreme pressure. Naturally they are formed with heat deep within the Earth’s mantle over millions of years, but lab grown diamonds have increased in popularity over recent years. Moissanite, on the other hand, is composed of silicon carbide and was originally discovered in a meteorite crater. Moissanite is now created in labs, ensuring consistent quality.

Brilliance and Fire

While moissanite and diamonds are visually very similar, moissanite is known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, this translates as a bright and colourful sparkle. Moissanite often exhibits more sparkle than diamonds due to its higher refractive index, this makes them particularly eye catching in a proposal ring, sure to light up any engagement photos.

Price Point

One of the most significant differences is price. Moissanite is considerably more affordable than diamonds of a similar size and quality. This makes moissanite an attractive option for a temporary engagement ring, offering all the sparkle without the hefty price tag.

Close-up of a sparkling moissanite gemstone

The Visual and Physical Properties of Moissanite & Diamond

Colour and Clarity

Diamonds are available in a range of colours, but the typical grading scale from D - Z is from colourless through to shades of yellow, with the most valuable diamonds being at the colourless end of the scale. The clarity of diamonds is also measured on a scale, it refers to the existence of internal defects called inclusions, or surface defects, called blemishes. The more expensive diamonds are classes as flawless, with no defects. As moissanite is created in a lab, it typically scores very well in terms of colour and clarity, therefore most closely resembling higher quality diamonds. You can read more about the colour and clarity of moissanite here.

Hardness and Durability  

Diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them the hardest natural substance. Moissanite ranks slightly lower at 9.25 Mohs, which still makes moissanite incredibly hard and durable, more than enough for everyday wear in jewellery.

Cut and Shape

Both stones can be cut into various shapes, including round, princess, cushion, and oval. The cut quality affects the stone’s brilliance and overall appearance. Moissanite’s unique crystal structure means it can be cut to maximise its fire and brilliance, sometimes resulting in a more eye-catching sparkle pattern compared to diamonds. At proposal ring we offer both round and oval cut moissanite rings.

Diamond testers

Diamonds conduct heat exceptionally well, which is why diamond testers use thermal conductivity to identify genuine diamonds. Moissanite also conducts heat but at a different rate, which can sometimes cause confusion with basic diamond testers. Advanced testers or professional appraisal are recommended for accurate identification.

How Moissanite Is Made

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone, which means it is produced in controlled environments rather than mined from the Earth. This process allows for consistent quality and reduces environmental impact.

The creation of moissanite involves synthesising silicon carbide crystals using advanced technology. This method produces stones that are nearly flawless and free from the inclusions often found in natural diamonds. You can read more about how moissanite is made here.

Ethically, moissanite offers a conflict-free alternative to diamonds, which can sometimes be associated with unethical mining practices.

Practical Recommendations for Choosing Between Moissanite and Diamonds

When deciding between moissanite and diamonds, consider the following factors:

1. Budget

   If you want a large, sparkling stone but want to remain price conscious because it's for a placeholder engagement ring, moissanite is an excellent choice. It offers a similar look to diamonds at a fraction of the cost.

   
   

2. Durability

   Both stones score towards the top of the Mohs hardness scale and are therefore highly durable, suitable for everyday wear without concerns about damage.

   
   

3. Appearance

   Moissanite is near colourless like the highest quality diamonds, and tends to have more fire and brilliance, so moissanite can hold its own in terms of a dazzling look in an engagement ring.

   
   

4. Ethical Considerations

   Being lab grown, moissanite ensures a conflict-free choice.

   
   

5. Resale Value

   Moissanite is far more affordable, while diamonds generally hold their value better over time.

   
   

Final Thoughts on Moissanite Vs. Diamond

While diamonds remain the most popular choice for a 'fovever' engagement ring, the visual similarity and affordabilty make moissanite the perfect answer for a temporary engagement ring, or proposal ring.