When it comes to choosing the perfect gemstone for an engagement ring or piece of jewelry, moissanite and diamond are two popular options that often come to mind.
While both stones are known for their stunning beauty and brilliance, they have distinct differences that may make one a better choice than the other depending on your preferences and budget.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at moissanites vs. diamonds, comparing their key characteristics to help you determine which gemstone is the best fit for you.
What is Moissanite?
Discovered by French scientist Henri Moissan in 1893 within a meteor crater, Moissanite is a unique gemstone known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, making it a popular alternative to diamonds in jewelry.
While naturally occurring Moissanite is extremely rare, most Moissanite available today is lab-created. This engineered gemstone boasts a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamonds (!) and a higher refractive index, giving it more sparkle and colorful flashes.
Moissanite is also more affordable than diamonds, providing a cost-effective yet dazzling option for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces. and its durability and resistance to scratching make it suitable for everyday wear.
Moissanite vs. Diamond: Appearance
When it comes to appearance, moissanite and diamond have some similarities but also notable differences. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, meaning it bends and refracts light differently. This gives moissanite more “fire,” or flashes of rainbow colors, when hit by light. Moissanite also tends to have more brilliance, sparkle, and luster compared to a diamond of similar size and quality.
Some people prefer this extra sparkle, while others feel it can make moissanite look less “diamond-like” and more artificial. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to personal preferences and what catches your eye.
Moissanite vs. Diamond: Which is the Best Choice?
When choosing between diamonds and Moissanite, it’s important to consider the key differences in their durability, brilliance, color and clarity:
| Criteria | Moissanite | Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Very durable – 9.25 on the Mohs scale | Extremely durable – 10 on the Mohs scale |
| Brilliance and Fire | Higher refractive index (2.65-2.69), more colorful flashes (dispersion 0.104) | Lower refractive index (2.42), more white light flashes (dispersion 0.044) |
| Color | Usually near-colorless, can show slight yellow or green tints | Color available in a wide range from D (colorless) to Z (light color) |
| Clarity | Typically fewer inclusions, may have needle-like inclusions under magnification | Clarity varies widely, can have various inclusions like clouds, feathers, and pinpoints |
Moissanite vs. Diamond: Cost
One of the most significant differences between moissanite and diamond is their cost.
Moissanite is much more affordable than diamond, typically costing around 10% the price of a comparable diamond! For example, a 1-carat moissanite might cost $500 to $600, while a 1-carat diamond of good quality could cost $5,000 or more. This price difference becomes even more pronounced at larger carat weights. A high-quality 2-carat moissanite might cost around $1,500, while a 2-carat diamond could easily exceed $20,000.
For buyers on a budget, moissanite offers the opportunity to get a larger, visually impressive stone for a fraction of the cost of a diamond.
Resale Value of Moissanite vs. Diamond
When it comes to resale value, diamonds tend to retain their value better than moissanite.
Since moissanite is a lab-created gemstone, it lacks the inherent rarity and perceived value of natural diamonds. High-quality diamonds, especially those with favorable characteristics like cut, clarity, color, and carat weight, can hold their value well over time.
However, it’s important to note that most diamonds don’t actually appreciate in value. Selling a diamond earring, necklace or ring will typically yield a lower price than the original retail cost.
Moissanite, being more affordable from the start, will likely have a lower resale value compared to a diamond of similar size and quality.
Ultimately, the resale value should not be the primary consideration when choosing between moissanite and diamond, as the wearer’s personal preferences and enjoyment of the gem are most important.
Choosing Between Moissanite and Diamond
When deciding between moissanite and diamond, consider your budget, size and quality preferences, and personal values regarding lab-created vs. natural gemstones.
If you have a limited budget but want a larger, high-quality stone, moissanite may be the best choice. It offers exceptional brilliance and fire at a fraction of the cost of a diamond.
However, if you prefer the prestige and rarity of a natural gemstone and have the budget for it, a diamond may be the way to go. Some people also prefer the slightly more subtle sparkle of a diamond compared to moissanite’s flashier appearance.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider what matters most to you in a gemstone and let that guide your decision between moissanite and diamond.
