Moissanite vs Lab-Grown Diamonds: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

Moissanite or lab-grown diamonds aren’t identical. While both are alternatives to diamonds mined, their cosmetics, chemical composition, and sustainability are different in key ways. With the abundance of diamond options available nowadays, it’s not difficult to make consumers confuse the simulants of Moissanite with genuine diamonds that are created in labs.

Knowing the distinction between Moissanite and lab-grown diamond jewelry is vital to anyone looking for a wedding band or fine jewellery. Learn about the major difference between lab-grown and Moissanite diamonds and what you can do to make the most suitable option for your needs, as well as your style and budget.

What Is Moissanite?

In the latter part of the 1800s, French chemist Henri Moissan discovered microscopic crystals in the rock samples from a meteor crater located in Canyon Diablo, Arizona. At first, he believed that the crystals were diamonds because they were dazzling. It wasn’t until 1904 that it was confirmed that the crystals weren’t diamonds, but instead silicon carbide, which was a totally different substance. The new mineral was called Moissanite in honour of his name.

Moissanite is natural and extremely scarce; it is found only in limited amounts in meteorites or other geological formations. The majority of Moissanite that is available in the jewelry industry today is created in labs. Although it has a visual similarity to diamonds, it is not a kind of diamond, nor does it have the same properties as a diamond.

Is Moissanite a Real Diamond?

Absolutely no. Moissanite is a simulant of diamond made from silicon carbide. Although it appears like a diamond to an untrained eye, it has a distinct chemical composition and physical form. It is used in jewelry and is advertised as a less expensive option to diamonds, specifically for engagement rings.

Since natural Moissanite is scarce, almost all stones available today are produced. This makes it more readily available, but does not alter its fact that it’s not the same as diamonds. Moissanite’s optical characteristics also differ in that it has greater sparkle (rainbow-colored glow) than diamonds. This may give it a fake or flashy look in certain lighting conditions.

Moissanite could appear to be a diamond at first glance, but it’s not.

Moissanite vs Lab-Grown Diamond: What’s the Difference?

To evaluate the quality of diamonds grown in labs versus Moissanite. It is crucial to go beyond the surface sparkle. Diamonds grown in labs are chemically, physically, and optically similar to diamonds mined. They are created from pure carbon atoms that are arranged within a crystal lattice similar to natural diamonds that are created deep in the Earth.

Moissanite, on the contrary, is composed of silicon carbide. This fundamental distinction affects not just appearance, but also quality and durability. When diamonds (both grown in labs and mined) are rated based on the four Cs: cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight, Moissanite is classified solely based on the colour. Moissanite stones are generally classed by colour as Premium (G-H shade) and Superior Premium (D-F colour).

Diamonds are also harder and more durable than Moissanite, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, while Moissanite ranks 9.25. This might sound similar, but over time, Moissanite can scratch or dull more easily, especially in daily-wear pieces like engagement rings.

In terms of value over time, Moissanite vs lab diamond is a stark contrast. Lab-grown diamonds hold the most value and prestige, and Moissanite is thought of as an imitation with a low cost.

The Sparkle Factor: Brilliance and Fire

What people refer to as a stone’s “sparkle” is a combination of brilliance (white light), as well as flame (colored light) and the scintillation (sparkle as the stone moves). Moissanite is more fiery than diamonds and can cause a disco-ball effect when under direct light. This sparkle can appear too bright or fake.

Lab-grown diamonds, like their mined counterparts, shine in a traditional, balanced manner. They are known for their timeless, elegant sparkle. Their single refractive index results in a sparkle that’s iconic and unmistakably diamond-like.

Although the sparkle of Moissanite may entice certain people, it’s not exactly the same as the lustrous sparkle of a diamond.

Price and Perceived Value

One of the main reasons why people buy Moissanite is the price. It’s considerably less expensive than lab-grown or mined diamonds. Often, they cost a fraction of the price. Moissanite prices vary based on the size and quality; however, even the top-end Super Premium Moissanite is still affordable.

Diamonds grown in labs vs. Moissanite pricing is a different story. Although lab-grown diamonds are cheaper than mined diamonds because of the modern methods of production and ethical sources, they are, in the same manner, based on the 4Cs. Each stone is therefore unique. Distinct characteristics that add to its worth and value, as well as its rarity.

The buyers of Moissanite pay for a fake and not a genuine diamond. The buyers of lab-grown diamonds are investing in a real, high-quality, durable, and expensive gemstone.

Sustainability and Ethics

Many people are drawn to the Moissanite market due to ethical considerations, as they believe it’s an alternative that is more sustainable than mined diamonds. However, this notion requires a deeper examination. Most Moissanite on the market is lab-created, but unless the manufacturers use renewable energy sources, their production may involve heavy carbon emissions–especially if powered by coal.

The lab-grown diamonds, like the ones provided through Nature Sparkle, are created by using the latest technology, typically in foundries that are focused on green, renewable energy sources. They are a green and ethical choice for people who are concerned about the impact on the environment.

While both solutions avoid the negative effects of mining in the traditional way, however, lab-grown diamonds are an environmentally-friendly and transparent option.

Moissanite vs Lab Diamond: Which Should You Choose?

The choice between Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds will depend on your needs, but for most, the choice is simple.

If you are looking for quality, longevity, durability, and beauty. A lab-grown diamond is a better option. It is a genuine diamond that is identical to the ones created on Earth; however, it is created in a more modern, ethical and sustainable manner. Lab-grown diamonds have the prestige, value and sparkle that have long made diamonds the focal point of engagement rings as well as exquisite jewelry.

Moissanite is a great value, but while visually appealing, it does not provide the same level of quality, authenticity and worth. Its synthetic nature and apparent distinctions in tint and sparkle are a detrimental choice for a lot of people.

Here at Nature Sparkle, we’re proud to provide the best of both worlds: lab-grown and natural jewelry, high-end diamond jewelry, and customized designs that combine classic beauty and ethical sourcing. Explore our selection and discover a diamond as real as the love you share.