Natural Diamond vs. Moissanite: What's the Difference & Which is Better?

Choosing an engagement ring is a lifetime decision, but it can be confusing when it comes to deciding between moissanite and natural diamonds. Both gemstones share many similar properties, yet they also have significant differences to consider. 

Traditionally, diamonds have been the pinnacle of elegance and luxury. However, moissanite, a gemstone discovered over a century ago, has emerged as a compelling alternative. The good news? Moissanite is one of the best options in the market for anyone seeking an affordable, long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to diamonds.

But will moissanite look as pretty as a diamond? Is it durable? Is it expensive to maintain? These are just a few questions that come to mind when considering moissanite as a diamond alternative.

In this blog, you will find all the answers you are looking for, helping you make an informed purchase decision.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite was first discovered in a meteorite crater and is made from silicon carbide. While originally rare, scientists can now create it in labs, producing a gem that seems twinkling and radiant than diamonds. This quality allows moissanite to reflect more light, giving it a dazzling sparkle that rivals diamonds.

As a lab-created gemstone, moissanite offers an ethical and affordable alternative to traditional diamonds, and who doesn’t like affordability? Its sustainable production and lower cost make it increasingly popular among those seeking beauty, durability, and value in their engagement rings.

What is a Natural Diamond?

A gemstone that is formed over billions of years under intense heat and pressure crafts its beauty and gives it luxury. In scientific terminology, diamonds consist of carbon atoms systematically organized in a crystalline structure. They are mined from deep within the earth, often raising ethical and environmental concerns.

Difference Between Moissanite and Natural Diamond

Now that we have understood the formation of Moissanite and Natural Diamond let’s discuss their differences for making a better decision while purchasing.

Appearance

Wonder you are holding both gemstones in your hand, which will look prettier?

Well, While looking at Diamond you will notice beautiful white and colored flashes. Its refraction index which is the ability of a stone to bend light is 2.42 but the refraction index of a Moissanite is 2.65-2.69, higher than the natural diamond, which makes it possible for a Moissanite to have more brilliance and fire as compared to a diamond. While looking at a Moissanite you can notice more rainbow flashes of light which enhances its appearance.

While seen from a distance, both Moissanite and Diamond can look similar, but there are significant colour differences between both. Nowadays Moissanite is available in higher colour and clarity because of the technology upgrades, making it a preferred alternative for jewel lovers. If you are looking for a clear gemstone in an affordable range it is difficult to find a diamond, but a Moissanite can be a perfect fit, Moissanite is crafted in Laboratories which makes it eye-clear. It’s nearly impossible to find clarity imperfections in a Moissanite but Diamond can have them since they are mined naturally. Moissanite is clearer and flawless almost all the time.

Durability

There is not a lot of difference one can notice when it comes to the hardness of both gemstones. Diamonds score a perfect 10 being the hardest known natural material but even if Moissanite are crafted in laboratories it scores 9.25, making it the second hardest material used in a gemstone. Both the gemstones are highly durable, resisting scratching and abrasion.

Cost

Everybody loves affordable options even in the case of gemstones. Tell me, If you were given the option to buy a beautiful diamond ring or a moissanite ring with the same brilliance at a lower cost, which one would you pick?

Both gemstones share almost similar properties when it comes to brilliance, spark, durability, hardness, and looks but where comes the main difference is in the price range both offer to the customer. Moissanite is a much more pocket-friendly gemstone as compared to diamond without the compromise of appearance, which means you can purchase a larger stone at a lower price.

When it comes to the resale value, diamonds can be quite unpredictable. While their value can increase over the long term, they are not typically recommended as an investment. If you ever decide to sell a diamond, you might find that you will lose money compared to what you originally paid. This is because the retail price includes various markups for things like branding, marketing, and profit margins for jewellers. On the other hand, moissanite is significantly more affordable upfront. While it doesn't have the same resale value as diamonds, it offers excellent value for money. Moissanite is a great choice for those looking for a beautiful, durable, and budget-friendly alternative without the concerns of fluctuating resale prices.

Maintenance Comparison

Despite the toughness and excellent properties of diamond, it can still attract dirt and oil, which can dull its sparkle over some time. Diamonds need to be cleaned regularly to maintain its brilliance.

Moissanite offers lower maintenance compared to diamond as they can naturally repel dust and oil better than a diamond, which helps it to maintain its spark with less frequent cleaning.

Conclusion

Both Diamond and Moissanite have unique attributes, catering to different preferences and values. If you're seeking a budget-friendly option that offers the flawless brilliance of a diamond, than Moissanite is the perfect choice. With nearly all the qualities of a diamond, Moissanite provides exceptional sparkle and durability at a fraction of the cost. It's all about preference! Choose Moissanite for a stunning, affordable alternative that doesn't compromise on beauty or quality.

FAQs

• Which is more expensive: Natural Diamond or Moissanite?
  Natural diamonds are much more expensive than moissanite or any other alternative gemstone. While a diamond ring can cost anywhere between $2,000 to $20,000, a moissanite ring with similar brilliance can be priced between $400 and $600. Moissanite is a more budget-friendly option without compromising appearance and beauty.
• Is Moissanite as good as Natural Diamonds?
  Moissanite has many qualities similar to diamonds, including sparkle, durability, and brilliance. While diamonds are known for their luxury, moissanite can offer nearly the same beauty at a fraction of the price. It's a great alternative if you're looking for something stunning but more affordable.
• How do I care for Moissanite Jewelry?
  Moissanite is low-maintenance. Unlike diamonds, it repels dirt and oil better, so it doesn't need to be cleaned as often. A gentle cleaning with soap, water, and a soft brush will keep it sparkling for a long time.
• Is Moissanite as durable as a Natural Diamond?
  Both stones are very durable. Diamonds are the hardest natural material, scoring 10 on the hardness scale. Moissanite, though created in labs, is also tough and scores 9.25, making it resistant to scratches and suitable for daily wear.
• How does the clarity of Moissanite compare to that of Natural Diamonds?
  Moissanite is typically clearer than diamonds because it’s made in a lab and has fewer imperfections. Diamonds, being naturally formed, may have slight flaws. If you want a flawless gem, moissanite is usually the better choice.
• Can Moissanite be used in the same settings as Natural Diamonds?
  Yes, Moissanite can be used in the same jewelry settings as diamonds. Whether it’s for an engagement ring, necklace, or earrings, moissanite works perfectly in all traditional diamond settings.