Moissanite vs Diamond: Which One Suits You?
Origins and Rarity
Diamonds can be found naturally or they can be created in a lab. Diamonds are the hardest substance on earth, made of pure carbon that has undergone intense heat and pressure. However, they are not the rarest gemstone—it is a particular diamond’s color, clarity, carat and, eventually, cut, that makes it uniquely valuable.
Moissanite is very rare to find in nature, as it originates from outer space and is naturally found in meteorites that have landed on Earth. Therefore, most moissanite stones are lab-created, which makes them a very eco-conscious choice.
Appearance
Sparkle
Diamonds flaunt a famous sparkle that is widely known and loved, with plenty of fire and refraction to mesmerize the eye.
Moissanite boasts even more brilliance than a diamond, with a higher rating on the refractive index. Moissanite also features more fire than a diamond, with its facets refracting light into a dramatic rainbow of hues that make it a particularly attention-drawing stone. The choice between the two stones is entirely dependent on the personality and preferences of the wearer.
Color
Clarity
Gemstone clarity is important, too. A perfectly flawless diamond is extremely rare and precious. However, many of the inclusions or blemishes in a diamond can be impossible to see without magnification and training. The Gemological Institute of America clarity grading scale is used to sort diamonds according to their clarity.
Due to their lab-created origin, most moissanites are nearly flawless. An average moissanite stone would rank at a desirable “Very Slightly Included,” or “VS” level, using the diamond’s GIA clarity grading scale.
Hardness & Wearability
Diamonds are the hardest substance on earth. Scoring an unparalleled 10 on the Mohs Scale, they’re an ideal choice for everyday wear, since they cannot be scratched except by another diamond.
Moissanite features a 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it very hard and durable as well. It is also resistant to chipping or breaking, making it a fantastic stone for everyday wear.
Enhancements
Most gemstones on the market today undergo one or more enhancements. Diamonds can be treated to enhance or change their color or to improve the appearance of their clarity. HPHT (high-pressure, high-temperature) treatments, heat treatments, irradiation and coatings can give a diamond a new color or enhance its natural hue. Laser drilling can be done to remove imperfections, and fracture filling can fill in white fractures and make them less noticeable.
Because moissanite usually has excellent clarity, most of the treatments focus on color. HPHT treatments are available to adjust or enhance moissanite’s color for a beautiful alternative look.
Meanings and Symbolism
Diamonds are a renowned symbol of love and faithfulness, and they have a long history of use in engagement rings. Colorless diamonds are a sign of purity, and the unparalleled hardness of the diamond makes it a natural symbol of power.
All gemstones have special meaning. Moissanites feature exceptional hardness as well, making them symbolic of the strength of your bond and love. Because natural moissanites come from meteorites originating in space, they also are a sign of connectedness to the universe. They can also be a symbol of unlocking potential, which can bring ongoing meaning as your relationship grows.
Popular Ring Styles and Settings
Diamonds come in a wide range of cuts to showcase the beauty of the stone and suit your personality. Cut is different from shape, which describes the outline of the gemstone when you’re looking down on it. The is all about symmetry, balance, and bringing out a stone’s natural beauty while minimizing its flaws. The classic round cut, elegant square-shaped princess cut, sophisticated cushion cut and vintage-inspired emerald cut are popular for engagement rings.
Moissanite, like diamonds, can feature a wide range of cuts, but round cuts best showcase its renowned fire and brilliance. The radiant cut is also dramatic, designed for moissanite to give it an alluring rectangular shape while maximizing its sparkle. The princess cut is a traditional option that showcases the fire of the stone. A more contemporary trilliant cut is also a stunning choice, as it enhances the dazzling quality but gives a ring an edgy, modern style.
With such a breathtaking array to choose from, selecting a cut is truly up to the personality and style of the wearer.
Caring for Your Diamond or Blue Moissanite Jewelry
- Like all fine jewelry, both diamond and moissanite rings should be cleaned and checked regularly for loose stones or any repairs needed to the settings regularly.
- Proper gemstone care is essential for lifelong enjoyment of your ring.
- Moissanite’s make-up of silicon carbide naturally fends off build-up, but a routine cleaning ensures that it always looks its best.
Blue Nile Promise
How Do Other Gemstones Compare to Diamonds?
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