Moissanite vs Diamond: Which One Suits You?

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.

From a distance, diamonds and moissanite can look quite similar, but as you draw near, the differences become more apparent.

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.

Both diamonds and moissanite come in a range of that fulfill the desire for a unique style. Diamonds are known for their classic colorless allure, but they also come in a variety of hues to suit your taste. Many moissanite stones feature some subtle tint of color, though there are also many that are fully clear.

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.

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.

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.

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.

If you’re still looking for the ring that is quintessentially you, we’re here to offer our expert guidance and stellar services to ensure that you find the ring that is beautifully suited to your taste. To ensure that you feel as thrilled as you should be when making this special purchase, we offer free returns. You can also count on us for complimentary ring sizing to ensure an ideal fit and complimentary cleaning to keep your gemstones sparkling like new. To learn about other gorgeous engagement ring stone options, read our comprehensive gemstone guide