Moissanite vs. Lab Diamond: What’s the Difference?

Looking for an alternative to diamond rings? Diamond rings are the most traditional choice for engagement rings, but they can be quite expensive. Consider moissanite rings and lab-grown diamond rings as alternatives. If you’re not familiar with them, let’s analyze the differences and pros and cons of these two gemstones together:

What is a Lab Diamond?

Lab grown diamonds, also known as lab created diamonds, are synthetic gemstones manufactured in a laboratory using CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) or HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) processes. They have the same structure and chemical properties as natural diamonds.

What is Moissanite?

Most moissanite on the market is lab-created because natural moissanite is extremely rare. Moissanite is made from silicon carbide and closely resembles diamonds in appearance, making it a popular diamond alternative.

What are the Differences Between Moissanite and Lab Diamonds?

Data source Wikipedia

According to the above data, it can be seen that there are many differences between moissanite and lab diamonds:

First from the Mohs hardness value to analyze: hardness on the laboratory diamond is better, Mohs hardness value and natural diamonds as 10, are the world’s most durable gemstones.

Then from the refractive index and dispersion value to analyze: moissanite has a double refractive index, which is higher than the refractive index of the laboratory diamonds; the dispersion value is more than twice the laboratory diamonds, we all know that the refractive index affects the reflection of the light, dispersion affects the color of the light, and thus moissanite’s brilliance and fire than the laboratory diamonds to be more sparkling.

Finally, let’s analyze the price: laboratory diamonds based on the natural diamonds of the long term reputation and marketing effect of the price is naturally higher than the laboratory diamonds than moissanite prices, about more than twice as much as moissanite ranging.

Should I choose moissanite or lab diamonds? Just read below.

What are the Pros and Cons of Moissanite?

Pros:

– High hardness, second only to diamonds, suitable for daily wear and resistant to scratching.

– Double refraction and high dispersion, giving it a rainbow-like fire.

– Lower price, only half or less than lab diamonds.

– Environmentally friendly, like lab diamonds, they do not require mining and do not harm the environment.

Cons:

– Small secondary market for resale, less investment value.

– Does not carry the same deep meaning as traditional diamonds.

What are the Pros and Cons of Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Pros:

– Lower price, usually only half or less than natural diamonds.

– Environmentally friendly, no need for mining, preserving Earth’s resources.

– Controllable quality, lab manufacturing can control quality, resulting in higher overall diamond quality standards.

– High hardness, like diamonds, strong durability.

Cons:

– Not as meaningful as natural diamonds.

Who is moissanite for?

– Lower budget and durable.

– Love the rainbow glow.

Who are lab diamonds for?

– Love the story behind the diamond, but have a low budget.

– People who don’t value the naturalness of gemstones are more environmentally and ethically conscious.

Which is better, moissanite or lab diamonds?

It depends on your preferences and budget. Both gemstones are highly durable and suitable for engagement ring wear.

How Much 1ct Moissanite Ring?

$200 – $600.

How Much 1ct Lab Diamond Ring?

$500-$12000, Depending on the quality (the 4 Cs).

Conclusion:

When choosing between different gemstones, you can make your choice based on your needs and budget. If you seek a more dazzling sparkle and want a highly durable gemstone ring at a lower cost, then moissanite rings will be a better choice. If you value tradition, like the beautiful stories behind diamonds, then lab grown diamond rings will be more suitable for you. Regardless of which gemstone you choose, you and the story behind the gemstone are the most precious.