How to Choose the Perfect Moissanite Diamond for Your Engagement Ring

Choosing the right engagement ring is a big decision, and for many people, moissanite has become an appealing alternative to traditional diamonds. Known for its brilliant sparkle, durability, and ethical sourcing, moissanite offers a beautiful, budget-friendly option that’s growing in popularity. However, picking the perfect moissanite stone can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with all the factors to consider, such as shape, size, colour, clarity, and setting.

This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know about selecting a moissanite diamond for your engagement ring, helping you make a confident choice that aligns with both your style and budget.

Why Choose Moissanite?

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone with unique qualities that often exceed those of traditional diamonds. First discovered in meteorite fragments, moissanite today is synthesised in labs, ensuring it’s ethically sourced and environmentally friendly. It’s highly durable, with a score of 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it ideal for daily wear. Plus, moissanite has a high refractive index, giving it a sparkle that’s even more intense than a diamond’s.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Right Moissanite for Your Engagement Ring

When selecting a moissanite stone, there are several key factors to consider. Here’s a structured approach to help you find a stone that suits your preferences and lifestyle.

1. Decide on the Shape

The shape of your moissanite stone affects its overall look and how it reflects light. Each shape offers a different style and can highlight various aspects of the stone’s brilliance.

Popular Moissanite Shapes
Common shapes for moissanite include round, princess, oval, cushion, emerald, and pear. Round is a classic favourite for its symmetry and sparkle, while oval and pear shapes have a flattering, elongating effect. Cushion and princess cuts offer a blend of vintage and modern appeal, and the emerald cut provides a sleek, sophisticated look.

Choosing a Shape to Suit Your Style
When picking a shape, consider both your personal style and the ring’s setting. Round and cushion cuts work beautifully in solitaire settings, while pear and oval cuts often pair well with halo settings. Also, consider your hand shape—oval or pear can elongate shorter fingers, while round and square shapes tend to look good on all hands.

2. Determine the Right Size

Knowing the difference between carat weight and visual size can help you choose a moissanite stone that meets your budget without compromising on appearance.

Carat vs. Visual Size
Carat refers to the stone’s weight, not its size. Because moissanite is less dense than diamond, a 1-carat moissanite may look slightly larger than a 1-carat diamond, allowing you to enjoy a more prominent look for less. This size advantage is particularly appealing if you want a larger-looking stone without the high cost.

Popular Carat Sizes
Many UK buyers choose moissanite stones between 1 and 2 carats, which offer noticeable size without being too overwhelming for everyday wear. If you’re looking for a stone that feels substantial yet comfortable, a size in this range strikes the perfect balance.

3. Choose the Right Colour Grade

Moissanite comes in various shades, from completely colourless to stones with a slight tint. Deciding on a colour grade can help you achieve your desired look and ensure the stone complements your ring’s setting.

Moissanite Colour Grading
Moissanite is graded on a scale similar to diamonds, with colourless grades (D-F) offering a bright, icy look that closely resembles high-quality diamonds. Near-colourless grades (G-H) may have a subtle warmth, which pairs well with yellow or rose gold for a classic style. 

Here’s a quick reference:

Matching with Setting and Metal Colour
If you’re opting for a white gold or platinum setting, a colourless moissanite in the D-F range will create a classic diamond-like effect. If you prefer a vintage look, near-colourless stones look lovely with yellow or rose gold settings.

4. Consider the Right Clarity Level

Clarity refers to the presence of any internal or external imperfections, known as inclusions or blemishes. Moissanite is lab-grown, so it generally has high clarity, with most stones graded in the VS (Very Slightly Included) to IF (Internally Flawless) range.

Understanding Clarity Grades
Moissanite is graded similarly to diamonds, though due to its lab-grown nature, it usually has fewer inclusions. VS clarity stones are popular, as they have minor inclusions that are invisible to the naked eye. IF and VVS clarity stones provide the highest clarity for those seeking a flawless appearance.

Clarity Tips for Budget and Appearance
Opting for a VS clarity grade can offer a visually flawless look without the added cost of an IF stone. Since most inclusions in moissanite are microscopic, you’ll still enjoy a high-quality appearance even at a slightly lower clarity grade.

5. Match Your Moissanite with the Right Setting

The setting enhances and protects the stone. Choosing a setting that suits both your style and lifestyle will ensure your ring is beautiful and practical.

Popular Settings for Moissanite Rings
Solitaire settings are timeless and showcase the stone’s beauty, while halo settings add extra sparkle. Three-stone and vintage-style settings offer a unique aesthetic, ideal for those who prefer something with a bit of character.

Setting Tips Based on Lifestyle
For those with an active lifestyle, a bezel or low-profile setting can add durability and protect the stone from impacts. If sparkle is your priority, a prong or cathedral setting will allow light to hit the stone from multiple angles, enhancing its brilliance.

6. Decide on a Budget

Establishing a budget helps you prioritise which qualities are most important to you. One of moissanite’s greatest advantages is that it offers the beauty of a diamond without the hefty price.

Budgeting Tips for Moissanite Rings
If sparkle is key, consider investing in a higher cut quality, as this will affect brilliance more than any other factor. If size is your main goal, opting for a lower colour or clarity grade can allow you to afford a larger stone while staying within budget.

Additional Considerations for Moissanite Engagement Rings

Ethical and Sustainable Benefits
Moissanite is an excellent choice for those who value ethics in their purchases. Lab-grown and sustainable, moissanite is free from the environmental and ethical concerns associated with diamond mining. As more UK buyers seek out responsibly sourced jewellery, moissanite has become a popular option.

Where to Buy
Choosing a reputable jeweller ensures you’ll receive a high-quality moissanite stone with clear documentation on its grading. While online retailers may offer competitive prices, purchasing in-store provides the advantage of seeing the stone up close. Look for retailers with clear return policies, especially if you’re buying online.

FAQs on Choosing a Moissanite Engagement Ring

What is the best shape for a moissanite engagement ring?

Popular shapes include round, cushion, and oval. The best shape depends on your personal style and preference for sparkle.

How does moissanite size compare to diamond size?

Moissanite often appears slightly larger than a diamond of the same carat weight, giving you more visual impact for less.

What colour grade should I choose for moissanite?

Colourless (D-F) grades are ideal for a diamond-like appearance, while near-colourless (G-H) stones pair well with yellow or rose gold.

How can I ensure a moissanite stone is high quality?

High-quality moissanite has good cut, clarity, and minimal inclusions. Buying from a reputable jeweller with certification ensures you’re getting a top-grade stone.

What are the ethical benefits of choosing moissanite?

Moissanite is lab-grown, making it eco-friendly and free from the ethical issues associated with diamond mining.

Conclusion

Choosing moissanite allows you to enjoy a beautiful, durable, and ethical engagement ring. By understanding the impact of shape, size, colour, clarity, and setting, you can select a moissanite stone that reflects your style and values. With its affordability and eco-friendly appeal, moissanite is an excellent choice for today’s jewellery trends in the UK.