What Are Moissanite Diamonds?

An in-depth overview of what moissanite diamonds are, their origins, and how they differ from natural diamonds.

Moissanite Diamonds: All You Need to Know About This Stunning Alternative to Natural Diamonds

Diamonds have always been the go-to gemstone, especially for engagement rings. But recently, another gemstone has started catching people’s attention: moissanite. Known for its sparkle, durability, and much lower price point, moissanite is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to natural diamonds. First discovered over a century ago, this unique stone is now produced in labs, making it both affordable and accessible. 

According to a 2023 report by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), sales of moissanite have jumped by over 30% in recent years as more people look for eco-friendly and ethically sourced options. 

This article will dive into what moissanite diamonds are, their origins, and why they’re a fantastic option for those wanting sparkle without the high price tag.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a unique gemstone made of silicon carbide, a rare mineral first discovered by chemist Dr. Henri Moissan in 1893. Initially, Dr. Moissan thought he’d found diamonds in a meteorite crater in Arizona, but he later realised it was a brand-new mineral. Given how rare natural moissanite is, the stones used in jewellery today are lab-created, making them far more affordable than diamonds.

How Lab-Grown Moissanite is Made

Natural moissanite is incredibly rare, so scientists began developing lab-grown moissanite to make this beautiful gemstone available to everyone. By replicating natural formation conditions, these labs create stunning stones with a brilliance that rivals—even surpasses—that of diamonds.

Moissanite’s Physical and Visual Qualities

Composition and Hardness

Moissanite is made of silicon carbide, making it extremely hard and durable. Scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, it’s nearly as hard as a diamond (which scores a perfect 10). This means moissanite resists scratching and can easily handle everyday wear.

Brilliance and Sparkle

One of moissanite’s standout qualities is its unique sparkle. It has a higher refractive index (2.65-2.69) than diamonds (2.42), which creates more "fire"—the rainbow flashes of light seen when a gemstone is exposed to light. This often makes moissanite even sparklier than diamonds, which is great for anyone who loves vibrant, eye-catching jewellery.

Colour and Clarity

Moissanite typically comes in a range of colours from near-colourless to faintly yellow or gray. Since lab-grown moissanite has minimal inclusions, it has a clean, consistent look that’s hard to match in natural gemstones.

Moissanite vs. Natural Diamonds: A Side-by-Side Comparison

To make things easy, here’s a table that shows the main differences between moissanite and diamonds:

Key Differences Between Moissanite and Diamonds

1. Appearance and Brilliance

Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which means it reflects more light and has more “fire” or colour flashes. Some people love this extra sparkle, while others might find it a bit too much compared to the classic look of a diamond.

2. Hardness and Durability

Both moissanite and diamonds are durable and scratch-resistant, making them suitable for everyday wear. While diamonds are the hardest natural material on earth, scoring a 10 on the Mohs scale, moissanite comes close with a score of 9.25.

3. Price Comparison

This is where moissanite truly shines (no pun intended!). Moissanite typically costs around 80-90% less than diamonds of a similar size and quality. This price difference makes it an attractive option for people who want a larger stone without the hefty price tag.

4. Environmental and Ethical Impact

Since moissanite is lab-created, it avoids the ethical and environmental issues often associated with diamond mining. A Human Rights Watch report from 2022 noted that lab-grown gemstones, including moissanite, are becoming more popular among those who prioritize ethical and eco-friendly choices.

5. Resale Value

Diamonds tend to have a stronger resale market, while moissanite’s resale value is generally lower. Moissanite is best for those who want an affordable, long-lasting gem rather than an investment stone.

Pros and Cons of Choosing Moissanite

Advantages of Moissanite

Affordable: Moissanite is much more budget-friendly than diamonds, ideal for cost-conscious buyers.

Durable: With its high hardness and scratch resistance, moissanite is perfect for everyday wear.

Eco-Friendly: Being lab-created, moissanite avoids the environmental impact of mining.

Unique Sparkle: For anyone who loves a lot of sparkle, moissanite’s high fire and brilliance offer a captivating look.

Disadvantages of Moissanite

Lower Resale Value: Moissanite doesn’t retain its value like diamonds.

Considered an “Alternative” Gem: Some see moissanite as less prestigious due to its lab-grown origin.

Distinct Look: Moissanite’s intense sparkle may not suit those who prefer the subtler look of a diamond.

Moissanite Compared to Other Diamond Alternatives

Compared to options like cubic zirconia (CZ) and lab-grown diamonds, moissanite stands out. It’s much more durable than CZ and has superior optical qualities. Unlike lab-grown diamonds, which are chemically identical to natural diamonds, moissanite offers a unique look that some people find even more captivating.

Caring for Moissanite Jewellery

Moissanite is simple to care for and doesn’t require much maintenance. You can keep it looking beautiful by washing it with mild soap and warm water. To avoid dulling its shine, keep it away from harsh chemicals, and store it in a soft pouch or jewellery box to prevent scratches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Moissanite a Real Diamond?
No, moissanite is made of silicon carbide, while diamonds are made of carbon. However, moissanite closely resembles a diamond and is often chosen as an alternative.

Does Moissanite Pass a Diamond Tester?
Usually, it doesn’t. Diamond testers measure thermal conductivity, and while moissanite is similar, it’s different enough that it typically won’t pass.

Is Moissanite as Durable as a Diamond?
Almost! Moissanite is extremely durable with a 9.25 rating on the Mohs scale, though diamonds are slightly harder.

Why is Moissanite Cheaper Than Diamonds?
Moissanite is lab-created, making it more affordable to produce. Natural diamonds require mining and come with a higher price due to their rarity.

Can You Tell the Difference Between Moissanite and Diamond?
Visually, moissanite has a different sparkle with more colour flashes. Jewellers can easily distinguish the two with a loupe or tester.

Conclusion

Moissanite diamonds are a beautiful, affordable, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional diamonds. They combine beauty, durability, and affordability, making them perfect for those looking for a stunning gemstone without breaking the bank. For anyone considering a gemstone that balances elegance, strength, and ethical production, moissanite is a gem worth exploring.