Choosing between lab diamonds vs moissanite can be tough when you consider the differences between the two.
Both lab grown gems are ethical and sustainable alternatives to mined diamonds for the eco friendly consumer.
But they are very different in appearance, durability and price.
This guide will break down the differences so you can make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and budget.
Whether you want a traditional diamond look or something unique, understanding the differences between lab diamonds and moissanite is key to making the right choice for your jewelry needs.
Lab Diamond vs Moissanite
History
Lab Diamonds: Lab created diamonds were first produced in the 1950s.
Technology has come a long way since then, and now we can produce high quality diamonds that are identical to natural.
This makes diamonds more accessible and eliminates the environmental and ethical issues of diamond mining.
Moissanite: Discovered in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan in a meteor crater, moissanite was named after him.
Initially thought to be diamonds, these crystals are now synthetically produced because they are so rare in nature.
Moissanite hit the jewelry market in the late 90s and quickly became a diamond alternative.
What is a Lab Diamond?
They have the same physical, chemical and optical properties as mined diamonds, so they are virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.
Lab diamonds are graded on the same 4Cs as natural diamonds (cut, color, clarity and carat weight) so you can be confident in the stone you are buying.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a gemstone made from silicon carbide, first found in a meteor crater.
Natural moissanite is very rare, so the ones available on the market are created in a lab.
Moissanite is known for its brilliance and has a higher refractive index than diamonds, so it shines extra brightly.
It’s also a durable and affordable option, often used in different types of jewelry.
Key Differences
Sparkle and Fire
One of the biggest differences between lab diamonds and moissanite is sparkle.
Moissanite has a higher refractive index (2.65-2.69) than diamonds (2.42), which means it has more fire and brilliance.
Moissanite will show more rainbow like flashes of light where as diamonds will show a more subtle sparkle with white light.
Color and Clarity
Lab diamonds come in a range of colors from colorless (D) to light yellow (Z) and also fancy colors like blue, pink and yellow.
Moissanite is traditionally known for its slight yellow or greenish tint but now comes in nearly colorless grades due to advances in production.
However, under certain lighting conditions, moissanite can show a warmer hue.
Hardness and Durability
On the Mohs scale of hardness, diamonds score a 10, which is the hardest mineral known.
This hardness makes diamonds very resistant to scratching and damage.
Moissanite scores 9.25, the second hardest gemstone used in jewelry.
While not as hard as diamonds, moissanite is still very durable and suitable for daily wear.
Price and Affordability
Price is a big factor for many buyers.
Lab diamonds are generally more expensive than moissanite due to the process involved in creating them and their similarity to natural diamonds.
A 1 carat lab diamond can cost several thousand dollars where as a similar sized moissanite can cost a fraction of that.
This makes moissanite a great option for budget conscious buyers.
Who Should Choose Moissanite?
- Budget Savers: Moissanite is much cheaper than lab diamonds, making it perfect for those looking for a beautiful but budget-friendly option.
- Sparkle Seekers: If you like a gemstone with a more colorful sparkle, moissanite’s higher refractive index is for you.
- Ethical Buyers: Both moissanite and lab diamonds are ethical, but moissanite is the more affordable option for those who prioritize sustainability.
Who Should Choose Lab Diamonds?
- Diamond Traditionalists: If you want the classic look of a diamond with its timeless white sparkle, lab diamonds are for you.
- Durability Seekers: With their unmatched hardness, lab diamonds are perfect for those who need a gemstone that can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Value Seekers: While lab diamonds are more expensive, they have better resale value and come with certification to ensure quality and authenticity.
Can You Tell the Difference?
To the naked eye, it’s hard to tell the difference between a lab diamond and moissanite, especially when set in jewelry.
But under magnification, moissanite’s double refraction will give it away.
Professional jewelers can use special equipment to tell the difference.
Buying Tips
When buying either lab diamonds or moissanite, make sure to buy from reputable retailers.
Make sure the stone comes with certification and a detailed description of its properties so you know you’re getting a high quality, genuine gemstone.
Customization and Availability
Lab Diamonds: Available in all shapes, colors and sizes, lab diamonds are fully customizable.
They can be made to match your design preferences so perfect for bespoke jewellery.
Moissanite: While mostly available in near colourless, moissanite is also available in various shapes and sizes.
However, customization options are slightly limited compared to lab diamonds.
Care and Maintenance
Lab Diamonds: Due to their hardness (10) lab diamonds are scratch and damage resistant.
They require very little maintenance and can be cleaned with standard jewelry cleaning methods.
Moissanite: While slightly softer than diamonds (9.25) moissanite is still very durable.
It’s scratch and chip resistant but should be handled with care to keep it sparkling.
Regular cleaning will keep moissanite jewelry shining.
Popular Myths
Lab Diamonds: Some people think lab diamonds are “fake” or inferior to mined diamonds. They are not.
They have the same properties and are often indistinguishable from natural diamonds without special equipment.
Moissanite: Many think moissanite is just a cheap diamond imitation.
It’s more affordable, but it’s a gemstone in its own right with its own properties and beauty.
Conclusion
In the debate of lab diamond vs moissanite, at the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference, budget, and appearance.
Lab diamonds offer a timeless look, great durability, and resale value, so if you want a classic, long-lasting gemstone, they are for you.
Moissanite offers a unique sparkle at a fraction of the cost, so if you’re on a budget or looking for an ethical and affordable alternative, moissanite is for you.
Both are great ethical alternatives to natural diamonds, each with their own benefits.
Whatever you choose, the classic look of a lab diamond or the sparkle of moissanite you can’t go wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lab diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, lab diamonds are real diamonds with the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds.
How does moissanite compare in hardness to lab diamonds?
Moissanite is slightly softer, with a Mohs hardness of 9.25, compared to diamonds’ perfect 10, but it is still very durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Why is moissanite so much cheaper than lab diamonds?
Moissanite’s lower cost is due to its different composition and the simpler, less expensive production process compared to lab diamonds.
Can moissanite be colorless like lab diamonds?
Yes, advancements in moissanite production have resulted in nearly colorless stones, though they may still exhibit a slight tint under certain lighting conditions.