Moissanite vs Diamond - What You Need to Know Before You Buy

Moissanite and diamonds are popular choices for engagement rings, but they differ in key ways. Diamonds are prized for their natural rarity, unmatched hardness, and classic brilliance, while moissanite offers a more affordable, eco-friendly alternative with exceptional sparkle and durability. Understanding these differences, including price, appearance, and origin, will help you make an informed choice that fits your style and budget before you buy.

What is Moissanite & What Makes it Different From Diamond

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone made from silicon carbide, while natural diamonds are made from carbon, formed deep within the Earth under intense pressure. Both are popular in fine jewellery but differ significantly in origin, composition, value, and other properties. Lab-grown diamonds, created through advanced technology, offer a middle ground with the same composition as natural diamonds but with more ethical sourcing and environmental benefits

How They Look Side by Side

Moissanite and diamonds may look very similar at first glance, with most people unable to tell them apart without special tools. However, they differ subtly in appearance. Moissanite tends to display more sparkle and vibrant rainbow flashes, especially under natural light, while diamonds reflect more white light, giving them a classic, timeless look. These differences become more noticeable to the trained eye or under specific lighting conditions.

Here’s a side-by-side look at moissanite vs. diamond:

Which One Is Harder and More Durable

Moissanite ranks at 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, while diamonds top the scale at a perfect 10. Both stones are durable enough for daily wear, making them excellent choices for engagement rings. However, for heirloom quality and the utmost long-term durability, diamonds still hold the edge due to their superior hardness and resistance to scratches.

Comparing Colour and Clarity

High-grade moissanite appears nearly colourless and closely resembles top-quality D-F grade diamonds, though it may show a subtle yellow or grey tint under certain lighting. Being lab-created, moissanite typically has fewer inclusions compared to natural diamonds, which vary widely in colour and clarity grades due to their natural formation.

How Much Each One Costs

Moissanite is significantly more affordable than diamonds of the same size, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. Diamonds command higher prices due to their natural rarity, strong demand, and skilled craftsmanship. This price difference also reflects the long-term value and cultural tradition associated with diamonds.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

While we don’t sell moissanite stones, we do offer both lab-grown and natural diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds, like moissanite, have minimal environmental impact and are conflict-free. At DX Diamonds, we proudly provide high-quality lab-grown and natural diamonds sourced responsibly for our customers.

What Happens if You Want to Resell

Diamonds generally retain their value over time, making them suitable for resale or as heirlooms to be passed down through generations. In contrast, moissanite tends to have limited resale appeal and lower long-term recognition.

Diamond vs. Moissanite: Which Is Better for Engagement Rings

Diamonds remain the traditional standard for engagement rings both in Australia and worldwide. While moissanite appeals to budget-conscious couples, it lacks the authenticity, long-term recognition, and emotional significance of a diamond. Lab-grown diamonds, available at DX Diamonds, provide the same beauty and durability as natural diamonds at a more affordable price, offering a compelling alternative for couples seeking value without compromise.