In today’s jewellery market, buyers are seeking alternatives to mined diamonds that are both ethical and affordable. Two leading contenders in this space are the moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds. While both options offer brilliance and value, they are distinct in origin, composition, and appearance. Understanding the difference between a moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds is crucial for making the right choice, especially if you’re investing in an engagement ring or other fine jewellery.
The Origins of Moissanite Diamond and Lab Made Diamonds
The moissanite diamond was first discovered in 1893 French scientist Henri Moissan in a meteor crater. Initially mistaken for diamond, it was later identified as silicon carbide. Today, the moissanite diamond is created exclusively in laboratories because it’s extremely rare in nature. In contrast, lab made diamonds are grown using high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods, replicating the natural conditions under which diamonds form. Although both are created in labs, lab made diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds, while a moissanite diamond is a different gemstone altogether.
Composition and Structure: Moissanite vs Lab Made Diamonds
While a moissanite diamond shares visual similarities with real diamonds, it is composed of silicon carbide. This gives the moissanite diamond a unique sparkle, often showing rainbow flashes that differ from the white light reflection in lab made diamonds. Lab made diamonds, on the other hand, are composed of pure carbon in a crystal structure identical to natural diamonds. This difference in composition is key when comparing a moissanite diamond with lab made diamonds, especially if authenticity and identical properties are important to you.
Brilliance and Fire: A Visual Comparison
One of the standout features of a moissanite diamond is its high refractive index, which gives it more fire and brilliance than a traditional diamond. While this can be attractive to some, others may find the rainbow sparkle a bit too flashy or artificial-looking. Lab made diamonds, contrast, reflect light in the same way natural diamonds do, giving them a subtler, classic brilliance. Choosing between a moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds often comes down to personal preference and the type of sparkle you desire in your jewellery.
Durability and Hardness
The moissanite diamond is second only to diamond in hardness, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale. This makes it an excellent option for daily wear and engagement rings. However, lab made diamonds, being true diamonds, score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. While the difference in hardness between a moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds may seem small, it can affect long-term durability, especially in high-contact settings. For those who want maximum scratch resistance, lab made diamonds remain the top choice.
Price Comparison: Moissanite vs Lab Made Diamonds
One of the most compelling advantages of a moissanite diamond is its cost. Typically, a moissanite diamond costs significantly less than lab made diamonds of a similar size. For budget-conscious buyers who still want a large, sparkly stone, moissanite offers great value. However, lab made diamonds provide more authenticity and investment value. The price difference between a moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds reflects their chemical makeup and market demand, making it a decision based on priorities and preferences.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations
Both the moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds score high marks for being ethical alternatives to mined diamonds. Since they are lab-created, neither involves mining or questionable labor practices. In this sense, choosing a moissanite diamond or lab made diamonds is a responsible choice for environmentally and socially conscious buyers. However, lab made diamonds carry more weight in the luxury market due to their identical nature to mined diamonds. This makes the moissanite diamond a strong ethical option, though lab made diamonds offer more prestige.
Certification and Market Perception
When purchasing a moissanite diamond, you’ll typically receive a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer, but not from major gemological labs like GIA or IGI, as they do not grade moissanite. On the other hand, lab made diamonds can be graded and certified respected institutions like GIA and IGI, providing detailed reports on cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight. This certification gives lab made diamonds a distinct advantage over the moissanite diamond in terms of transparency and resale value.
Jewellery Styles and Settings
Both the moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds are available in a wide range of styles and settings. Whether you’re looking for a classic solitaire, vintage halo, or modern tension setting, you can find beautiful options using either gemstone. However, due to their higher value and authentic properties, lab made diamonds are more often used in high-end custom pieces and designer collections. The moissanite diamond, while beautiful, is often chosen for more budget-friendly designs.
Who Should Choose Moissanite Diamond?
The moissanite diamond is ideal for those seeking maximum sparkle on a smaller budget. It’s a great choice for couples who want a big, eye-catching stone without the high price tag. If you value durability, ethical sourcing, and a vibrant look, the moissanite diamond delivers. However, if you’re looking for a stone that’s indistinguishable from a mined diamond and holds more traditional value, lab made diamonds may be the better fit.
Final Verdict: Moissanite Diamond or Lab Made Diamonds?
Choosing between a moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds ultimately depends on your goals. If you want a stunning, affordable, and ethical gem, the moissanite diamond is an excellent option. For those who prefer authenticity, long-term value, and classic brilliance, lab made diamonds offer the best of both worlds — luxury and sustainability. No matter which you choose, both the moissanite diamond and lab made diamonds represent the future of fine jewellery: ethical, modern, and undeniably beautiful.