When it comes to gemstones in fine jewelry, diamonds are the classic choice.
They’re world-renowned and instantly recognized due to their hallmark sparkle and beauty.
Diamonds have become so popular over the years to the point that technology has been created to create diamond simulants.
Diamond simulants, as the name suggests, are stones that are meant to mimic diamonds. One of the more popular simulants you’ll come across today is moissanite.
At first glance, moissanite and diamonds may look similar, but the similarities end there. While both stones share a similar appearance, diamonds stand apart in origin, durability, and lasting value, making them the true standard of fine jewelry.
In this article, we’ll explain what makes diamonds and moissanite different, and why diamonds continue to be the preferred choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces.
As Milwaukee’s trusted source for fine jewelry, we’re proud to help you understand these differences so you can choose a gem that best fits your needs.
What Are Diamonds, and Where Do They Come From?
Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth through a natural process that takes billions of years.
It’s during this process that carbon atoms are exposed to extreme heat and pressure (around 1400 degrees Celsius and 45 kilobars). Over time, these conditions cause the carbon atoms to bond together in a 3D crystal lattice pattern, creating a diamond.
Diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, meaning they’re extremely resistant to scratching (harder than any other mineral or gem).
Besides their beauty, it’s this durability that makes diamonds great gemstones for milestone pieces that are meant to last, like engagement rings and heirloom pieces.
What Is Moissanite?
Whereas diamonds are made from carbon, moissanite is made from silicon carbide. Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan in a meteor crater.
While moissanite can technically be found in nature, it’s extremely rare. So much so that all moissanite found in jewelry is man-made.
Moissanite is clear like a diamond. It has an intense, rainbow-like sparkle that can be described as somewhat artificial.
On the Mohs scale, moissanite ranks 9.25, making it strong and durable enough for everyday wear.
Given the origins and makeup of both diamonds and moissanite, the sections below will outline how they differ in appearance, durability, and overall value.
Diamonds vs Moissanite Compared
Given the origins and makeup of both diamonds and moissanite, the sections below will outline how they differ in appearance, durability, and overall value.
Look & Aesthetics
Both stones are clear and shine brightly. The difference comes down to how they reflect light. Diamonds have an even, steady sparkle that looks clean and natural.
Moissanite has a much stronger sparkle with more color. Under bright light, it can look a bit flashy or artificial.
Even without experience in diamonds, most people can tell moissanite apart from a diamond once they see both side by side
Durability and Longevity
Diamonds are the hardest natural material on Earth. They resist scratching and keep their polish through decades of wear. Moissanite is also durable, but can show light wear over time.
Both are extremely hard and durable, but diamonds come out on top when it comes to longevity and long-term wear.
Value and Rarity
Natural diamonds are inherently valuable. They’re limited in number and formed through a natural process that takes billions of years.
Moissanite, on the other hand, is made in a lab and isn’t rare or limited; it’s easy to reproduce. It’s for this reason that moissanite costs much less and doesn’t hold long-term value the same way a diamond does.
This makes moissanite great for fashion pieces, and diamonds for milestone pieces meant to last and carry value through time.
Something worth nothing: lab-grown diamonds are another option for those who want the beauty of a diamond at a lower cost. Unlike moissanite, lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds—the only difference is their origin.
Conclusion:
Diamonds and moissanite may look similar, but in the end offer different qualities.
Natural diamonds are rare, natural, and hold value over time. They’re strong, elegant, and are used in milestone pieces to celebrate life’s moments.
Moissanite, on the other hand, is man-made and more affordable, but it doesn’t carry the same weight in value or prestige
If you’re looking for a gemstone that lasts, both physically and emotionally, diamonds are the best choice. If you’re looking for something for a fashion piece or a more budget-friendly alternative, moissanite may be a better option.
In any case, if you’re looking for a precious stone, we invite you to our showroom in Milwaukee. With GIA graduate gemologists on site, we have the knowledge, expertise, and gem dealer connections to help find you the perfect, precious stone, diamond, or otherwise.
Come in and experience the Paul’s Jewelers difference, and see why we’ve been Milwaukee’s preferred jeweler for over 58 years.
