JEWELRY EDUCATION
Diamonds vs Moissanite
Diamonds are the most recognized gemstones in the world, known for their brilliance, durability, and timeless appeal. For as long as modern man can remember, they’ve symbolized love and luxury, making them the go-to choice for fine jewelry.
With recent technology, “diamond simulants” like moissanite have been created to replicate the beauty of diamonds, offering a similar look, at a lower cost.
While moissanite shares some visual traits with diamonds, the two are very different in their composition, characteristics, and long-term value. In this article, we’ll break down the differences to help you decide which gemstone is the right fit for you.
Origins
Diamonds are a true wonder of nature, formed deep within the Earth under immense heat and pressure over billions of years. Composed of pure carbon arranged in a crystalline structure, these gemstones are the hardest natural substance on Earth. Their exceptional durability, brilliance, and rarity have cemented their status as the defacto gemstone representing love and commitment.
Moissanite, by contrast, is a relatively recent discovery. Originally found in meteorite fragments by French chemist Henri Moissan in the late 1800s, natural moissanite is super rare. Today, nearly all moissanite available in the jewelry market is lab-created. Unlike diamonds, moissanite is made up of of silicon carbide, a material known for its remarkable optical properties and durability.
Moissanite vs Diamonds: Physical and Optical Characteristics
Diamonds are made up of pure carbon, with their atoms bonded in a tetrahedral lattice. This atomic arrangement is what gives diamonds their unmatched hardness and extraordinary brilliance. On the Mohs scale of hardness, diamonds rank at a perfect 10, making them resistant to scratches and ideal for everyday wear.
Moissanite, by contrast, is made of silicon carbide, a compound that combines silicon and carbon. It is nearly as hard as diamond, ranking at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, and is highly resistant to scratching and chipping. While its hardness is impressive, moissanite’s structure fundamentally differs from a diamond’s, contributing to its distinct optical properties.
Brilliance and Fire
Diamonds are famous for their brilliance, which is a combination of their ability to reflect white light (brilliance) and break light into spectral colors (fire). This brilliance is due to their refractive index of 2.42. When cut skillfully, a diamond’s facets work together to create unparalleled scintillation—the sparkling effect seen as the stone moves in light.
Moissanite, on the other hand, has a higher refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69, which gives it even more fire than diamonds. While this can make moissanite appear flashier, some may find the effect too “rainbow-like” or even artificial when compared to the classicv sparkle of a diamond.
Color
Diamonds come in a wide range of natural colors, from colorless to yellow, and even fancy colors like blue or pink. Colorless diamonds, graded D to F on the GIA color scale, are the most sought after for their icy, white appearance.
Moissanite is typically created in near-colorless or colorless grades, but under certain lighting conditions, it may exhibit a slight yellow or greenish tint. While advancements in moissanite production have improved its color quality, discerning buyers may still notice subtle differences.
Clarity
Most diamonds have natural inclusions—tiny imperfections formed during their creation. These inclusions are often considered a hallmark of their natural origin – they can be considered as “fingerprints”. Inclusions can range from being virtually undetectable to being visible to the naked eye.
Moissanite, being lab-created, is virtually flawless. For those who value a pristine appearance without imperfections, moissanite offers a level of clarity that can be challenging to find in natural diamonds.
Investment Considerations
When purchasing fine jewelry, it’s important to consider not only the aesthetic appeal but also the long-term value of the gemstone.
Natural diamonds are sought after because of their rarity and enduring value. Their status as a finite resource, along with their natural, cultural, and emotional significance, ensures that high-quality diamonds retain their worth over time. Diamonds are often passed down as heirlooms, becoming treasured family assets with lasting sentimental and monetary value.
Moissanite offers comparable beauty but at a much lower cost compared to diamonds. Because moissanite is lab-created and not inherently rare, its resale value is minimal. While it is a stunning and budget-friendly option for those focused on aesthetics, it lacks the intrinsic and investment value of a natural diamond.
Conclusion
Diamonds and moissanite each hold their own unique appeal, catering to different preferences and priorities. Diamonds, with their unmatched rarity, timeless allure, and enduring value, remain the ultimate choice for those seeking an investment-worthy gemstone that symbolizes love and commitment. Moissanite, on the other hand, offers exceptional brilliance and fire at a more accessible price, making it an ideal option for those prioritizing beauty and practicality without the high cost.
Whether you value the natural wonder and legacy of a diamond or the innovative craftsmanship of moissanite, both gemstones have a place in the world of fine jewelry. If you’re in the market for a diamond piece, our team warmly invites you to our Chestnut Hill showroom for a complimentary consultation. With over 30 years of experience in creating custom pieces from scratch, we can help you create or find the perfect piece, with the perfect stone. Stop by today and see why we’ve become the preferred jeweler for clients within the Greater Boston Area.
