The Pros & Cons of Moissanite

Although a center stone is typically a diamond, there are other options that can make an engagement ring more affordable and just as beautiful. One of my favorite options is moissanite. Moissanite, originally discovered in 1893 in a meteor crater, is a very rare and scarce mineral. Therefore, moissanite as we know it today is almost exclusively lab grown.

Now let’s compare Diamonds vs Moissanite

Diamonds vs Moissanite, Color

While certified diamonds are graded on color and can be compared with one another, Moissanite stones are not graded on color. Classic Moissanite is not colorless and many feel that its color is similar to a GIA-certified K-color diamond. As with diamonds, the smaller the Moissanite, the more colorless it will look. Additionally, under certain lighting, Moissanite may project a yellow or green hue.This is likely the main reason that Charles and Colvard developed two options besides Classic Moissanite.

For those wanting a near-colorless stone, Forever Brilliant Moissanite is a great option as it is noticeably less yellow (more colorless) than a classic Moissanite. Many compare Forever Brilliant Moissanite to a GIA-certified H-color diamond. 

For those wanting a true colorless stone, you are in luck. Charles and Colvard released their newest brand of Moissanite known as Forever One Moissanite. Forever One Moissanite is completely colorless and is similar to a GIA-certified E-color diamond. They are truly are colorless and perfect if you want an ice-white stone.

Diamonds vs Moissanite, Hardness:

The harder a material, the more difficult it is to scratch. On the Mohs Scale of Hardness, Moissanite is rated as a 9.25, which is a great score that is higher than any gemstone used in jewelry besides diamonds. Diamonds, which are the hardest known mineral, score a 10.

Diamonds vs Moissanite, Brilliance

Brilliance, which refers to the ability to reflect white light, is a good measure for how much a diamond will ‘sparkle’. Moissanite disperses light very well and is actually more brilliant than a diamond. Additionally, Moissanite is less likely to attract grease or dirt than a diamond and should keep the ‘sparkle’ longer in between cleanings.

Diamonds vs Moissanite, Price

Overall, Moissanite is a fraction of the cost of a diamond. While a diamond’s price varies based on cut, clarity, and other individual characteristics, Moissanite stones are usually the same price and vary only with size and type of Moissanite (enhanced or non-enhanced). Below is a table comparing our pricing for a GIA-certified round diamond (with I-color and VS2 clarity), a classic Moissanite stone (not colorless), a Forever Brilliant Moissanite stone (near-colorless), and Forever One Moissanite stone (colorless). Carat Size GIA Certified Diamond (Round, I-color, VS2) Classic Moissanite Forever Brilliant Moissanite Forever One Moissanite.

Classic Moissanite vs Forever Brilliant Moissanite vs Forever One Moissanite We have talked a lot about how Moissanite compares to diamonds, but here is a chart that shows how different variations of Moissanite compare to one another. As you can see, between the thee Charles and Colvard Moissanite brands, the only thing that varies is color and price.

Diamonds vs Moissanite, The Conclusion 

While Moissanite does not replicate the look of a diamond exactly, at the end of the day it presents a viable option for those not wanting to purchase a diamond for budgetary or other reasons. Colored stones, like sapphires, are beautiful options as well and can help couples create a stunning ring without paying for the higher cost of a diamond.