Moissanite vs. Lab Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

When it comes to choosing the perfect gemstone for your jewellery, the options and information can seem overwhelming. Moissanite, lab-grown diamonds, and natural diamonds all offer unique characteristics and benefits, making each one suitable for different preferences and budgets. Within this article, we will explore some key differences between these three popular options, helping you make as informed decision for your next jewellery purchase.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanites are a gemstones originally discovered over 130 years ago in a meteor crated in Arizona. Initially identified as diamonds due to their similar properties, the mistake was soon discovered and the stones were named after the gentleman who had discovered them, Henri Moissan. Today, naturally occurring moissanite is incredibly rare and scientists have perfected the process of simulating them in a lab, making it easily accessible and a budget friendly choice for jewellery. Beware of anyone selling moissanites as moissanite diamonds! Moissanites do not have the same chemical makeup or qualities of a diamond nor do they hold the same value.

What are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are also known as synthetic diamonds and are created in a controlled labroratory environment using advanced technological process that mimics the natural formation of diamonds. These diamonds have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds and require special equipment to distinguish them from natural diamonds

What are Natural Diamonds?

Natural diamonds are formed naturally over billions of years, deep in the Earth's mantle and are extracted through mining processes. Natural diamonds are traditionally considered the gold standard for gemstones. Only around 30% of diamonds mined worldwide are of gem-quality, the rest are used in production and manufacturing industries.

Comparing Key Characteristics

Hardness and Durability: 

• Moissanite scores 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it extremely durable and suitable for everyday wear.
• Both Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale, making them the hardest known natural material.

Brilliance and Fire: 

• Moissanite is known for it's brilliance and fire, with a refractive index of 2.6, given it a rainbow disco effect most noticeable in stones larger than 5mm.
• Both Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds also offer exceptional brilliance, with a refractive index of 2.4, with less rainbow effects throughout their sparkle. 

Colour and Clarity: 

• Moissanite are typically near-colourless but can exhibit a slight yellow or greyish hue in larger stones. Clarity is usually quite high as they are lab-created..
• Lab-Grown Diamonds are available in a range of colours and clarities and are often produced to meet the high standards of natural diamonds
• Natural diamonds can range in colour and clarity from slightly yellow to colourless and for highly included to flawless. Variations are part of a natural diamonds unique make up and lead to a stone that is uniquely yours.

Conclusion

Choosing between moissanite, lab-grown diamonds, and natural diamonds ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. Moissanite offers brilliance and affordability, perfect for those seeking a beautiful yet budget-friendly option. Lab-grown diamonds provide a cost-effective benefit while offering the quality and sparkle of a natural diamond. Natural diamonds, with their traditional prestige and higher value retention, remain the classic choice for many seeking a timeless choice. Whichever gemstone you choose, each option offers its own set of benefits and unique qualities, ensuring that your jewellery will be the perfect fit for you and your lifestyle.

Book a consultation with our expert jewellers today and let us guide you through the selection process, matching you with your perfect stone!