In the world of modern jewelry, the moissanite versus diamonds debate has become one of the most popular topics as of late. Both gems offer an irresistible sparkle and captivating inner fire, making them the most coveted colorless gems on the market.

Diamonds have long reigned as the epitome of opulence, but in recent years moissanite has emerged as a worthy opponent. Below we will explore the qualities that set moissanite and diamonds apart, so that you can decide which team you’re on.

Moissanite vs Diamonds: Everything You Need To Know About The Two Gems

Origins and Rarity: The Quest for the Extraordinary

Diamonds are some of the most stunning natural treasures on the planet. Products of intense heat and pressure, they are formed deep within the earth’s crust over billions of years. This long and arduous creation process results in a magnificent appearance as well as exceptional resilience.

Moissanite, on the other hand, is believed to have cosmic origins. The dazzling gem was first discovered within a meteorite crater in Arizona in 1893, which is perhaps what gives it its otherworldly gleam.

The rarity of diamonds has long been a source of fascination and desire. Their scarcity, coupled with their natural formation, contributes to their elevated value.

Many believe that diamonds are the rarest gem on earth, when in actuality that title once again goes to moissanite. Naturally occurring moissanite is incredibly difficult to find, which is why most jewelry made from moissanite is crafted using lab grown stones.

The scientist that discovered moissanite, French chemist Ferdinand Frederick Henri Moisson, could only find trace fragments of the mineral. They weren’t big enough to create jewelry, but they were just the right size for scientists to see its potential. By the 1890s, fellow scientist Edward Goodrich Acheson developed a patent for the production of synthetic moissanite so that it could be presented to the world in its full glory.

Although lab grown moissanite can be created at a larger scale, it still shares the same rare characteristics as natural moissanite. The only difference between the two gems is the environment in which they were created; otherwise, they are visually and chemically indistinguishable.

Strength: An Enduring Legacy

Diamonds have secured their reputation as the hardest natural substance known to mankind, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This remarkable durability ensures their longevity and quality, making them ideal for everyday wear.

Moissanite, while not as hard as diamonds, boasts impressive strength with a 9.25 rating on the Mohs scale. It’s still one of the strongest gemstones on the planet, scoring higher than sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and many other precious stones.

Optics: A Symphony of Light

Any gem’s brilliance comes from its ability to refract and dance with light. The mesmerizing shimmer or “fire” that makes gemstones so beautiful is a combination of its refractive index, dispersion, and luster.

Diamonds and moissanite have similar external appearances, but one is the clear winner when it comes to unrivaled sparkle: moissanite. The cosmic gem has a higher refractive index than diamonds, coming in at 2.6 compared to a diamond’s 2.4. In fact, moissanite takes the crown for being the world’s most brilliant gemstone.

Ethics and Sustainability: A Conscious Choice

In an era where ethics and sustainability are at the forefront of many consumers’ minds, the environmental impact of gemstones is more important than ever. 

Diamonds have raised concerns surrounding detrimental mining practices, conflict-free origins, and unsafe working conditions. Moissanite, being a primarily lab-created gemstone, offers an ethical alternative with a smaller ecological footprint.

Those that still crave the historical significance and prestige of diamonds can also enjoy those benefits with lab-grown diamonds. They provide conscientious consumers an opportunity to embrace sustainability without compromising on elegance or quality.

Accessibility: Where Affordability Meets Luxury

Another key difference between diamonds and moissanite are the price points typically associated with each gem.

Diamonds, with their prestigious reputation and natural scarcity, often come with a high price tag and are marketed as fine or haute jewelry. The value of diamonds can vary greatly based on the carat weight, cut, color, and clarity, but most are significant investments.

Moissanite presents an enticing option for those seeking luxury at a more affordable price point. As a lab-created gem, it allows for greater accessibility while providing a high level of quality. Moissanite pieces can range from demi-fine to fine, giving consumers the opportunity to invest in beautiful jewelry without straining their budgets.

Moissanite vs Diamonds: Which Is Right For You?

The choice between moissanite and diamonds may prove to be difficult. Both gems come with an array of benefits and visual treats, from unparalleled strength to extraordinary scintillation.

Ultimately, the choice will come down to your individual preferences and values. Diamonds will be your best bet if you value tradition, durability, and prestige, while moissanite is a fantastic choice for those who prefer brilliance, rarity, and accessible luxury. No matter which gem you decide to go for, both will undoubtedly attract admirers wherever you go!

Didier Dubot’s Moissanite Jewelry

Our new Sensuelle collection features a striking range of GIA-certified lab grown moissanite gems. We have carefully sourced the finest, most dazzling moissanite gems with the highest color, clarity, and cut grades to provide you with optimal brilliance. Each moissanite boasts a color grade of D (colorless), a clarity grade of VVS1 (very very slightly included), and an excellent cut grade. Our gems come with according GIA certification, as well as a special Didier Dubot engraving along the stone’s girdle.

From timeless solitaire pieces to dazzling pave accents, our new Sensuelle collection showcases the radiant beauty of moissanite at its finest.

Writer: Maria Polansky