Natural diamond jewellery was very trendy at one time and its demand was very high despite its high price. But due to changing technology and consumer sentiments, Moissanite and Lab Grown Diamonds are replacing diamonds. Both of these are lab made diamonds and are the best alternatives to natural diamonds. In this article, we are going to explain the difference between Moissanite vs Lab Grown Diamond in detail.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a gemstone that is both naturally occurring and made. It was first discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan. Natural moissanite is very rare, so all the moissanite stones used in jewelry is lab-made. This gemstone is made of silicon carbide and is very durable.
What is Lab Grown Diamond?
Lab grown diamonds are also called synthetic and manmade diamonds. Just because they are made in a lab does not mean that they are inferior in quality to natural diamonds. It has the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. This type of diamond is created in a lab using advanced technology. The two main methods of making lab grown diamonds are High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
Quick Difference Between Moissanite vs Lab Grown Diamond
| Feature | Moissanite | Lab Grown Diamond |
| Composition | Silicon Carbide | Carbon |
| Brilliance | Higher than diamonds (2.65 RI) | Same as natural diamond (2.42 RI) |
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 9.25 | 10 |
| Color | Slight yellow/green tint (unless premium) | Available in D to J color grades |
| Cost | 70–90% cheaper than diamonds | 30–40% cheaper than mined diamonds |
| Ethical and Sustainable | Yes | Yes |
| Origin | Lab created | Lab created |
| Fire and Sparkle | More rainbow-like fire | More white, diamond-like sparkle |
Sparkle
When we talk about sparkle, all diamonds are no match for Moissanite stones. Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65–2.69 which is higher than diamond and that is why it is able to produce more sparkle. Lab grown diamonds have the shine of natural diamonds. If you want a diamond that shines more, then Moissanite is the best for you.
Durability
The hardness of diamond is checked on Mohs scale. Moissanite is very durable and its score is 9.25 on Mohs scale. Due to its durability, jewellery made from it is a perfect choice for daily wear. If we talk about Lab Grown diamond, its score is 10. Lab grown diamond is the hardest among all diamonds.
Color and Clarity
Both moissanite and lab grown diamonds are graded on the same scale. Both of these diamonds are available in colorless (D-F) and near-colorless grades. There is no doubt about the clarity of lab made diamonds. Both come in many colors and clarities.
Price Comparison: Moissanite vs Lab Grown Diamond
There is a huge difference in the price of Moissanite and Lab Grown Diamonds. The price of 1 carat Moissanite diamond is up to 90% less than the price of 1 carat Lab Grown Diamond. If you are on a low budget and want jewellery made of high quality diamonds, then you can buy Moissanite jewellery.
Ethical and Environmental Impact
Both moissanite and lab grown diamonds are ethical choices when compared to natural diamonds. Moissanite and lab grown diamonds are made in labs and are produced in a very controlled environment that does not have any negative impact on the environment. Natural diamonds are mined through a process that has a negative impact on the environment.
Customization
Both moissanite and lab grown diamonds are available in a wide range. You can buy them in many shapes, sizes, and styles. Popular shapes include:
- Round
- Oval
- Emerald
- Cushion
- Pear
Conclusion
Moissanite and lab grown diamonds are both premium quality diamonds which are perfect for every kind of jewellery. If you have the budget then you can go for lab grown diamonds. Moissanite is the best option for those customers who want to buy budget friendly diamonds.
