When looking for a gemstone that is going to be a perfect candidate for an engagement ring or any piece of jewelry, there exist two exciting options: the first is lab-grown diamonds, and the second is Moissanite. They both share similarities, but when it comes to brilliance, durability, and ethical concerns, there are Key differences that set them apart from each other. If you are confused between them, then don’t worry; we are here to clear the air once and for all. You just have to spend two minutes reading the next few lines.

Difference Between Lab-Grown Diamond and Moissanite

The Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds share some similarities, but they also have key differences among them. Both have a splendiferous shine in addition to being a perfect substitute for mined diamonds. Although the two look alike, their composition, price range, and physical attributes set them apart.

Lab-Grown Diamond vs Moissanite

Feature Lab-Grown Diamond Moissanite
Raw Material These are made of pure carbon and are chemically identical to natural mined diamonds. These are made of silicon carbide, which is completely different from diamond.
Shine Diamonds have an extraordinary shine but are less intense than Moissanite. Moissanite has a more sparkle due to its higher refractive index that we have mentioned below in the refraction section of the table.
Color Lab-grown diamonds come in a wide range of colors but are typically considered colorless. Moissanite is often colorless but can show a slight yellow or gray hue in different lighting conditions.
Refraction Diamonds have a lower refractive index (2.42), making them a more subtle option. Moissanite has a higher refractive index (2.65), making it a brighter, more vibrant choice for the end consumer.
Hardness Lab-grown diamonds1 rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which is the same as mined diamonds. Moissanite ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it slightly softer than diamonds.
Price Lab-grown diamonds are typically 30-40% cheaper than mined diamonds. (It can vary depending on the type of diamond you choose.) Moissanite is cheaper than both lab-grown and mined diamonds, making it a perfect choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Ethical Choice Lab-grown diamonds are considered ethical as they don't involve mining or have any negative impact on the environment. Moissanite is also considered ethical, as it is grown in the lab. It does not involve slavery or put the environment at risk.

Which One Is Better: Moissanite or Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Now that we have a basic understanding of the differences, we can explore the true winner among these two options. Unfortunately, it’s not that straightforward because the answer depends on what you value most: ethical concerns, sparkle, price, and more.

  • For budget-conscious consumers, then, Moissanite is the clear winner. It is a budget-friendly option as the price difference between Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds is remarkably big.

  • If you value brilliance and sparkle, lab-grown diamonds come close to matching the shine of a natural diamond. However, if you are looking for a vibrant shine with subtle style, then Moissanite is the right option.

  • If ethical and environmental considerations are in your mind, then both gemstones are an ethical alternative to mined diamonds. But lab-grown diamonds have the edge as they are chemically identical to mined diamonds, making them a closer match to natural diamonds.

Moissanite Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Affordability: The cost associated with Moissanite is significantly lower compared to both natural and lab-grown diamonds.

  • Sparkle: Its shine outdoes diamonds due to a greater refractive index.

  • Durability: With a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, Moissanite is still incredibly hard and scratch-resistant.

  • Ethical: As Moissanite is created in a lab, there is no need for mining, making it a sustainable alternative.

Cons:

  • Color: Some of these stones possess a grayish or yellow tint, however, options of other colors are also available.

  • Perceived Value: Dominantly, Moissanite is regarded as being of less value than diamonds, even lab-grown diamonds.

  • Appearance: The sparkle can sometimes be a bit too "flashy" for people who prefer subtle elegance; for them, a diamond is a better choice.

Lab-Grown Diamond Pros and Cons

Pros Cons
They are chemically identical to natural diamonds They are still more expensive than moissanite
They are quite shiny due to their diamond-like qualities. It may not have the same cultural impact as natural diamonds for some buyers
As discussed above, it has a Mohs rating of 10, the same as natural diamonds Color variations may occur, though most are colorless, as discussed above in the table.
Ethical and sustainable alternative to mined diamonds Limited availability compared to Moissanite
Increased resale value compared to moissanite Occasional inclusions/variations that might be caught by the trained eye.

Conclusion

So, is a lab-grown diamond better than a Moissanite? The answer will change based on your requirements and beliefs. If you want a stone that mimics a real diamond in every sense, a lab-grown diamond is your safest option. It has the same properties in terms of shine and longevity. However, if you seek a reasonably priced stone with an affordable price tag, a different shine, and eco-friendly aspects, Moissanite emerges as the winner.

Both options are stunning, ethical, and strong choices compared to traditionally mined diamonds. The choice is up to you. Pick an option that fits your style, budget, and, most importantly, values.

Rosec Jewels Staff