Unveiling the Truth: Is Moissanite a Genuine Diamond?

Diamonds are a precious gem prized for their beauty and elegance. They’re also a symbol of love and commitment.

But those shiny diamonds you see in jewelry stores may not be natural! Often, those diamonds are moissanites or other simulated gemstones. Here are some telltale signs that a diamond isn’t a diamond.

It’s more complicated than a diamond.

Moissanite is a gemstone that comes close to rivaling the hardness of a diamond. While a diamond ranks as a perfect ten on the Mohs hardness scale, moissanite lands around 9.25. It’s still one of the hardest stones to find on Earth, and no other stone can scratch it (unless you use a ton of Boron).

Moisanites are also extremely long-lasting. They don’t attract grease or dirt as easily as a diamond and won’t lose their brilliance over time like some of the cheaper diamond simulants on the market.

So, is moissanite a real diamond? A silicon carbide material like diamond is called moissanite. A stone that resembles a diamond but isn’t one is referred to as a diamond simulant. Moissanite is a typical alternative to diamonds because it is exceedingly difficult to distinguish between them.

When you wear jewelry made from moissanite and diamonds, it’s impossible to tell the difference from a distance. If you were to hold both a diamond and a moissanite in your hand, you would only notice any difference if you touched them closely to see how they feel and looked up their clarity grade from an independent gemological lab.

The GIA or AGS doesn’t rate Moissanite, so that you won’t get the same independent clarity grade as a diamond. Nevertheless, it’s rare to find a moissanite with a clarity grade below VS. Even the lower clarity grades are straightforward and eye-catching compared to most natural diamonds. That makes moissanite an excellent choice for anyone looking for an ethical alternative to a mined diamond.

It’s more brilliant.

Moissanite is more brilliant than a diamond, with a higher refractive index and more colored sparkle (often called “fire”). It also ranks 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, and since it’s a carbon silicate rather than pure carbon, it resists oil and dirt better than a natural diamond.

Moissanites are available both naturally (very rarely) and as lab-created gems. Most moissanite used in jewelry today is the latter, the first firm to patent and commercialize lab-grown silicon carbide gemstones. They’re still the leader in this category of diamond alternatives, and they offer several benefits for anyone who wants to save on diamond prices without sacrificing beauty or durability.

A few discerning gem enthusiasts can detect slight yellows, greens, and grays in colorless lab moissanites under certain light conditions. Still, it’s becoming increasingly complex as technology improves. Moissanites are often more luminous than diamonds of similar clarity, color, and cut, so they’re popular as an affordable alternative.

But remember that if your sweetie expects a natural diamond and you give her a moissanite, she might feel disappointed. Discussing this with her before you buy is a good idea so you’re both on the same page about what you’re getting.

It’s more affordable.

Moissanite is a good option if you’re looking for an engagement ring without breaking the bank. This gem is much less expensive than a diamond so you can get a larger stone for the same price. This can significantly affect your budget, especially those shopping on a tight timeline.

Moissanite is also more affordable than a diamond because it’s produced in a lab rather than mined from the ground. This bypasses two significant issues with the diamond industry, including environmental concerns and exploitation of local workers. Many consumers appreciate this added layer of ethicality when choosing a ring for their loved one.

While a diamond is known for its unmatched brilliance, moissanite offers a unique look. This is because moissanites reflect more light colors than diamonds, giving them a rainbow-like appearance. This can be a turnoff for some people, but it adds a beautiful touch to an already stunning gemstone for most.

Ultimately, choosing moissanite or a diamond depends on personal preferences and budget. Some shoppers prefer diamonds for their tradition and prestige, while others are drawn to the durability of moissanites. Regardless of your reasoning, both stones are beautiful choices that will last a lifetime. To find the perfect fit, browse our genuine and synthetic diamonds and moissanites collection.

It’s more durable.

Moissanite is incredibly durable and is second only to diamonds on the Mohs scale (a perfect ten compared to a diamond’s 9). It’s heat-resistant, too, making it more resistant to chipping or cracking if subjected to harsh conditions. It’s scratch-resistant and can withstand everyday bangs, bumps, and smudges.

Moissanites are known for their jaw-dropping beauty, including a unique rainbow flash called “fire.” This occurs due to the stones’ double refraction. When light enters the gem, it bounces off facets in different directions, producing a mesmerizing fire and rainbow-like sparkle that sets it apart from diamonds. Moissanites are available in various shapes, with the round brilliant cut providing the most brilliant sparkle. However, gemstones such as the emerald and Asscher cuts are often more successful at “passing” for diamonds because they glimmer instead of flash.

Because of moissanite’s durability and resemblance to diamonds is often used as an alternative to natural diamonds in jewelry settings. It is more affordable than diamonds, but it still carries high beauty and value. It’s also available in a wide variety of cuts, making it easier to customize and create engagement rings that are uniquely yours. Moissanites, like diamonds, can be cleaned using a non-acid-based jewelry cleaner. However, it’s best to avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage your precious jewels.