When it comes to choosing a gemstone for wedding rings, there are a lot of factors to consider. Especially, choosing between a moissanite and diamond wedding ring requires a lot more to consider. If you aren’t able to choose between moissanite and a diamond wedding ring, there is no need to be anxious. We are here to help you out. In today’s post, we’ll highlight the key differences between the two to help you decide between the two with ease.
What is moissanite?
Moissanite is made of silicon carbide and is a diamond simulant. Being a diamond simulant, it resembles a diamond in appearance and it is extremely difficult to differentiate between the two. That’s why moissanite is a perfect diamond alternative. This means that rings like moissanite engagement rings are the perfect competition to regular diamond.
What is the difference between moissanite and diamond?
Dramatically, moissanite is extremely close to a diamond in appearance. However, there are some differences between the two.
Brilliance, fire and Clarity
Examining the stone’s brilliance and fire is one way to differentiate between the two. Typically, moissanite exhibits more brilliance and fire as compared to diamond. However, it is hard to notice in gemstones less than 5mm. Examining the clarity of the two stones is another way to find differences between the two stones. As moissanite is a lab-grown stone, it doesn’t carry large clarity imperfections as compared to diamond. Diamonds contain clarity imperfections that are even visible to the human eye.
Hardness / Toughness
Diamond is the hardest material on Earth with a Mohs scale score of 10. On the other hand, moissanite secures a score of 9.25. So, there is a slight difference between the two in terms of hardness. It is difficult to differentiate between the two gemstones in terms of toughness. However, diamond has a cleavage plane while moissanite doesn’t. So, here the moissanite has an edge over the diamond.
Moissanite is a lot cheaper than a diamond. However, moissanite is far less valuable than a diamond. Diamonds retain their value for hundreds of years and can be passed down from one generation to another still retaining their price.
So, what gemstone should you choose for your engagement ring?
Choosing between moissanite and diamond for your engagement ring is ultimately all about individual preferences. Both of these gemstones are extremely beautiful, sparkling, and durable. Some people may prefer the fire and price points of moissanite while many others may prefer the extra hardness assurance and romantic appeal of diamonds.
However, diamonds will always have an edge over moissanite. Despite its stunning similarities with diamonds, moissanite is not a diamond. Salt and pepper diamonds are special because they are extremely rare and naturally occurring gemstones. Although they are much pricier, their prices are because of their rarity and alluring beauty. It takes millions of years for diamonds to develop and each piece is a unique one. That’s why there has been and will always be something special about them. Besides, diamonds have become a symbol of eternal love and affection and that’s why most people will always prefer them to moissanite.
Chris contributes articles with advice for brides and grooms on vows, ceremonies, and wedding traditions. He draws on his experience as a wedding officiant to give perspective on crafting a meaningful ceremony. Outside of work, Chris volunteers coaching youth sports in the community.
