Moissanite vs Lab Diamond: Which is More Valuable?

As moissanite and lab diamonds are becoming a more popular choice for engagement rings, in this blog we are going to cover the differences and similarities between them!

Let’s begin with what are moissanites and lab diamonds are. A moissanite is a gemstone, being the second hardest mineral in nature after diamond. Then a lab diamond are diamonds which are grown in a lab.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral that was first discovered in 1893 by a French scientist named Henri Moissan. It is a rare mineral that is found in meteorites, but most moissanite used in jewelry today is lab-created. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which means that it can sparkle more and appear more brilliant in certain lighting conditions. It is also less expensive than diamonds and is often used as a diamond alternative in engagement rings and other jewelry.

What is a Lab Diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are created in a laboratory using advanced technology that mimics the conditions under which diamonds form in the earth's crust. These diamonds are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds and have the same optical and physical properties as natural diamonds. The only difference is that lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, rather than being formed naturally over millions of years.

What Are the Differences Between Moissanite vs Lab Diamond?

Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are both popular alternatives to natural diamonds in the jewelry industry. While they may look similar at first glance, there are some key differences between moissanite and lab-grown diamonds that you should consider before making a purchase.

Both moissanites and lab diamonds are ethical. You may be wondering how? A moissanite is ethical because it is a man-made stone. Which means no mining is required when they are made. Then like moissanites, lab grown diamonds are a man-made diamond grown in a lab. So again, no mining is required meaning they are also ethical. Sustainability is becoming more and more important to most people when it comes to choosing an engagement ring in the modern day. Moissanites and lab grown diamonds are and excellent alternative to a natural diamond as they are ethically sourced and better for the planet!

If you want your moissanite ring to look as close to a diamond ring as possible, we recommend that you choose from the shapes round and emerald cut. This is because these shapes look the most like a diamond. A moissanite has slightly different sparkle, often referred to as a rainbow sparkle. A moissanite is cut differently to a diamond. It is cut to be double reflective to enhance its sparkle. At Avita we ensure that all our moissanite gemstones are top quality. Each one is checked and made sure it fits our standards before being made into a ring. Our moissanites are Forever One by Charles & Colvard.

When it comes to lab diamonds pear, oval and radiant cuts will work better if you want your lab diamond to look like a real diamond. This is because they will look the most realistic to a natural diamond. All of our lab diamonds are carefully selected and make sure they are the best quality diamonds and maximise the sparkle you get.

Here are Some of the Benefits of a Moissanites & Lab Diamonds:

Moissanites:

• Mining Free. Moissanite is man-made gemstone, with minimal environmental impact.
• Moissanites are a less expensive option.
• Moissanite gemstones are a 9.25 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, so they are suitable for everyday wear.

Lab Diamonds:

• Lab diamonds look exactly the same as a natural diamond and have the same qualities.
• Lab diamonds are around 50% less expensive than a natural diamond.
• Lab diamonds are made in a lab, meaning they are ethical. As no mining is involved!

When choosing between moissanite and lab-grown diamonds, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. If you're looking for a diamond alternative that is more affordable and has a unique sparkle, moissanite may be a good choice. If you want a diamond that is environmentally friendly and physically identical to a natural diamond, then a lab-grown diamond may be the better option for you.

Overall moissanite and lab diamonds are a great option to consider when you are choosing your engagement ring.