Introduction
When it comes to choosing a sparkling, ethical, and affordable gemstone, two popular options stand out: lab-grown diamonds and moissanite. Both have surged in popularity among consumers seeking alternatives to mined diamonds. But while they look similar to the untrained eye, they are very different in terms of composition, durability, price, and brilliance.
This guide compares lab-grown diamonds and moissanite to help you make an informed decision for your jewelry purchase.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. They are made of pure carbon arranged in a crystal lattice structure. The only difference is the origin: lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments using HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) technology, rather than forming naturally over billions of years.
Key Features:
- Identical to natural diamonds in hardness (10 on the Mohs scale).
- Certified by the same gemological labs, such as GIA or IGI.
- Available in various shapes, sizes, and qualities, often at a lower cost than mined diamonds.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a gemstone made of silicon carbide, first discovered in a meteor crater in 1893. Natural moissanite is extremely rare, so today all moissanite used in jewelry is lab-created.
Key Features:
- Hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale (very durable but slightly less than diamonds).
- Higher brilliance and fire than diamonds, producing a rainbow-like sparkle.
- Lower cost than both mined and lab-grown diamonds.
Appearance: Brilliance and Fire
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Have a classic diamond sparkle, characterized by white light return and balanced brilliance.
- Moissanite: Has a higher refractive index (2.65 vs 2.42 for diamonds), which means more fire and rainbow-colored flashes. Some people love this extra sparkle, while others feel it looks less natural.
Verdict: If you want a traditional diamond look, choose lab-grown diamonds. If you want extra sparkle and don’t mind a slightly different appearance, moissanite is a good choice.
Durability and Longevity
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Score 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them the hardest known material on Earth. They resist scratching and are suitable for daily wear.
- Moissanite: Scores 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it very durable but still slightly softer than diamonds.
Verdict: Both are durable enough for engagement rings and daily jewelry, but diamonds offer the highest hardness and scratch resistance.
Price Comparison
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Generally 30–50% cheaper than mined diamonds but still more expensive than moissanite.
- Moissanite: Typically costs a fraction of the price of lab-grown diamonds of similar size.
Verdict: If budget is your top priority, moissanite is the more affordable choice. For those who want a real diamond but at a reduced price, lab-grown diamonds are ideal.
Ethical and Environmental Impact
Both lab-grown diamonds and moissanite are considered ethical and eco-friendly alternatives to mined diamonds because:
- No destructive mining is involved.
- No risk of conflict diamonds.
- Lower carbon footprint, especially when produced with renewable energy.
Verdict: Both options are ethical. Lab-grown diamonds may align better for those who want “real diamonds” with sustainable origins.
Resale Value
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Typically have lower resale value than mined diamonds but still retain some market demand.
- Moissanite: Has very little resale value, as it is considered a diamond alternative rather than a diamond itself.
Verdict: If resale value is important, lab-grown diamonds perform slightly better.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds If:
- You want a real diamond with identical properties to mined diamonds.
- You want a gemstone with the highest hardness and a traditional diamond look.
- You value certification and long-term market recognition.
- Choose Moissanite If:
- You want maximum sparkle at the lowest possible cost.
- You don’t mind a gemstone that looks slightly different from diamonds.
- You want a durable, ethical gemstone without paying diamond prices.
Conclusion
Both lab-grown diamonds and moissanite are excellent ethical alternatives to mined diamonds. The right choice depends on your priorities: authentic diamond properties and long-term recognition (lab-grown diamond) versus affordability and extra sparkle (moissanite).
Ready to explore your options?
Browse our Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry Collection and find sustainable, stunning pieces perfect for your style and budget.