Are you trying to choose between a lab grown diamond ring and a moissanite ring for your engagement? If so, you’re not alone. Many couples who value both style and sustainability are torn between these two stunning yet affordable gemstones.
lab grown diamonds and moissanite are ethical and budget-friendly alternatives to mined diamonds, offering something unique for every taste. But which one is right for you? To help you decide, we’ll break down the five major differences between these two popular options. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which gemstone aligns with your style, budget, and values.
1. Material Composition and Origins
The first major difference lies in what lab grown diamonds and moissanite are made of.
lab grown Diamonds
lab grown diamonds are real diamonds, but instead of being mined from the earth, they are created in a lab using two advanced techniques—High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both methods replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds are formed, resulting in gemstones that have the same carbon composition as mined diamonds.
This means that lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. They’re even graded by the same four Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat.
Moissanite
Moissanite, on the other hand, is made of silicon carbide. This gemstone was originally discovered in meteorites, earning it the nickname “space jewel.” Today, moissanite is entirely lab-created using cutting-edge technology.
While moissanite is not a diamond, it is prized for its unique brilliance and affordability. Its distinct composition gives it a slight visual difference that sets it apart.
What This Means for You
If you’re drawn to the classic idea of a diamond, lab grown options deliver the same authenticity without the ethical concerns of mining. But if you’re open to a gemstone with its own dazzling personality, moissanite is a creative and cost-effective choice. Check out our collection of 2.5 carat lab grown diamond ring online at CaratBee.
2. Appearance and Brilliance
One thing every buyer notices right away is how these gemstones sparkle—but the details of their brilliance differ significantly.
Sparkle Style
Moissanite has a higher brilliance and fire than diamonds, meaning it reflects more rainbow-colored light. This gives it an eye-catching, almost disco-ball effect that some buyers adore.
lab grown diamonds, on the other hand, have a subtler sparkle. They refract white light, creating a classic and understated brilliance that’s synonymous with diamonds.
Light Reflection
This difference in sparkle comes down to their refractive properties. Moissanite is double-refractive, meaning light passes through it in multiple directions, intensifying its shine. lab grown diamonds are single-refractive, which is why their sparkle is more traditional.
3. Durability and Hardness
When it comes to durability, lab grown diamonds and moissanite score highly, but lab grown diamonds take the lead.
Hardness Ratings
lab grown diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them the hardest known substance. This means they’re exceptionally resistant to scratches, chips, and everyday wear and tear.
Moissanite, while not quite as hard, still scores an impressive 9.25. It’s more durable than most other gemstones, including rubies and sapphires, and is perfectly suited for daily wear.
Long-Term Use
While both gemstones are durable, lab grown diamonds are better if you’re looking for something to pass down as a family heirloom. Their supreme hardness ensures they’ll stay pristine for generations.
4. Price Differences
For anyone on a budget, the cost is often a deciding factor. Here’s how lab grown diamonds and moissanite compare in terms of price.
lab grown Diamonds
lab grown diamonds are significantly more affordable than mined diamonds—often costing 30–50% less. However, they’re typically more expensive than moissanite. Prices vary based on the four Cs, but even a larger lab grown diamond can sometimes cost as much as a smaller mined one. The price for a 1 carat labgrown diamond ring with VS1 clarity, E color, set in 10k gold, is approximately $1,000.
Moissanite
Moissanite is the most budget-friendly option of the two. On average, it can cost up to 40% less than a lab grown diamond of comparable size. This makes moissanite a fantastic choice for buyers who want to maximize sparkle without breaking the bank. The price for a 1 carat moissanite diamond ring with VVS2 clarity, E color, set in 10k gold, is approximately $550.
Value for Money
If maximizing size and sparkle on a limited budget is a priority, moissanite is the better deal. But for buyers looking for the prestige and tradition associated with diamonds, lab grown options offer a balance between cost and authenticity.
5. Cultural and Resale Value
Beyond aesthetics and price, cultural significance and potential resale value are important factors for many buyers.
lab grown Diamonds
Because lab grown diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds, they carry a similar cultural weight. They’re often seen as a more ethical way to honor traditions. When it comes to resale value, lab grown diamonds hold more value than moissanite, although they still depreciate faster than mined diamonds.
Moissanite
Moissanite doesn’t carry the same cultural symbolism as diamonds, which some buyers may find off-putting. Additionally, its resale value is limited since it is considered a diamond alternative rather than a diamond itself.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between lab grown diamonds and moissanite comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and values. Choose lab grown diamonds if you want a timeless, traditional gemstone with strong cultural significance and exceptional durability. Opt for moissanite if you prefer a unique sparkle, vibrant brilliance, and unbeatable affordability. Whatever your choice, both options are sustainable, ethical, and beautiful alternatives to mined diamonds. With no wrong choice, it all comes down to what speaks to your style and priorities.