Moissanite vs. Lab Diamond What's the Difference

Are you currently looking for a mined diamond alternative? Probably, you’ve heard people talking about moissanite and Lab diamond, which are way better than mined stone. The two are not costly like natural diamonds, and we believe you’ll appreciate their exceptional visual qualities.

In this article, we’ll discuss their similarities and differences to help you make an informed decision. After all, it is always fulfilling to choose the right gemstone. Isn’t that true? Let’s now dive into moissanite vs lab diamond.

What is Moissanite?

What is Moissanite
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Moissanite is a gemstone that Henry Moissan discovered in 1893. He found all the particles in the gem. As a result, scientists named moissanite after him.

During his discovery, Henry Moissan thought he had discovered diamonds. However, he later found that moissanite had silicon carbide, unlike diamonds that have carbon ions.

While natural moissanite is hard to find, it is possible to create it in the Lab. After all, experts create all the particles in the Lab.

If you fancy expensive jewelry and can’t afford diamond-made ones, moissanite products may suit you best. You’ll appreciate the fact that it has almost the same illusion and appearance as a diamond.

What are the benefits of moissanite?

Moissanite is a good substitute for diamond. However, it comes with additional benefits. Here are some that will undoubtedly excite you:

  • It doesn’t need mining

Almost all gems in the world are a result of mining. However, some mining processes have negative impacts on our environment. The excellent news with moissanite is that it comes from the Lab.

In this case, its effect on the environment is very minimal. You need a clean environment, don’t you? Of course, it is what we all want for our safety.

  • It offers the best value for money

Moissanite is less expensive compared to other gems like a diamond. However, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t adorable. In fact, at a glance, it has almost the exact resemblance to a diamond.

  • Endurance

Moissanite has some resemblances with diamonds. Its hardness is not different either. On the Moh scale of hardness, moissanite has a hardness of 9.25.

On the other hand, diamond has a hardness of 10. With its hardness, moissanite is likely to serve you for long without breakage.

What is a lab diamond?

What is a lab diamond
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Lab diamonds are developed by experts using cutting-edge technology. However, you wouldn’t separate it with mined diamonds. Its chemical and physical traits are the same.

Clarity and carat weight is also the same as natural diamonds. Cut and color are no different either. However, you need to know that both gems are from separate environments.

Today, the number of natural diamonds is decreasing gradually. Thus, cutting-edge technology is pivotal. It’s the only hope to ensure diamonds don’t become extinct.

What are the benefits of lab diamonds?

Like we mentioned earlier, lab diamonds are identical to natural ones, but they offer impressive benefits.  Would you like to know why lab diamonds would be the solution in the future due to these benefits? Keep reading to find out!

  • Lab diamonds offer a friendly acquiring process

Mining is a perfect example of necessary evil. Despite affecting our lives negatively, it’s almost hard to abandon it. However, lab diamonds are friendly to the environment.

Experts develop lab diamonds from the labs. Thus, it’s possible to preserve the environment. Also, experts developing them from the Lab don’t make them less valuable.

  • They are Cheap

Diamonds are expensive, and we may attribute the high prices to the shortage of these valuable gems. However, the high prices may be the best reason to turn to lab diamonds. Besides, they are cheap, and you can find them for 20 to 40 percent less. Are you in search of precious gems yet affordable? Lab diamond may be the best choice for you.

  • They are durable

Lab diamond’s quality is no less than that of natural diamonds. Hence, every feature of natural diamond is present in these gems. Natural diamonds are durable, and so are lab ones.

Anything durable gives you value for your money. The same applies to lab diamonds. After purchasing them, you wouldn’t need new ones any time soon.

  • They are ethic

Natural occurring diamond is becoming rare. As a result, companies are ready to do all they can to get valuable gems. Even some go out of their way in the process to engage in activities like child labor and slavery. However, you will never know whether your seller got the diamond ethically.

If you want to avoid being part of these evils, lab diamonds are the answer. Because they are from the Lab, there are no unethical practices associated with them.

What is the difference between moissanite and lab diamond?

What is the difference between moissanite and lab diamond
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Both moissanite and lab diamonds can replace natural diamonds. However, that doesn’t make them the same. Below are some of the differences you should know about the two.

Sparkle

If you didn’t know, experts refer to sparkle as dispersion. In our case, sparkle distinguishes lab diamond and moissanite. Moissanite has a dispersion rate of 0.104. On the other hand, diamond has a dispersion rate of 0.044. Thus, we can say that moissanite reflects more light than a lab diamond.

Color

Color is another feature you can use to differentiate moissanite and lad diamond. Lab diamonds are available in almost all colors.  Also, you can still find colorless ones.

On the contrary, natural moissanite is available in three colors. Colorless and almost colorless are among the colors available. You can also find the one with yellow and green shades.

Nonetheless,   with the coming of technology, experts can make colored moissanite. It’s imperative to note that traditional moissanite had a yellowish color.

Refraction

Lab diamond and moissanite can break and bend light apart in different ways. So, refraction is a critical factor that determines how a gem appears in your eyes.

Moissanite is doubly refractive.  As a result, all facets appear double if you look at them keenly.  Sapphire and tourmaline are other gems with double refraction.

Lab diamond, on the other hand, is singly refractive. Hence you wouldn’t see the facets as double. However, you must look at the gems at a particular angle for you to note this feature.

Hardness

Diamond is the most rigid material you will ever see. On a scale of one to 10, scientists rank diamond at 10. Lab diamonds are not different on hardness either.

Moissanite, on the other hand, is a little bit softer. On the hardness scale, moissanite is at 9.25.  You would notice that this a little bit lower compared to lab diamond’s hardness.

Price

Price is another factor that we can’t ignore about these gems. Lab diamonds are a little expensive as natural ones. Hence, if you need some, you might have to dig deeper into your pockets.

Moissanite is cheaper compared to lab diamonds. However, it is a perfect replacement for diamonds if you’re short of finances. Its hardness and sparkle give you value for your money.

Which one should you choose, moissanite or Lab diamond?

Which one should you choose, moissanite or Lab diamond
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Depending on your preferences, you can either choose moissanite or lab diamonds. However, if you’re looking for a sparkly gemstone that doesn’t resemble a diamond, moissanite is the way to go. Besides, it is durable and will definitely serve you for an extended period at a fair price.

For diamond lovers, lab diamonds are the best. You’re likely to save 70 percent on them instead of mined ones. How would it feel to have a diamond ring that has credible certification? Isn’t it a nice feeling?

If you’re one of those people who love gems for prestige, go for lab diamonds over moissanite. Furthermore, they are the best for bragging around your friends.

In general, we believe both lab diamonds and moissanite are a perfect choice. However, the final decisions will depend on you. After all, there are factors like hardness and price to consider before buying your gem.

Why is moissanite or lab diamond an excellent alternative for diamond?

Why is moissanite or lab diamond an excellent alternative for diamond
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Despite diamond being adorable, it is costly. Hence, you need alternatives like moissanite and lab diamonds because they will save you a pretty reasonable amount of money.

Also, a diamond might be a fantastic option with remarkable sparkle, but other gems like moissanite are well-polished than diamonds. As a result, that makes them the best alternative for those who love outstanding sparkle.

Uniqueness is something else to consider. Don’t die to have a diamond gem. Why not stand out with an exceptional gem?

Conclusion

As you can see, moissanite and Lab diamonds have their benefits. They are both pocket-friendly, unique gemstones, and an excellent alternative to natural diamonds. So, if you choose moissanite or lab diamonds, we believe that either will work well for you.

Nevertheless, you might want to be aware of their slight differences, including refraction, color, hardness and sparkle, and price.

From the Moissanite and lab diamonds benefits, which gemstone do you think will work perfectly for you? Please remember to leave a comment below. We’ll be super happy to hear your perception.

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