Moissanite vs Lab Diamond: Which is Better?

Moissanite vs Lab Diamond

The most frequently asked question from those who are looking for alternatives to diamonds mined is: Are there any distinctions between Moissanite and Lab Diamond?

If you're looking for a perfect match, you're in the right spot! This article will talk about the similarities and differences between them to aid you in making an informed choice.

Main Differences Between Moissanite and Lab Diamonds

Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are both attractive and durable gemstones, but they have some key differences in terms of their appearance, price, and durability.

  • Moissanite is a gemstone made from silicon carbide, while lab-grown diamonds are made from carbon. They are made from different materials.

  • One of the main differences between the two is their appearance. Moissanite glows greater than lab diamond. When it comes to the sparkle of moissanite vs lab diamond rings, there is a distinction, yet there isn't a right or incorrect.

  • Another difference between the two is their price. Moissanite is generally less expensive than lab-grown diamonds.

  • In terms of durability, moissanite is a very hard and durable gemstone, but it is not as hard as a lab diamond.

Table of content

What is a "Lab Diamond"?

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite Vs Lab Diamond

Which one is Better?

Where Can I Shop a Moissanite Engagement Ring?

What is a "Lab Diamond"?

Moissanite vs Lab Diamond Infographic

A Lab diamond, also known as synthetic laboratory-grown, cultured manufactured, or engineered diamond is a gemstone created in a laboratory, not the earth's crust.

The process takes billions of years to allow diamonds from nature to develop below the surface. About 100 miles, to be more precise, are deep within the mantle of the earth. Within the mantle, the warmth and stress cause graphite to alter its molecular structure. Graphite is the mineral form of carbon, which is what diamonds are made from.

A lab-grown diamond is created in a laboratory from carbon dioxide molecules, using the latest technology to generate extreme pressure and heat. The technology reproduces the natural process of growing diamonds.

A lab-grown diamond and Nature diamonds are the perfect match from both a physical and chemical viewpoint. And have the exact same firmness (10/10), the same appearance, and the exact same glimmer as a natural diamond. Carat weight and clarity are the same as natural diamonds. Color and cut are not any different.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a gem that Henry Moissan discovered in 1893. While there is natural Moissanite, it is extremely rare. For jewelry, treasure researchers create it for us in a lab. They claim it's from meteorites, therefore making its labels as the "Space Diamond" or "Stardust".

Moissanite has a really comparable appearance to genuine diamonds, which makes them a great alternative. However, Moissanite has a different chemical make-up. While Diamond is pure carbon, Moissanite is both silica as well as carbon. So It's normally of greater intensity and also in fiery, rainbow-colored flashes.

Moissanite Vs Lab Diamond: What Are the differences?

Moissanite and lab diamonds can be used to substitute natural diamonds. But that doesn't mean they are identical. Here are some distinctions you should be aware of about these two.

  • Sparkle

One of the biggest distinctions in Moissanite is its sparkling. The term sparkle is used by experts to describe dispersion. Moissanite has a dispersion rate of 0.104. However, a diamond has a dispersion rate of 0.044.

So, we can say that Moissanite sparkles more brightly than diamonds and is more vibrant than diamonds. If you examine the Moissanite juxtaposed with a diamond, it'll be clear which one is the Moissanite since it's the one that sparkles like disco balls!

Lab diamonds are designed to reflect light in the same manner as natural diamonds do. When it comes to the sparkle of moissanite vs lab diamond rings, there is a distinction, yet there isn't a right or incorrect. It's all in the personal your personal preference.

  • Color

Color is another attribute that can be used to distinguish the two. While lab diamonds and moissanite appear very similar in appearance, however, there are some differences.

Lab diamonds are readily available in mostly all colors. They may be "colorless," "near-colorless," or any of the rainbow colors such as red, blue, or purple.

In contrast, natural moissanite comes in three shades. Consists of Colorless, virtually colorless, and yellowish-green shades.

It is important to note that colored Moissanite was made by coating it with green and blue. However, with the advancement of technology, scientists will create colored moissanite.

moissanite vs lab diamond Sparkle

  • Refraction

"Refraction" means how a gemstone bends light and splits it into. Moissanite has an increased refractive index than a laboratory diamond and is a double-refractive gem. When you examine them at a certain angle, all the facets appear to be double.

Lab diamond On the other hand is singly refractive. The refractive index of gemstones is crucial as it's among the most crucial tools utilized in the identification of gemstones. It's a crucial element that determines how a gemstone appears to your eyes.

  • Durability

One method that jewelers evaluate the strength of a gem is through their Mohs scale for hardness. The Mohs hardness scale determines the level of scratch resistance your gemstone has. A hardness score that is high indicates whether your stone can hold up against the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Diamonds are the hardest. They have the highest score on the scale of hardness which is a 10. Diamond is the hardest substance on Earth. A lab diamond isn't different in hardness, either. Moissanite has the closest solidity to a diamond, sitting at 9.25.

In terms of the longevity of moissanite engagement rings and diamond engagement rings, there is only a small distinction. The same is true when it comes to a moissanite engagement ring versus a lab diamond. They are both extremely sturdy, and practically impervious to scratches and be used for everyday usage.

Remember that just because a stone is hard does not mean that a powerful hit to either stone will not break or chip it. The pressure applied to the moissanite or lab diamond could increase the chance of scratches appearing on the surface of the stone. In this instance, it's better to be safe instead of regretting it!

  • Price

Price is often a decisive aspect when deciding between a moissanite engagement ring vs diamond engagement rings as well as a moissanite or lab diamond.

Moissanite or lab-created diamonds offer affordable alternatives to a diamond ring. But, Moissanite is cheaper compared to diamonds made by labs. This is among the main reasons that it's the most sought-after diamond substitute.

It is a perfect replacement for diamonds if you're short of funds.

You May Want To Know Moissanite Vs Cubic Zirconia.

lab diamonds

Which one is Better?

I'm sure that you would like to receive clear and concise responses. But, it's true. Your choice will boil down to the things you are able to value.

  • Lab diamonds are great for those who are socially conscious and still desire a diamond and who also wish to cut costs.
  • Moissanite is the perfect choice for those with a tight budget and who simply want a long-lasting white diamond replacement.


Whatever stone you pick it is important to select the stone that is compatible with your budget and lifestyle, as both of them could make amazing engagement rings!

Where Can I Shop a Moissanite Engagement Ring?

Right here! Lane Woods Jewelry provides conflict-free, moral moissanite rings. We provide a number of various moissanite ring styles, including round cut, princess cut, cushion cut, oval cut, and these options with solitaire, halo or 3 stone also.

We likewise support 30-day returns, cost-free shipping. Start here to choose a moissanite ring!