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What is Moissanite? How to Tell Moissanite from Diamond

by ehaiweb 24 Mar 2025 0 comments

In recent years, Moissanite has emerged as a beautiful, inexpensive substitute for diamonds. Not only is it highly prized for its shine and strength, but it is also preferred in exquisite jewelry and engagement ring. Its increasing popularity among customers looking for a more ethical and affordable gemstone, over the traditional diamond, is undeniable. 

But what is a Moissanite stone? And how does it measure up to a real diamond? In this article, we will discuss its origins, properties, differences from diamonds, and care instructions. 

Moissanite Ring: the Composition, Brilliance & Durability

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that exhibits extraordinary fire and brilliance. Unlike diamonds, which form naturally over millions of years, Moissanite is made from silicon carbide (SiC), a rare mineral originally discovered in a meteorite. Due to its high refractive index (2.65–2.69) and superior dispersion (0.104), Moissanite reflects light more intensely than diamonds, exploding an eye-catching sparkle.

The features of Moissanite

Is Moissanite a Natural Stone?

Although Moissanite was first found in nature, it is now exclusively lab-grown. Natural Moissanite is incredibly rare. Therefore, synthetic production is the only viable way to bring this gemstone to the market. However, this doesn’t mean it’s just a "diamond imitation." Moissanite has its own unique optical and physical properties.

Moissanite vs. Diamond – What's the Difference?

People often scratch their heads thinking about the differences between Moissanite and diamonds. Both stones may look alike, but a closer inspection reveals many unique characteristics that set the two apart.

 

Moissanite

Diamond

Composition

Silicon carbide (SiC)

Carbon (C)

Hardness (Mohs Scale)

9.25 (Extremely durable, second only to diamond)

10 (Hardest natural material)

Brilliance (Refractive Index)

2.65–2.69 (Higher than diamond, more sparkle)

2.42

Fire (Dispersion)

0.104 (More colorful flashes of light)

0.044

Price

More affordable

Generally more expensive

Sourcing

Lab-created

Natural & lab-grown


Composition

Diamonds consist only of carbon, while Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide. This difference in their chemical makeup affects how each stone will behave with light interaction, thus forming different, unique visual properties.

Brilliance and Fire

Moissanite's measure of brilliance or refractive index (RI) of 2.65-2.69 is about 10% higher than diamonds' RI of 2.42, meaning Moissanite tends to show more brilliance.

Diamonds, on the contrary, pose a different kind of brilliance that gives them their unprecedented shine. Some people love the colorful fire of the Moissanite, while others tend to appreciate the classic glory of the diamond.

Moissanite

 

Hardness and Durability

Both Moissanite and diamonds have amazing durability, but Moissanite, being newer, has less durability than diamonds, which are the hardest naturally occurring substance, scoring 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. It is also true that Moissanite has a high level of scratch resistance and durability, which can be worn on a daily basis, resulting in a hardness score of 9.25.

  

Mohs scale of gemstones

Price

Affordability is one of the outstanding pros of Moissanite. The cost of Moissanite is generally lower compared to rings for diamonds of equal size and quality. It is indeed a great selection since it offers couples that wish to have a luxurious look without an oversized price.

Ethical Considerations

Moissanite is an ethical choice, as it is lab-created, which means there is no worry of conflict diamonds or the destructive mining practices often associated with natural gemstones. It serves as a guilt-free option for anyone seeking a stunning gemstone but not wanting to compromise their personal values.

Which Stone is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between Moissanite or diamond will depend upon your personal taste and lifestyle as well as your budget. Moissanite is a great choice if you care about prices, sparkle, and ethically sourced gemstones. If you prefer a classic, timeless gemstone with a slight difference in brilliance, then you may opt for a diamond instead.

How to Clean Moissanite Rings?

Taking care of your ring will ensure it maintains its stunning sparkle as well as its beauty for a long time. Thankfully, cleaning Moissanite is easy and does not require much effort.

1. Basic cleaning routine

To maintain the ring's brilliance, wash the ring with mild dishwashing soap and warm water. With a soft toothbrush, scrub the ring and remove all the oil and dirt accumulated over time. Once done, rinse and gently pat dry the ring using a soft cloth.

2. Deep Cleaning Methods

For deeper cleaning, you may want to try steam cleaning or an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. Moissanite can withstand the extreme cleanse, but check with your jeweler to confirm that your setting can also handle the steam.

3. Maintenance Tips

Avoid cleaning solutions like bleach that will harm the metal setting of the ring. When taking off the ring, store it separately to minimize scratches. Check on the prongs and types of ring settings periodically to see if the stone chipped or dislodged.

Moissanite rings

 

Where to Buy Moissanite Rings – Visit Romalar for a Custom Moissanite Ring

Moissanite gemstones are flawless substitutes for diamonds as they offer a more stunning look, similar hardness, and higher durability at a much lower price. Do you feel the butterflies in your stomach, but are wondering where to make your custom rings? Romalar can be the best way to go.

Our group is here 24/7, ready to listen to and visualize your fancy.

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