Moissanite vs Diamond: What’s the Real Difference?
by Manish on Jul 25 2025
Are you searching for the perfect engagement ring? If so, you’ve likely come across a dazzling range of options, and one of the most common questions people ask is about Moissanite vs diamond. While diamonds remain the traditional favourite, Moissanite has been gaining popularity for its fire, brilliance, and affordability.
Here’s everything you need to know about what a Moissanite diamond is, how it compares to diamonds, and whether it's the right choice for you.
Moissanite is a gemstone composed of silicon carbide and is considered a diamond simulant. This means it looks very similar to a diamond but is not a diamond in terms of composition. It was first discovered by scientist Henri Moissan in 1893 inside a meteor crater. Initially, he thought he had found diamonds—but later realized it was something entirely different.
Naturally occurring Moissanite is incredibly rare, which is why all Moissanite used in jewelry today is lab-grown. It typically takes two to three months to create a single Moissanite gem in a laboratory setting.
Because it so closely resembles diamonds, Moissanite has become a favourite alternative in modern engagement rings.
Many people wonder, is Moissanite a real diamond? The answer is no, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a beautiful or durable option. Moissanite is not made of carbon like a diamond; it’s silicon carbide. However, visually, it’s very close. So close that even gemologists sometimes need specialized tools to tell them apart.
One way to distinguish them is by brilliance. Moissanite has more fire than diamonds, meaning it produces more rainbow-like flashes under light. This high refractive index (2.65–2.69 vs. 2.42 for diamonds) gives Moissanite its signature “disco ball” sparkle.
Not at all. Moissanite is known for retaining its brilliance and clarity for years. Unlike some cheaper diamond alternatives like cubic zirconia, Moissanite does not cloud, dull, or discolour over time. Its exceptional durability (ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness) means it stands up well to daily wear, making it an excellent choice for engagement rings.
Unless you’re a gem expert with magnification tools, distinguishing between a Moissanite and a diamond just by looking is very difficult. Most people can’t tell them apart. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) even states that Moissanite is “much closer to diamond in overall appearance and heft than any previous diamond imitation.”
Still, larger Moissanite stones (over 5mm) tend to show more colourful flashes compared to diamonds, which have a more subtle white sparkle.
Here’s how Moissanite vs diamond stacks up on key features:
If you’re exploring beyond diamonds, you might also consider:
There’s no right or wrong choice when it comes to Moissanite vs diamond—only what feels right for you. If you love the traditional romance, prestige, and value of diamonds, they’re a timeless option. But if you’re drawn to Moissanite’s brilliance, durability, and affordability, it’s a modern gemstone worth considering.
Still unsure? Visit Nature Sparkle to explore our stunning collections of natural and lab-grown diamond engagement rings and discover a look that captures your love perfectly.
Here’s everything you need to know about what a Moissanite diamond is, how it compares to diamonds, and whether it's the right choice for you.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a gemstone composed of silicon carbide and is considered a diamond simulant. This means it looks very similar to a diamond but is not a diamond in terms of composition. It was first discovered by scientist Henri Moissan in 1893 inside a meteor crater. Initially, he thought he had found diamonds—but later realized it was something entirely different.
Naturally occurring Moissanite is incredibly rare, which is why all Moissanite used in jewelry today is lab-grown. It typically takes two to three months to create a single Moissanite gem in a laboratory setting.
Because it so closely resembles diamonds, Moissanite has become a favourite alternative in modern engagement rings.
Is Moissanite a Real Diamond?
Many people wonder, is Moissanite a real diamond? The answer is no, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a beautiful or durable option. Moissanite is not made of carbon like a diamond; it’s silicon carbide. However, visually, it’s very close. So close that even gemologists sometimes need specialized tools to tell them apart.
One way to distinguish them is by brilliance. Moissanite has more fire than diamonds, meaning it produces more rainbow-like flashes under light. This high refractive index (2.65–2.69 vs. 2.42 for diamonds) gives Moissanite its signature “disco ball” sparkle.
Does Moissanite Lose Its Sparkle?
Not at all. Moissanite is known for retaining its brilliance and clarity for years. Unlike some cheaper diamond alternatives like cubic zirconia, Moissanite does not cloud, dull, or discolour over time. Its exceptional durability (ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness) means it stands up well to daily wear, making it an excellent choice for engagement rings.
Can You Tell the Difference?
Unless you’re a gem expert with magnification tools, distinguishing between a Moissanite and a diamond just by looking is very difficult. Most people can’t tell them apart. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) even states that Moissanite is “much closer to diamond in overall appearance and heft than any previous diamond imitation.”
Still, larger Moissanite stones (over 5mm) tend to show more colourful flashes compared to diamonds, which have a more subtle white sparkle.
Moissanite vs Diamond: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s how Moissanite vs diamond stacks up on key features:
- Appearance: Both are beautiful and brilliant. Moissanite has more fire, while diamonds have a classic, elegant sparkle.
- Hardness: Diamond is the hardest known substance (10 on the Mohs scale), while Moissanite is close behind at 9.25.
- Weight: Moissanite is 15% lighter than diamonds and is sold by size (millimetres) instead of carat weight.
- Cost: Moissanite is significantly more affordable, typically $400–$600 per carat compared to diamonds, which can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000+ per carat.
Other Diamond Alternatives
If you’re exploring beyond diamonds, you might also consider:
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds but often 30–50% less expensive.
- Colored Gemstones: Sapphires, emeralds, and rubies offer vibrant colour and personal expression.
- Cubic Zirconia (CZ): The most affordable but least durable option.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no right or wrong choice when it comes to Moissanite vs diamond—only what feels right for you. If you love the traditional romance, prestige, and value of diamonds, they’re a timeless option. But if you’re drawn to Moissanite’s brilliance, durability, and affordability, it’s a modern gemstone worth considering.
Still unsure? Visit Nature Sparkle to explore our stunning collections of natural and lab-grown diamond engagement rings and discover a look that captures your love perfectly.
