The Differences Between a Moissanite and a Diamond

At first glance, moissanite and diamond can look almost identical. They’re both clear, sparkly, and often found in engagement rings—but beneath the surface, they’re quite different.

So what exactly separates these two stones?
Is one better than the other?
And which one should you choose for your engagement ring?

This guide compares moissanite vs diamond—looking at composition, brilliance, durability, price, ethics, and more—so you can choose the perfect stone for your values, lifestyle, and taste.

1. What They’re Made Of

Diamonds are formed under immense heat and pressure, either beneath the earth or replicated in a lab.
Moissanite is a separate gemstone discovered in meteorites, now grown in labs due to its rarity.

💡 They are not the same material—so they are technically different stones.

2. Brilliance and Sparkle

Both stones shine beautifully, but they shine differently.

• Diamond: Returns mostly white light, with a classic, crisp brilliance.

• Moissanite: Has a higher refractive index (2.65 vs 2.42) and returns more rainbow fire.

In natural sunlight, moissanite sparkles more dramatically, while diamonds appear slightly more subdued and clean.

Some people love moissanite’s fireworks; others prefer diamond’s classic look. It’s a matter of personal taste.

3. Colour and Clarity

High-quality moissanite and diamonds can both appear colourless and eye-clean, but:

• Diamonds are graded on colour and clarity (D–Z, FL–I3)

• Moissanite is usually sold as DEF (colourless) and VVS1 by trusted jewellers

💡 Diamonds can show slight tints or inclusions depending on grade and price. Moissanite is lab-controlled, so it tends to be flawless by default.

4. Durability and Longevity

Both are highly durable and perfect for everyday wear. Diamond is the hardest natural material on Earth, but moissanite is harder than most gemstones, including sapphire and ruby.

5. Price Comparison

💡 With moissanite, you can often afford a larger, higher-quality stone—or invest more into the setting.

6. Ethics and Sourcing

• Mined diamonds: May involve environmental disruption and ethical concerns

• Lab diamonds: More ethical, but energy-intensive to produce

• Moissanite: Always lab-created, low carbon footprint, fully traceable

✅ Moissanite is one of the most ethical and sustainable gemstones available.

7. Value: Emotional vs Monetary

• Diamonds hold cultural prestige and modest resale value

• Moissanite holds emotional value and modern appeal, but lower resale value

But for most people, the symbolic value of the ring far outweighs resale concerns.

Which One Should You Choose?

| Choose Moissanite if you want:

• More sparkle and fire

• Better value per size

• Fully ethical sourcing

• A unique, modern statement

| Choose Diamond if you want:

• A timeless, traditional symbol

• Subtle, crisp brilliance

• Higher perceived value or resale potential

• A “forever stone” with luxury legacy

Featured Moissanite Ring:

✨ Luna Oval Solitaire Ring – Lab Diamond or Moissanite
A timeless silhouette available with a brilliant-cut moissanite in your choice of gold or platinum. Elegant, refined, and built to shine forever.

Final Thoughts

Moissanite and diamonds are both incredible choices—but for different reasons.
The better option is the one that reflects your values, priorities, and personal story.

💍 Your ring should sparkle not just with light—but with meaning.

Book a Consultation to Compare Them in Person

Whether you're choosing between moissanite and lab-grown diamonds—or designing a custom ring—we’ll help you compare, visualise, and build the perfect piece.

📍 Book your consultation with Diamond Lab