Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Moissanite: What Do You Choose?
It is always confusing choosing the perfect gemstone for jewelry. Lab-Grown Diamonds and moissanite are popular options nowadays. Both of them are beautiful, durable, and reasonable in comparison to the natural diamond. This article is a lab grown diamond and moissanite comparison to help you make the right choice. We take into account factors like color, hardness, price, clarity, brilliance, and shopping factors.
Gemstones are not only a fashion statement. They are a monetary and emotional investment. Diamond engagement rings are very expensive, so alternative options like lab-grown diamonds and moissanite are gaining popularity. The two stones look the same, but they have their own set of features. Understanding what the differences are will help you decide which stone fits your fashion, budget, and needs.
What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
A lab-grown diamond is a diamond that has been grown in a lab with the help of sophisticated technology. It has exactly the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as a natural diamond. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, just grown in a lab. They are green-friendly and sometimes cheaper than mined diamonds. The majority of jewelers carry a selection of lab-grown diamonds in different sizes and shapes.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a silicon carbide gem. Moissanite initially occurred in a meteorite. Today, moissanite is largely created synthetically in laboratories. Moissanite is very hard and blazing, and because of this, it is a top choice among diamond substitutes. Moissanite is generally less expensive than synthetic diamonds. Its fire and brilliance are also the reasons why it is a top pick for fashion jewelry and engagement rings.
Things that set moissanite and diamonds apart
Color
Lab diamonds are normally colorless or nearly colorless. Lab diamonds can look almost like natural diamonds. Moissanite will have a yellow or green tinge under particular lighting conditions. While most love its fiery sparkle, the color difference is evident when put side by side.
Hardness
Diamonds are the hardest known gemstones with a Mohs score of 10. Lab-grown diamonds of gem quality are equally hard. Moissanite is very hard with a score of 9.25. It is hard-wearing and would be worn daily but is not as scratch-resistant as diamonds.
Price
One of the differences is cost. Cultured diamonds cost less than natural diamonds but more than moissanite. Moissanite is a large, firestone for pennies on the dollar. If cost is a factor, moissanite is an acceptable option.
Clarity
Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or flaws. Laboratory-grown diamonds are usually flawless or have very few inclusions. Moissanite has small inclusions, but they are rarely visible to the naked eye. Both gems will be likely to appear clear and beautiful in jewelry.
Brilliance
Brilliance is how a gemstone returns light. Moissanite returns with a fiery shine, typically brighter than diamonds. Lab diamonds return with a gentle, classic shine similar to natural diamonds. This is based on whether you prefer a classic shine or one that is more fiery in impact.
Things to keep in mind when buying lab-grown diamonds or moissantie
When choosing between moissanite and lab-created diamonds, use your budget, style, and usage. If you want the traditional colorless diamond look, lab-created diamonds are ideal. If you want a larger stone with ultimate brilliance at a reduced price point, moissanite may be the best option. Take durability, long-term value, and your own preference into account. In addition, check the certificate and quality of the gemstone before buying.
Conclusion
Both lab-grown diamonds and moissanite have their benefits. Lab-grown diamonds offer the classic diamond allure, with extreme hardness and long-term value. Moissanite offers a fiery brilliance, strength, and affordability. Your choice depends on what matters most to you including price, brilliance, or heritage. With the proper understanding of how they differ, you can make an informed decision and choose the gemstone that suits your style and needs.