It may have been nearly a hundred years now since Henri Moissan first discovered moissanite, but the gem has recently come into vogue as a more affordable alternative to a traditional diamond for important jewellery such as engagement rings. But who really wins in the contest between moissanite vs diamond?
Round One: Cost
The first contest between moissanite vs diamond is in the area of cost. As everyone knows, traditional diamonds are one of the rarest gems on the planet, and that rarity commands a very high price tag. Some would argue that this high price tag is part of what appeals about diamonds: they become an instant signifier of wealth (or debt, as the case may be). Moissanites, by contrast, are much more plentifully found and can be had for just a fraction of the cost. So, if cost is a concern, then round one is really no contest at all: moissanite wins!
Round Two: Quality
The second battleground on which moissanite vs diamond plays out is quality. People value diamonds in part because of their stunning beauty: their clarity and luster are some of their most prized qualities. But this is an area where moissanite shouldn’t be overlooked! As a silicon carbide gem, moissanite tends to look very similar to diamond, with a similar hardness, and a similar ability to take finely wrought cuts for that brilliance and luster we all love. The one area they differ slightly is colour: moissanite tends to have a faint green or yellow tint. The winner of this round ultimately comes down to whether or not you’ll willing to pay a premium for a perfectly colourless diamond, or invest that money in something else by going with moissanite jewellery instead.
Lily Arkwright is a leading provider of lab grown diamonds and a great source of information in the moissanite vs diamond debate.
