Moissanite is a different gemstone from diamond, not a fake diamond. It is almost as hard (9.25 on the Mohs scale vs 10), has more colorful rainbow sparkle, and costs a small fraction of a diamond of the same size. Diamond has a whiter, more classic brilliance and holds more value. Choose moissanite for a large, durable stone on a budget; choose diamond if you want the traditional look and some resale value.
Moissanite has become one of the most popular alternatives to diamond for engagement rings. It is a beautiful, durable stone in its own right. Here is how the two compare.
What moissanite is
Moissanite is silicon carbide, first found in a meteor crater and now made in labs. It is a distinct gemstone, not a diamond simulant like cubic zirconia, and it is far harder and more brilliant than glass or CZ.
Side by side
| Moissanite | Diamond | |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9.25 | 10 |
| Sparkle | More colorful “fire,” rainbow flashes | Whiter brilliance with balanced fire |
| Color | Colorless to near-colorless grades available | Graded D to Z |
| Price | A fraction of diamond for the same size | Much higher |
| Resale value | Very little | Some, especially natural |
| Origin | Lab-created | Natural or lab-grown |
Sparkle
Moissanite has a higher refractive index and much higher dispersion than diamond, so it throws more colorful flashes. Some people love this “disco ball” effect; others prefer diamond’s crisper, whiter look. Cut quality and stone size affect how noticeable the difference is.
Durability
Both stones are excellent for daily wear. Moissanite won’t scratch in normal use and is tougher than sapphire and ruby. Diamond remains the hardest, but both can chip with a hard knock at the wrong angle.
Price and value
The biggest difference. A moissanite engagement ring stone costs a small fraction of a diamond of the same size, which lets buyers choose a larger stone or put more budget into the setting. Neither moissanite nor lab-grown diamonds hold resale value; natural diamonds hold some.
Who should choose which
Choose moissanite if:
- You want a large stone and a modest budget.
- You love colorful sparkle.
- Resale value doesn’t matter to you.
Choose diamond if:
- You want the traditional diamond look and name.
- You want some long-term value (natural diamond).
- You prefer a whiter, more classic brilliance.
Buying tips
- Ask for the color grade: look for colorless or near-colorless moissanite.
- Check the cut, as with diamonds: a well-cut stone sparkles far more.
- Look for a warranty from the maker, often offered on quality moissanite.
Common questions
Can people tell moissanite from diamond?
Most people can't at a glance. In bright light, moissanite shows more colorful flashes, which a trained eye may notice, especially in larger stones. Jewelers can tell them apart with a tester.
Is moissanite durable enough for an engagement ring?
Yes. At 9.25 on the Mohs scale it is harder than every gemstone except diamond, and it is suitable for everyday wear.
Does moissanite get cloudy?
No. Moissanite doesn't cloud or change color. Like any stone, it can look dull when dirty and sparkles again after cleaning.