Simulated Diamond vs Moissanite: Understanding the Differences
Introduction
The two options most buyers consider when they are looking for an alternative to natural diamonds are simulated diamonds and moissanite. Both are lower-cost alternatives to a diamond, they differ in composition, durability, and how they handle light. This blog will share the differences between a simulated diamond and moissanite so you can choose the right stone for your jewelry.
What is a Simulated Diamond?
Simulated diamonds are gemstones designed to look very much like natural diamonds, though they can be made from many different materials, including cubic zirconia (CZ), white sapphire, and other synthetics. Simulated diamonds usually cost less than natural diamonds or lab-grown diamonds, making them an attractive alternative for the cost-conscious consumer. Note that artificial or simulated diamonds are not real diamonds, as they do not have the same physical and chemical properties.
A Lab Grown Diamond is not a simulant; it is a real diamond, graded by the same independent labs as mined stones. If you want the real thing rather than a look-alike, start with our certified Lab Grown Diamonds.
If you want more detail, we cover cubic zirconia versus a lab grown diamond in one guide, and how to tell a real diamond from a simulant in another.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a silicon carbide (SiC) gemstone. It was discovered in a meteor crater by Henri Moissan in 1893 and has since then been synthesized for use in jewelry. Moissanite is recognized for its astonishing brilliance and fiery nature, typically greater than that of a natural diamond because of its higher refractive index (2.65-2.69). It is rated on the Mohs scale as 9.25, which makes it hard enough for daily wear.
Key Differences Between Simulated Diamonds and Moissanite
1. Composition
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Simulated Diamonds:
They are made of diverse materials such as cubic zirconia or white sapphire and are not chemically identical to natural diamonds.
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Moissanite:
It is silicon carbide, and that composition gives it distinct optical properties and durability.
2. Brilliance and Fire
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Artificial Diamonds:
They return noticeably less light compared with the brilliant fire of moissanite or a natural diamond.
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Moissanite:
Because of its high index of refraction and dispersion, it is characterized by brilliant light flashes in a spectrum of colors that the trade calls fire.
3. Durability
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Simulated Diamonds:
The endurance of such artificial stones varies with the composition; one example is cubic zirconia, which ranks about 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale.
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Moissanite:
It stands at about 9.25 on the Mohs scale, thus giving it a considerable advantage over most synthetic counterparts as it is much less prone to scratches and chips.
4. Cost
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Simulated Diamonds:
Generally, they cost less than both natural diamonds and lab-created diamonds.
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Moissanite:
Moissanite tends to be more expensive than average artificial diamonds like CZ because of its greater hardness and brilliance.
5. Appearance
Both look quite similar at first glance, but look closely and you can find differences:
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Simulated Diamonds:
They usually look flawless to the naked eye.
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Moissanite:
It has inclusions but typically has a distinct sparkle that some find attractive.
Conclusion
Choosing between a simulated diamond and moissanite comes down to personal preference regarding look, budget, and how the stone will be worn. If your priority is budget and a wide range of low-cost options, simulated diamonds may suit you. On the other hand, moissanite is probably the best bet for those who are looking for a gem that offers especially brilliant sparkle, durability, and everyday wearability.
Both moissanite and simulated diamonds are alternatives to a diamond, not diamonds themselves. Either stone can work in an engagement ring or other fine jewelry piece once you have weighed hardness, sparkle, and price against your own preferences.
About the Author
Tasha Adison
Tasha Adison crafts engaging content that highlights the beauty of jewelry design. Her writing connects readers with the stories behind each creation.
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FAQ's
The main difference between them is in the materials they are made of; simulated diamonds are made from materials that include cubic zirconia whereas moissanite is only made from silicon carbide. Not only that, moissanite is preferred for extra luster and durability.
That depends on your preferences and your budget. If a person is looking for a dazzling stone along with a considerable amount of durability, moissanite would be best. As for affordability, it is cubic zirconia that usually costs the least.
No. Real moissanite is not classed as a simulated diamond. They are very different in composition and optical behavior from typical simulant materials like cubic zirconia.
Yes. They may look alike at first, but their optical properties differ significantly in most cases, showing moissanite to be more fiery and brilliant than most simulated diamonds.
Yes. A Sona simulated diamond is a simulant, not a diamond, and it is made from a material different from the silicon carbide in moissanite. It is cut to look like a natural diamond, and physically it matches neither a natural diamond nor a lab-created diamond.
Moissanite outperforms cubic zirconia in brilliance and hardness (9.25 versus 8), and it wins on most practical kinds of durability. Both are alternatives to a diamond rather than diamonds, and moissanite has an obviously brighter sparkle.
Yes. Moissanite is a practical choice for an engagement ring on account of its highly durable and very bright properties, which make it suitable for everyday wear while still having an impressive appearance.