Moissanite vs. Lab Grown Diamonds
Moissanite and Lab-Grown diamonds are often compared because both are popular alternatives to mined diamonds. However, they are not the same stone. A Lab-Grown diamond is a real diamond, while moissanite is a different gemstone with different optical and physical properties.
At Pear Jewels Australia, we specialise in premium Lab-Grown diamond jewellery crafted for modern Australian buyers, with IGI certification included whenever applicable.
The Main Difference
Lab-Grown diamonds are real diamonds made from carbon. They have the same chemical, physical and optical properties as mined diamonds.
Moissanite is a separate gemstone made from silicon carbide. It can look diamond-like, but it is not a diamond.
| Factor | Moissanite | Lab-Grown Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Gemstone Type | Silicon carbide | Real carbon diamond |
| Sparkle | More rainbow-like fire | Classic diamond brilliance |
| Hardness | Very durable | Hardest gemstone |
| Certification | Different grading approach | Often IGI certified |
Sparkle and Appearance
Moissanite often has a rainbow-like sparkle that can appear more colourful than diamond sparkle, especially in larger stones.
Lab-Grown diamonds offer the classic diamond brilliance, fire and scintillation customers expect from premium engagement rings.
Hardness and Daily Wear
Diamonds are the hardest known gemstone and rank 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Moissanite is also durable, but it is not as hard as diamond.
Both can be suitable for jewellery, but Lab-Grown diamonds are preferred by customers who want a real diamond for everyday wear.
Price and Value
Moissanite is usually less expensive than Lab-Grown diamonds. However, the lower price reflects the fact that it is a different gemstone, not a diamond.
Lab-Grown diamonds offer strong value compared with mined diamonds while still giving customers genuine diamond beauty.
Certification
Lab-Grown diamonds can be graded by laboratories such as IGI, confirming cut, colour, clarity, carat and origin.
Moissanite grading is different and does not follow the same diamond 4Cs in the same way.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose moissanite if your main priority is a lower price and a colourful sparkle. Choose Lab-Grown diamonds if you want a real diamond with classic brilliance and premium jewellery appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is moissanite a diamond?
No. Moissanite is a different gemstone, while a Lab-Grown diamond is a real diamond.
Which sparkles more?
Moissanite can show more rainbow fire, while Lab-Grown diamonds offer classic diamond sparkle.
Is moissanite cheaper than Lab-Grown diamonds?
Usually yes, because it is not a diamond.
Which is better for engagement rings?
Lab-Grown diamonds are better if you want a real diamond with premium appeal.
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