At Barkev’s, we understand that choosing the perfect gemstone can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, moissanite and lab grown diamonds have become two popular choices. Both are ethical, sparkly, and affordable, but how do you decide which one is right for you?

We’re here to make that decision easier. In this article, we’ll compare moissanite and lab grown diamonds in a simple and clear way. We’ll also answer the most common questions people have about these two stones.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll have all the facts you need to pick the perfect gem with confidence. Let’s get started!

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite might sound fancy, but it is a gemstone with an incredible story. It was first discovered in 1893 by a French scientist named Henri Moissan in a meteor crater. That is right, moissanite originally came from space.

Today, moissanite is made in labs because finding it naturally is as rare as spotting a shooting star. It is created using silicon carbide, which gives it incredible durability and that fiery rainbow like sparkle.

At Barkev’s, we love moissanite because it offers beauty and brilliance without the high price tag. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dazzling stone that does not compromise on quality or ethics.

Now that you know about moissanite, let us explore its competitor, the lab grown diamond.

What is a Lab Grown Diamond?

Lab grown diamonds are just what they sound like. They are diamonds created in a laboratory instead of being mined from the earth. The process mimics how natural diamonds form, using high pressure and high temperature or carbon vapor deposition. The result is a diamond that is chemically, physically, and optically identical to one pulled from the ground.

The beauty of lab grown diamonds is their versatility. They are just as dazzling as natural diamonds but come without the environmental impact or ethical concerns of mining. At Barkev’s, we have worked with these stunning stones for years and love how they combine tradition with modern innovation.

If you are wondering whether lab grown diamonds sparkle just like natural ones, the answer is yes. They have the same brilliance, durability, and timeless appeal, making them a fantastic choice for any special piece of jewelry.

Now that we know what lab grown diamonds are, let us compare them with moissanite to see what sets these stones apart.

Moissanite vs Lab Diamond: Key Differences

Now that you know what moissanite and lab grown diamonds are, let us compare them head to head. While they may look similar, these two gemstones have some big differences.

1. Composition and Structure

Moissanite is made from silicon carbide, which gives it its fiery brilliance. Lab grown diamonds, on the other hand, are pure carbon, just like natural diamonds. This difference in material is what creates their unique properties.

2. Hardness and Durability

Diamonds, including lab grown ones, are the hardest substance on Earth with a perfect score of 10 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite is not far behind with a score of 9.25, making it plenty durable for everyday wear. Both options are tough, but diamonds take the top spot for scratch resistance.

3. Brilliance and Fire

Here is where the stones really stand apart. Moissanite is famous for its colorful, rainbow-like flashes of light. Lab grown diamonds, meanwhile, have that classic, balanced sparkle that people love in traditional diamonds. It all depends on whether you prefer a bold sparkle or a more understated shimmer.

4. Color and Clarity

Moissanite is usually near colorless but can sometimes show slight tints in certain lighting. Lab grown diamonds come in a wide range of colors, from completely colorless to fancy hues like yellow or pink. Both options are high quality, but lab diamonds are graded using the same strict standards as natural ones.

5. Price

If budget is a priority, moissanite is the more affordable option. You can get a larger stone for less money. Lab grown diamonds, while less expensive than natural diamonds, still cost more than moissanite due to their identical properties to mined diamonds.

Choosing between these two depends on your preferences and priorities. Both stones have their own charm, and either one can make a stunning centerpiece for a ring or other piece of jewelry. Up next, we will weigh the pros and cons of each option to help you decide.

Pros and Cons of Moissanite

Moissanite is a showstopper in its own right. It has plenty of advantages, but like anything, it is not perfect. Here is a quick breakdown.

Pros

• Affordable luxury: Moissanite gives you sparkle without the steep price. You can go bigger without spending more.
• Super durable: With its impressive hardness, it is tough enough for daily wear and tear.
• Eco-conscious choice: Since it is lab created, moissanite has minimal environmental impact.
• Eye-catching brilliance: If you love bold, colorful sparkle, moissanite has you covered.

Cons

• Different sparkle: Its fiery flashes may not appeal to those who prefer the classic brilliance of a diamond.
• Lower resale value: Moissanite is not as valuable in the resale market as lab grown diamonds.

Moissanite is perfect for someone who loves a bold, unique look and values affordability and sustainability. Next, let us see how lab grown diamonds stack up.

Pros and Cons of Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds bring the timeless elegance of diamonds with a modern twist. They have a lot to offer, but they are not without their drawbacks. Here is the breakdown.

Pros

• Identical to natural diamonds: Lab grown diamonds look, feel, and sparkle exactly like their mined counterparts.
• Extreme durability: As the hardest material on Earth, they can handle anything life throws at them.
• Ethical and sustainable: Because they are created in controlled environments, there are no concerns about mining practices or environmental harm.
• Higher resale value: Compared to moissanite, lab grown diamonds tend to hold more value over time.

Cons

• Higher cost: While cheaper than mined diamonds, they are still more expensive than moissanite.
• Traditional sparkle: If you are looking for a bold, fiery sparkle, lab grown diamonds might feel a bit more understated.

Lab grown diamonds are ideal for anyone who wants the classic look and feel of a diamond without the environmental or ethical concerns of mining. They offer timeless beauty with a responsible touch. Up next, we will answer the most common questions people have about these two stunning stones.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to moissanite and lab grown diamonds, people have plenty of questions. We’ve gathered the most common ones to help clear up any confusion.

Can you tell the difference between moissanite and a lab grown diamond?

To most people, the difference is not obvious. Both stones are dazzling, but under close inspection, moissanite tends to have more colorful, fiery flashes, while lab grown diamonds have the balanced brilliance of natural diamonds.

Is moissanite as hard as a lab grown diamond?

Not quite, but it is close. Lab grown diamonds are the hardest material, rated a 10 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite scores 9.25, which is still incredibly durable and perfect for everyday wear.

Does moissanite sparkle more than a lab grown diamond?

Yes, but it depends on what you mean by sparkle. Moissanite has a higher refractive index, so its flashes of light are more colorful and bold. Lab grown diamonds have a more classic sparkle with a balance of white and colored light.

Are moissanite rings cheaper than lab grown diamond rings?

Absolutely. Moissanite is the more affordable option, offering a bigger look for less money. Lab grown diamonds are less expensive than natural diamonds but still cost more than moissanite.

Are both moissanite and lab grown diamonds ethical choices?

Yes, both are great ethical choices. They are created in labs, so there are no concerns about mining practices or environmental damage.

These questions help highlight the key differences between moissanite and lab grown diamonds. If you still have more questions, feel free to reach out to us. We love helping people find their perfect stone. Let us wrap things up in the next section.

Conclusion

Choosing between moissanite and lab grown diamonds comes down to what matters most to you. Both are stunning, ethical, and durable, but they each bring something unique to the table.

If you want bold brilliance and a budget friendly option, moissanite is an excellent choice. Its colorful sparkle and lower price make it perfect for those looking for something different yet dazzling.

For those who love the classic beauty of diamonds, lab grown diamonds offer the same elegance as natural ones without the ethical concerns or hefty price tag. They are timeless, versatile, and hold more value over time.

At the end of the day, the right choice is the one that feels like you. Whether you are drawn to the fiery glow of moissanite or the timeless charm of a lab grown diamond, Barkev’s is here to help. We can guide you through the options and make sure your final choice is something you will cherish forever.

Let your journey to the perfect sparkle begin!