As the new generation of consumers shy away from mined diamonds, the natural question these consumers are posed with is ’which diamond alternative should I go with?’ Out of all the gemstones that can substitute diamonds, Moissanite and Lab Grown Diamonds are the frontrunners. Gemstones like cubic zirconia (CZ) and white sapphire come close, but their chemical and visual differences to diamonds leave them a level below Moissanite and Lab Grown Diamonds.
What’s the same?
The key similarity between both Moissanite and Lab Grown Diamonds (LGDs) is that they are sustainable. As these gemstones are curated in a laboratory, they are conflict-free and require no mining, hence significantly reducing the carbon footprint associated with these gems. An additional similarity is the close visual resemblance to a diamond. Even to the most trained-eyes, a natural diamond, LGD and moissanite can not be distinguished. The third and final similarity between LGDs and Moissanites is they are both much, much cheaper than mined diamonds – customers can save up to 30% – 70% by opting for a diamond alternative.
What’s different?
Sparkle and fire are the two most significant visual differences between Moissanite and LGDs. Moissanite sparkles more than a diamond and has more fire; this means that Moissanites look shinier and slightly more colourful than a diamond – a mini firework if you will. Another significant difference between Moissanites and LGDs is the price point. Generally speaking, Moissanites are more affordable than LGDs with the same colour, cut, clarity and carat weight.
Which one is better?
It is difficult, if not impossible, to point to either Moissanite or LGD and say this gemstone is better. This is because it simply boils down to the values of each buyer. Are they conscious of the budget? Do they want their gemstone to be a diamond?
Essentially, if a buyer is set on having a ‘diamond’ – and one that no one will question – then LGDs are a better choice. However, if they wish to look for a stone which has more sparkle and only wish to pay a fraction of the cost of a natural diamond, then Moissanite is the better choice.
