Everything You Need To Know About Moissanite Engagement Rings & Gems

November 22, 2022 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

Moissanite is a stunning gemstone that looks similar to a diamond. It’s known for its durability, brilliance, and fire. Because they are more affordable and environmentally friendly than a traditional diamond, a moissanite solitaire ring is a fantastic substitute.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a man-made gemstone that was discovered in 1893. It was named after a French chemist, Henri Moissan, who first discovered it. Moissanite is a carbon-based gem and not a diamond alternative. Due to its chemical composition, Moissanite has been referred to as a “cultured” or lab-created diamond alternative since the 1990s.

Does Moissanite look like a diamond?

Moissanite is a diamond simulant. It looks like a diamond, but it’s less expensive.

Moissanite has a different chemical composition than diamonds, which makes them more durable and gives them their unique brilliance. 

However, they also have a different crystal structure than diamonds and don’t sparkle as much as real diamonds in white light the way most of us see them. They shine more brightly under ultraviolet light than most synthetic stones and real diamonds.

Why choose moissanite engagement rings and diamonds?

Moissanite is a rare gemstone less expensive than diamonds, more durable, fire resistant, and less likely to break. It has qualities similar to a diamond but is more durable than a diamond. Moissanite engagement rings are more affordable while still being beautiful. Diamonds have been the traditional choice in engagement rings for centuries, but there are no other options available if you want something different or unique.

Moissanite color grades

for moissanite range from D to Z.

• D-colorless or near-colorless, with only subtle hints of gray or yellow
• E-near colorless with an ever-so-slightly detectable warm tone that gives the gemstone a hint of light peach or apricot
• F-near colorless G-near colorless 
• H, and I are almost indistinguishable from one another in terms of their appearance under magnification. Both grades display just about no noticeable warmth, meaning you’ll see no yellow or brown hues when examining either stone up close. 

Moissanite vs. diamond

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone with many advantages over diamonds. It’s made from silicon carbide, harder than any other natural or synthetic material on Earth. It’s also more durable and less expensive than diamonds.

Before you get too excited, it’s important to know that Moissanite is still diamond, a member of the carbon family with similar properties to other gems like ruby or sapphire. They even look similar in appearance. However, if you want an engagement ring with more flair than a classic diamond, this stone may be just what you’re looking for.

Moissanite is a gemstone with unique properties but it isn’t a diamond

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone with unique properties. It has been called the closest thing to a diamond, but it isn’t a diamond. Henri Moissan made the 1893 discovery of Moissanite, which bears his name.

A moissanite solitaire ring is harder than a diamond and less dense, reflecting less light through your eyes. The lower refractive index also means you get a larger stone for your money when comparing Moissanite with diamonds of similar size.

Moissanite’s hardness and lower refractive index have made it popular as an alternative to diamonds for jewelry manufacturers and brides-to-be who want something different from traditional engagement rings.

Moissanite’s durability and strength attract many to the gem. Still, some consumers feel Moissanite is too expensive and want a simulated diamond alternative. However, you can have a high-quality diamond substitute for less money than a fake diamond with a similar appearance.