Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Moissanite

When selecting a stone for something personal, like an engagement ring or a gift of a lifetime, you're not simply choosing a sparkly gem; you're selecting values, personality, and making a statement.

In an age of consciousness around our new world, the conversation of lab-grown diamonds vs Moissanite is now more misleading than ever! They are both sustainable, ethical, and beautiful, but that's where the similarities end.

Still deciding between choosing Moissanite vs lab diamond? You are not alone! Let's simplify the differences between Moissanite and lab diamond, clearly and without marketing fluff.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Vs Moissanite?

What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is a diamond! It is a diamond created above ground using advanced technology to replicate the extreme heat and pressure that occur in the Earth's crust. Chemically, physically, and optically, it is indistinguishable from a natural diamond.

The only part where lab diamond and Moissanite differ for this? Lab diamonds are diamonds. Period. Even professionals use tools to determine if a lab-created diamond is mined or created.

What Is Moissanite?

On the other hand, Moissanite has a unique story. Moissanite was originally discovered within a meteor and has now been fully lab-created from silicon carbide. It’s not a diamond, but it looks like one with its fire and rainbow sparkle. The first, and major difference when looking at lab-created diamond vs Moissanite, is that Moissanite is not trying to be a diamond--it is a different gem altogether with its brilliance and affordability.

Visual Differences: Side By Side Sparkle

Now, let's get into the real-world difference between Moissanite and lab diamond, which is the look.

Lab-Created Diamond

• Emitting a clear, white sparkle
• Sharp brilliance that feels timeless
• Mimicking the elegance of natural diamond

Moissanite

• Displays intense fire - think rainbow flashes
• “Some” may find it “too sparkly” under lights
• Bolder and eye-catching

If you are comparing lab diamond vs Moissanite for your forever ring, ask yourself, do I want timeless elegance, or high-voltage dazzle?

Price Check: What Do They Cost?

Here's an important aspect of the Moissanite vs lab diamond debate - price.

Prices for the following gems typically come in around:

• Lab diamond (1 carat): ₹70,000 to ₹1,00,000
• Moissanite (1 carat): ₹20,000 to ₹40,000
  

That's a big price difference. If you want the diamond feel and tradition, but you're not willing to spend the same amount as you would for a natural diamond, lab-grown is great! But if you are going large on size or simply going large on budget, Moissanite could win the lab-created diamond vs Moissanite battle.

Durability: Will They Last Forever?

Both stones wear beautifully over time.

Lab diamonds are 10 on the Mohs hardness scale- the hardest material on earth.

Moissanites are a 9.25- quite strong enough for everyday wear.

So, when it comes to the difference in durability between Moissanite and lab diamonds, you are safe either way. Both will last.

Ethics & Sustainability 

Many people are searching for “lab-created diamond vs Moissanite” for another reason: ethics. 

Lab-grown diamonds are guaranteed conflict-free and skip mining entirely, even destructive mining. Many are even made using renewable energy. 

Moissanite is fully lab-made and does not involve environmental destruction either. 

Both stones embody our modern principles: ethical, sustainable, and transparent. So, if you want to pursue conscious luxury, it’s a no-lose game for the lab diamond vs Moissanite argument. 

Certification: Is It Official? 

Lab-grown diamonds are certified by reputable institutions, such as GIA, IGI, and SGL. A report will include cut, color, clarity, and carat, just like mined diamonds.

Moissanite does not have a global standard for certification. Some brands provide in-house grading figures, but currently, there is not one global point of reference. 

If you feel that documentation and resale value are important to you, this could be the deciding factor in lab-created diamond vs Moissanite.

Emotional Connection - What do they feel like?

Lab-grown diamonds convey tradition, with a modern twist. Ideal for those who want the feel of a diamond, without the guilt.

Moissanite feels bold, different, and confident. It sends the message, "I love my way, not the old way."

The emotional divide between Moissanite and lab diamond is real. One is about tradition reimagined, and the other is proud, rule-rewriting.

What about common myths?

“Moissanite is fake.” - False. It is a real gemstone; it is just not a diamond.

“Lab diamonds have no value.” - Incorrect. Lab diamonds exist as diamonds, with a certification, with resale value, and an emotional charge.

“They look different.” - Most people do not know the difference between Moissanite and lab diamond, unless it is in strict light or magnification.

Ultimately, what do you choose?

Choose a lab-grown diamond if:

• You want the real thing that meets ethical standards
• You care about vintage certification and long-term value
• You want classic, clean sparkle

Choose Moissanite if:

• You want the dramatic, fiery look for less (unless you want to pay for it!)
• You do not care about tradition
• You want a gemstone that does not apologize for being different

If you're having a preference for lab-grown diamonds after comparing with Moissanites, there are a lot more options to look at other than engagement rings. Réia has a complete range of lab-grown diamond jewellery from statement lab-grown diamond rings to stunning lab diamond earrings, made with the same ethics, brilliance, and beauty that make lab diamonds so special.

In the end, this lab-grown diamonds vs moissanite guide isn’t about ‘who’s right or wrong’. Instead, it’s about who you are, what you believe, and what makes you feel something.

Because in the end, you are not just wearing a gemstone, you’re wearing a ‘choice’.

FAQs: Lab-Created Diamonds vs Moissanite

1. Is Moissanite a real diamond?

Moissanite is NOT a diamond; it is a completely different gemstone made of silicon carbide. While it looks similar to a diamond, it has completely different characteristics.

2. Can lab-created diamonds be certified?

Yes, just like mined diamonds, lab-created diamonds can be certified by IGI, GIA, or other organizations.

3. Which one is cheaper, lab diamond or Moissanite?

A Moissanite will typically have a lower cost than a lab-created diamond of equal size in most situations.

4. Do lab-created diamonds last the same length of time as natural diamonds?

Lab-created diamonds and natural diamonds are equally durable. Both are rated as a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.

5. Which one sparkles more?

Moissanite has more sparkle with its rainbow flashes of light, while a lab-created diamond is more traditional with its bright white brilliance.