Table of Contents:
Introduction
So, you’re in the market for some dazzling jewelry, and you’ve narrowed it down to two stunning options: moissanite and lab created diamonds. These two stones are stunning, long-lasting, and sustainable; however, deciding between the two can be challenging. Now, let us discuss the differences, benefits and things to bear in mind so that you can choose what is best for you.
Understanding Moissanite
Moissanite is a stone that is relatively new to the market but is fast becoming a favorite to the diamond. Originally discovered in a meteorite by a French scientist, Henri Moissan, moissanite is today synthesized in order to mimic the natural stone in terms of brilliance and hardness.
One of the most outstanding characteristics of moissanite is that it is very brilliant. If light hits moissanite stone it reflects in a manner that resembles a rainbow and in some cases even brighter than the light in diamonds. This makes moissanite very brilliant and ideal for people who like their jewelry to be a little more sparkle. It is also a very dense mineral, which falls under number 9.25 on the Mohs scale only a level below diamonds which are ranked 10. This means that moissanite is strong enough to be used in daily activities such as working or even during engagements, thus appropriate for engagement rings or any other rings.
But the real incentive of moissanite? It’s the price. It can be said that moissanite is much cheaper than diamonds, although it can cost several times less for the stone of the same size. If you want to get the most out of your dollar while still getting a beautiful ring, moissanite is perfect.
What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab Grown diamonds or Lab cultured diamonds, as they are also called, are diamonds that are grown in laboratories. They have been synthesized to be chemically and physically indistinguishable from mined diamonds and therefore have the same luster, hardness and overall look of a natural diamond.
Lab grown diamonds are grown by replicating the conditions that are required by the earth’s crust to produce a diamond naturally. This leads to a stone that looks as good as any mined diamond. Indeed, the distinction between a synthetic and a natural diamond cannot be distinguished using an ordinary eye or even a loupe, even for an experienced gemologist.
The most crucial factor that make people to opt for lab grown diamonds is the fact that they are environmentally friendly. As these diamonds are artificially created in a laboratory, there is no process of mining which is very destructive to the environment and the people living in that region. When you decide to buy a lab grown diamond, you are getting a stunning piece of jewelry that is also socially ethical.
Lab grown diamonds are also affordable than natural diamonds although they are relatively costlier than moissanite. But they do not lose their worth and have an added advantage of being a ‘real’ diamond which is a plus for many consumers.
Comparing Moissanite and Lab Grown Diamonds
Having gone through the properties of each stone individually, it is now time to make a direct comparison.
• Brilliance: Moissanite has more fire than a diamond, which means that it disperses light into the spectrum more than a diamond does. In case you want even more sparkle and do not care if the stone is not a diamond, you can choose moissanite. Lab grown diamonds, on the other hand, have that typical diamond brilliance that many people love.
• Durability: As for the hardness, both moissanite and lab grown diamonds are incredibly durable, slightly less than diamond according to the Mohs scale. Both can be worn in any occasion and can easily endure the wear and tear of day to day use.
• Price: In terms of the cost, moissanite is cheaper than diamond. It is possible to obtain a bigger or better quality moissanite stone for the same amount of money that one would spend on a smaller or lower quality lab created diamond. Lab grown diamonds are relatively costlier than moissanite, although they are still cheaper than natural diamonds.
• Ethical Considerations: As for the ethical concerns, moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are much more suitable options than mined diamonds. It is free from conflict diamonds and the environmental effect is negligible. Thus, if ethical sourcing is a concern to you, both these options are good choices.
• Aesthetics and Perception: This is a matter of choice or personal opinion. Some people like the appearance of moissanite because of the brilliance, while others are interested in the classic diamond appearance that is associated with lab grown diamonds. It is also important to think about how the jewelry will be viewed; although lab grown diamonds are considered to be virtually identical to natural diamonds, moissanite is known for its own unique qualities.
Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between moissanite and lab grown diamonds is quite personal depending on preference, budget and priorities. If you are on a tight budget and want to get the most sparkle for your money and if you are open to considering something a little out of the ordinary, then moissanite is for you. On the other hand, if you are interested in the status associated with a diamond and are ready to pay a little more, then a synthetic diamond will be more suitable.
At Lyra Jewels, we understand that every customer is different and that is why we have a large selection of moissanite and lab grown diamonds. Whether you're in search of an engagement ring or a ring that you will wear every day, we will assist you in finding the right piece that suits your style and values.
It’s important to understand that there is no better option between moissanite and lab-grown diamonds – it’s all about the choice that will be best for you. In both case, you are getting beauty, durability, and ethical satisfaction with your choice, so you can’t go wrong either way. So take your time, explore your options, and select the stone that you like. And if you need any assistance along the way, Lyra Jewels is always happy to help you on the way to finding the perfect sparkle.