With the same stunning good looks as a diamond (unless you’re a jewelry expert it would be tough to tell the two apart), moissanite is a popular gem. Moissanite shares the same dazzling qualities and refracts the light in the same hypnotizing way as a diamond, but when it comes to moissanite vs diamond cost you will find yourself paying far less for moissanite jewelry.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The rising popularity of moissanite engagement rings The discovery of moissanite How much do moissanite diamonds cost? How are moissanite graded? Moissanite engagement ring cost Moissanite vs Natural Diamond Pricing Buy your moissanite ring with clarity Lab diamonds vs Moissanite
The rising popularity of moissanite engagement rings
The comparatively low cost of moissanite goes some way to explaining why this stone has become such a popular option. Moissanite engagement rings cost less, but still have the wow factor every newly engaged fiancée hankers after – let’s face it showing off the sparkler is an integral part of the celebration!
We could even go so far as to say that, in some cases, moissanite outshines real diamonds in the battle for the most striking gemstone. The stones are renowned for their durability and are made to last. They also reflect the light well and can possess an effervescence that’s sure to impress. The sparkle of moissanite rarely fades, partly due to the fact that the gem contains traces of silicone. This means the gem does not attract as much grime or grease – ensuring it stays shiny even between cleans.
Lastly, this white gemstone has become a more popular option because of its eco-friendly aspect. Most of the moissanite sold nowadays are lab-created, and therefore do not have to be mined at a deposit.
The discovery of moissanite
Moissanite has a stellar past, the mineral was discovered inside a meteor crater back in 1893. Henry Moissan was busy investigating a meteorite strike in Arizona when he happened upon diamond particles (or so he thought at the time). Upon further inspection, Moissan realized that the specks he found were not carbon as he first assumed, but silicone carbide.
Moissan had discovered natural moissanite – a rare mineral that proves to be in very short supply. As natural moissanite is extremely rare you won’t be surprised to learn that the majority of moissanite on the market has been created in a laboratory.
How much do moissanite diamonds cost?
So, what’s the cost of a moissanite ring? Well, we’ve established that the cost of moissanite diamonds is rather reasonable. But, just like other gems, the price of moissanite is determined by a number of factors.
How are moissanite graded?
Color grading
In terms of color, some display tones of yellow or green, but the colorless gems are splendidly clear. Moissanite is assessed and then classified in accordance with the following grading system:
Grade D, E and F - colorless
Grade G, H and I – near colorless
Grade J and K – has tones of color
Like a natural or lab diamond color grading system, the higher the grade if the stone is more colorless. Therefore, moissanite with grades between D to F will be more expensive.
Cut grading
It is based on the following factors: polish and symmetry, which affect light performance. Depending on the moissanite shape, there is an ideal cut proportion that has to be met. The cut grades are Fair & Poor, Good, Very Good, and Excellent. The more brilliant the stone, the higher it will rate for cut grading.
Carat weight
Carat size also plays a part – the heavier the carat – the more expensive the gemstone. A carat means its weight, so a diamond or a moissanite’s measurement in millimeters can vary depending on how it's cut.
Choose moissanite that is cut “Very Good.” Those gemstones tend to have less depth and more spread. This means their measurements are larger, making the stone look visually larger than its carat weight.
Clarity grading
In terms of clarity, the fewer inclusions, the better the clarity. The better the clarity, the more sparkle, and light performance. Gemologists refer to these imperfections by a variety of technical names, including blemishes and inclusions. Because these imperfections tend to be microscopic, they do not generally affect a diamond's beauty in any discernible way.
With gemstone grading, there are different ranks which include: AAAA, AAA, AA, A, and B qualities. At With Clarity we only offer AAA quality gemstones. AAAA gemstones are extremely rare, and AAA gemstones still have that flawless and beautiful color quality one like a type AAAA stone.
Moissanite engagement ring cost
If you’re considering buying a moissanite ring you will no doubt be asking how much does a moissanite diamond cost? Here’s a brief overview to give you an idea:
1 carat moissanite cost
Let’s explore the cost of 1-carat moissanite in comparison to that of a 1-carat diamond. As a guide, you can expect to pay around $5000 for a nearly colorless 1-carat diamond, but completely colorless moissanite will cost you significantly less at around $600.
2 carat moissanite cost
The typical cost of a 2-carat moissanite engagement ring would be approximately $1200 and a 3-carat moissanite cost price would be approximately $3000. The price continues to rise for heavier carat weights.
Moissanite vs Natural Diamond Pricing
Based off of solitaire 14kt white gold setting, the most popular shape (round), color grading (I-G), and clarity grades (VS2 and VS1) for With Clarity.
| Carat Weight | 0.5 | 0.75 | 1 | 1.5 | 2 | 2.5 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moissanite Average Price | $1,080 | $1,155 | $1,405 | $1,730 | $1,905 | $2,480 | $2,960 |
| Diamond Average Price | $2,080 | $2,180 | $5,180 | $6,980 | $11,080 | $12,180 | $25,980 |
If you plan to purchase a moissanite ring versus a diamond ring, you can expect 20%-50% of savings, depending on carat size and ring settings.
Buy your moissanite ring with clarity
Looking to buy a beautiful moissanite engagement ring? Here at With Clarity, we offer Forever One Moissanite. Forever One is colorless and high quality moissanite that has set the global standard for all other moissanite providers. We offer gorgeous Forever One moissanite rings up to 3 carats in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum.
Our starting prices for Forever One Moissanite engagement rings range from $600 to $3000. We choose to work with Charles & Colvard because of their sustainable standards, and highest grading standards for color, clarity, and cut. For any further questions about our moissanite,contact us.
Lab diamonds vs Moissanite
Moissanite naturally occurs in small sizes, sometimes not even sufficient to be cut into even a one-carat gemstone. Because of this, lab grown Moissanites are used commonly in fine jewelry. A more affordable option than a diamond or a lab grown diamond, they are about a 9.5 on the Mohs hardness scale as compared to the 10 of the natural diamond as well as a lab grown diamond.
When talking about diamonds, it is also important to mention a lab diamond. There are many differences between a Moissanite and a lab grown diamond, starting with their composition. But some may confuse them while simply looking at them. If you are looking for something that has the same chemical composition as a natural diamond (carbon), then get a lab grown diamond. Moissanite is made of silica as well as carbon.
The most noticeable difference between the two is the sparkle. While the Moissanite sparkles more than a diamond, it also offers a more colorful rainbow-like reflection. Isn't that pretty? That’s really what catches the eye. That’s not to say that a lab grown diamond doesn’t sparkle, but it is comparatively lesser than the Moissanite. Also, lab grown diamonds can be colorless but can also come in any other color. Moissanite on the other hand is only colorless or comes in yellowish-green shades. But do take note, colored moissanite has also been specially created by adding a layer of blue and green, just for jewelry purposes. For those who will have it, diamonds are singly refractive while Moissanites are doubly refractive. Do you know when you look at the stone from an angle and notice the facets? That’s refraction in simple words.
For couples who want a non-diamond center stone with a lot of sparkle, Moissanites offer an affordable as well as a durable choice for an engagement ring. For couples who prefer to go the traditional route, a lab grown diamond offers a gem with an IGI certificate.
FAQs
Is Moissanite growing in popularity?
Yes, the moissanite is growing in popularity owing to its competitive pricing, outstanding shine, durability, and eco-friendly nature. It is widely used in jewelry, especially engagement rings and wedding bands.
Why is Moissanite so popular?
Moissanite is a popular alternative to diamond and is widely loved because of its brilliant sparkle. It is also sought-after for its durability and competitive pricing, making it an excellent choice for various types of jewelry, including engagement rings.
Where was Moissanite discovered?
Moissanite was first discovered inside a meteor crater in Arizona back in 1893 by Henry Moissan.
How much does 1-carat Moissanite cost?
Depending on the quality grade and the brand, a 1-carat moissanite can cost anywhere between $200 to $600.
Are Moissanite and Lab Diamonds the same?
No, both are different stones. Moissanites have a 9.5 rating on the Mohs scale, are made from silicon carbide, and offer a more colorful rainbow-like reflection. On the other hand, lab grown diamonds have a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale, are made from carbon, and exude a colorless sparkle.
