Moissanite vs. Lab Grown Diamonds
Examine the differences between moissanite and lab grown diamond to learn how to select the gemstone that is right for you.
What is Moissanite
Moissanite is created in a laboratory and is made up of silica and carbon. Natural moissanite particles have been synthesised to produce a pure and scintillating gemstone.
What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are the same as a mined diamond however they are made in a laboratory. There is no chemical difference between a lab grown diamond and a mined diamond: they are both crystal clear carbon.
Both moissanite and lab grown diamond are grown in controlled environments using advanced technology, therefore no mining is needed to produce them, resulting in traceable and ethical origins.
| Moissanite | Lab Grown Diamonds | |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Moissanite gemstones are a 9.2 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, making them one of the hardest minerals on earth. | Lab grown diamonds are the hardest known mineral and sit at a 10/10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. |
| Brilliance | Moissanite display a different kind of brilliance than diamonds, as their internal facets are different. The fiery rainbow emitted by moissanite are dazzling, however sometimes moissanite’s heightened brilliance can create a ‘discoball’ effect, especially in sunlight. | Lab grown diamonds reflect light in 3 different ways. The white light eflected back from deep within the stone is called brilliance, while the rainbow of colours refracted through the diamond is referred to as ispersion. The surface sparkle of a diamond is known as scintillation. |
| Colour | At Cullen Jewellery all our moissanite stones are graded for colour by falling in to one of 3 grading categories. Yellow tinted: J-K | Lab grown diamonds have a more spicific grading system than moissanite, with each individual stone given a specific colour grading. |
| Price | Moissanite is significantly more affordable than a lab grown diamond of the same size. Moissanite gems typically vary on price based on grading. | Lab grown diamond prices vary greatly based on shape, carat, cut, colour and clarity. Lab created diamonds are more affordable than mined diamonds. |
| Sourcing | Moissanite are an appealing option for those seeking an eco-conscious gem stone as they are lab created. | We go above and beyond to offer laboratory formed diamonds that are ethically grown and selected for their environmentally conscious origins. |
Universal Benefits
Sustainable
Value
Durable
We recommend that you ask to try on your prefferred ring style with both a moissanite and lab diamond centre stone during your appointment. Additionally, seeing different cuts, clarities and colours in person will help you become familiar with all the options that are available to you. This way you can be more informed and feel confident in your decision.
Lab Grown Diamond FAQs
Yes! Lab grown diamonds, also known as laboratory grown diamonds or ethical lab grown diamonds, are chemically identical to mined diamonds or natural diamonds. They offer the same level of beauty and are an extremely popular choice.
A lab grown diamond, unlike a simulant, has the same chemical and physical properties as a mined diamond. They are aesthetically identical to naturally mined diamonds, offering the same fire and brilliance.
The only difference between a mined diamond and a lab grown diamond is their origin. Lab grown diamonds are an ethical and sustainable option, offering the same fire, clarity, and carat weights as mined diamonds.
Lab grown diamonds are a sustainable option, created using advanced technology under high pressure, which is much more ethical than traditional diamond mining methods.
We specialise in lab grown diamond engagement rings. Our collection, available to shop online, ranges in carat weight and design, ensuring you find the perfect diamond for your needs.
Moissanite FAQs
Moissanite is a brilliant choice for those seeking an alternative to a lab diamond engagement ring. It offers the same level of clarity and is graded by Australia-based Radiant Beauty to ensure top quality, just like our lab grown diamond collections. Read more
Yes. Due to its similar properties to diamonds (both lab grown and mined or natural diamond rings), moissanite can pass a diamond tester. However, our specialised equipment can distinguish between moissanite and diamonds, ensuring you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Moissanite is not a fake diamond but a gemstone that offers stunning lab grown beauty. It's perfect for those looking for the same level of sparkle and clarity found in diamonds, but at a more accessible price point. Read more
Absolutely not! Due to its diamond-like appearance, many people believe the misconception that moissanite is a fake diamond when it is in fact a high quality, beautiful gemstone in its own right. Moissanite is becoming an increasingly popular choice of stone in engagement rings due to its dazzling beauty, durability, ease of customisation and affordability. Read more
No, moissanite rings are crafted to exhibit a sparkle that, to the naked eye, is akin to that of diamonds. They offer timeless beauty and are an aesthetically identical choice for those who admire the appearance of mined diamonds. Read more
Moissanite retains its sparkle indefinitely, much like our lab grown and rings. Its clarity and carat weight remain intact, ensuring a lifetime of brilliance. Read More
We make it easy to find your ideal moissanite engagement ring. Request a free ring sizer to determine your correct ring size, and browse our wide selection of moissanite engagement rings on our website. To create a custom ring design, schedule an appointment with our expert team, providing your appointment details. Our specialists will assist you with the entire custom design process to ensure you get the perfect ring. A regular price at Cullen Jewellery offers better accessibility and exceptional value compared to other jewellers.