As alternative gemstones are popular, many Australians are now comparing traditional natural diamonds with moissanite. While both gems showcase remarkable brilliance and beauty, key differences exist in their properties, value, and long-term investment potential. Here’s an in-depth look at everything you need to know to make an informed and confident choice.
What is Moissanite?
Natural moissanite is extremely rare and was first discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan in a meteor crater. Today, nearly all moissanite is lab-created from silicon carbide crystals. While it shares similar optical properties with diamonds, such as brilliance and sparkle, moissanite differs in chemical composition and overall value.
Price Comparison
The most noticeable difference between moissanite and natural diamonds is their cost. Moissanite is a much more affordable option, typically priced at around 10% of what you would pay for a natural diamond of the same size.Â
For example, a one-carat moissanite gemstone might be priced between $600 and $900. A one-carat natural diamond could range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on its quality (including factors like cut, clarity, and colour).
This significant price difference is due to the rarity and sourcing of the stones. Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years deep within the Earth, and the mining process is labour-intensive and costly. In contrast, moissanite is lab-created, meaning it can be produced more efficiently and in greater quantities.
Quality and Durability
Diamonds are the hardest known natural material, ranking 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, while moissanite ranks 9.25. Though the difference may seem small, it notably impacts everyday wear.Â
Natural diamonds are nearly impossible to scratch, making them more damage-resistant and better at maintaining their polish over time. Moissanite, while still very hard and durable, is slightly more susceptible to minor scratches, making diamonds the superior choice for those seeking maximum durability in long-term wear.
Visual Differences
While both stones sparkle beautifully, they do so differently:
- Brilliance: Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, creating more rainbow-like flashes (dispersion). Some find this extra sparkle appealing, while others prefer diamonds’ more subtle white light return.
- Colour: High-quality diamonds appear colourless or near-colourless. Moissanite often displays a slight yellow or greyish tint under certain lighting conditions, though recent advances have improved their colour consistency.
- Cut Quality: Diamond cutting is a refined art that has undergone centuries of development. Moissanite is typically cut to maximise its unique optical properties, which can result in a different type of sparkle pattern.
Long-term Value
Natural diamonds have historically maintained value over time, particularly for high-quality stones. They’re finite resources that become rarer as mining becomes more challenging. Moissanite, being lab-created, holds resale value differently, though its initial affordability makes this less of a concern for some buyers.
Real-World Performance: What to Expect
The day-to-day experience of wearing moissanite versus diamond deserves careful consideration. Let’s explore how these stones perform in real-world situations that often need to be discussed in basic comparisons.
Maintenance and Care
While both stones are durable, they have different maintenance needs. Natural diamonds typically require less frequent cleaning as they don’t accumulate oils and residue as readily as moissanite. This is due to diamonds’ superior hardness and natural resistance to environmental factors.
A diamond’s crystal structure also maintains its sparkle longer when cleaned. Moissanite may need more frequent cleaning to maintain its optimal brilliance, particularly in settings exposed to soaps, lotions, and daily wear.
Size Considerations
One often overlooked aspect is how these stones appear in different sizes. While moissanite’s increased brilliance can be beautiful in smaller stones, larger moissanite (over 2 carats) can sometimes seem too flashy for traditional tastes. Natural diamonds, particularly those with excellent cut grades, maintain their sophisticated appearance regardless of size.
Photography and Special Occasions
An interesting practical consideration is how these stones are photographed. Natural diamonds typically photograph true to life, making them excellent for engagement announcements and wedding photos. Moissanite’s higher dispersion can sometimes create unexpected rainbow effects in photos, particularly with flash photography.
Professional Settings
For those working in conservative professional environments, the subtle elegance of a natural diamond often aligns well with workplace expectations. While moissanite is beautiful, its more dramatic fire can sometimes appear more conspicuous in formal settings.
Climate Considerations
Both stones perform differently in Australia’s bright sunlight. Natural diamonds consistently appear across lighting conditions, while moissanite can show more noticeable colour variations under intense sunlight. This is particularly relevant for outdoor workers or those spending significant time in natural light.
Future Modifications
An advantage of natural diamonds is their ability to be recut or resized if needed. Over generations, many families have redesigned their diamond jewellery to suit changing tastes while maintaining the stone’s value. This flexibility for future modifications adds another dimension to the long-term value proposition of natural diamonds.
Expert Tip: When comparing stones in person, ask to view them under different lighting conditions – natural daylight, indoor lighting, and even smartphone torches can reveal how the stones perform in various real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience often helps clarify preferences more than any technical specification could.
Making Your Choice
Consider these factors when deciding:
- Budget: If maximising the size of your budget is the priority, moissanite offers significant advantages.
- Longevity: Natural diamonds are durable, making them ideal for everyday wear, especially in pieces like engagement rings.
- Investment: Natural diamonds typically retain value better over time.
- Aesthetics: Some prefer the subtle elegance of diamonds, while others love moissanite’s dramatic sparkle.
- Personal Values: Consider what matters most – traditional values, modern alternatives, or environmental impact.
For Us, Diamonds Are Forever
Australia is uniquely connected to natural diamonds through its mining heritage and the famous Argyle mine. While moissanite offers an accessible alternative, natural diamonds remain deeply embedded in our jewellery tradition and culture.
Ready to explore your options? Visit us online or in-store to view our extensive collection of natural diamond engagement rings. Our expert team can guide you through the selection process, helping you find the perfect stone that matches your style and budget. With four generations of experience, we ensure every customer makes an informed choice they’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Need more information or other advice? Please contact us.
