Diamonds are a girl’s best friend. They are forever. They shine bright. They are with Lucy in the sky. Their influence on modern and historical culture cannot be understated. And yet, there is a naturally occurring copycat out there that is likely to be on just as many fingers – a moissanite.
There’s a good chance you have never even heard of a moissanite. A moissanite is a mineral that originally was naturally occurring called silicone carbide, which looks, in a lot of ways, like a diamond. They are extremely rare when naturally coming to the world, but they can be easily made in a lab, which means they’re out there in abundance.
So, which one is better, and which one should you go for when you are choosing your engagement ring? We’re breaking it down here.
Durability
Diamonds are known for their durability, because they are the hardest mineral, which is why they found their way onto a ring that is meant to be worn every single day: the engagement ring.
However, a moissanite isn’t far behind on the scale of durable minerals. In fact, it’s only the second hardest mineral. It’s almost as hard as diamonds and won’t scratch easily if you have a very hands-on lifestyle.
Price
The biggest perk moissanites have over diamonds is the price. By eliminating the “naturally occurring” and “rarity” aspects of diamonds, moissanites come out at far more affordable prices. It can come out at around one 10th of the price of a diamond that is the same in size and quality.
This ultimately means that you can have a much bigger, much clearer, and overall, more beautiful diamond for the same price as a tiny, unclear diamond. You can see for yourself the price range of a catalogue of beautiful moissanite engagement rings at bestbrilliance.com/collections/moissanite-rings.
But it is comparable to the idea of designer labels, or even NFTs: you’re paying for the real thing.
Brilliance and colour
How you can tell the difference between a diamond and moissanite is in the reflection of the light against the gem. No one is about to notice unless they whip out a magnifier at the girls’ brunch, but the light hitting a moissanite will give a rainbow effect, where a diamond will shine white.
However, it’s worth noting that a moissanite will have a better brilliance than a diamond overall, which means it will sparkle more.
Which one should you go for?
Well, that all depends on your budget, or priorities. There is a noticeable shift in material goods as a priority. Weddings are smaller, held later in life, people are thriftier, and spending your money on something that lasts or an experience is taking priority, while sheer appearance is taking a back seat.
This is where the idea of a moissanite really shines. It is a very durable option, a very affordable option, and a very practical option.
However, diamonds are a girl’s best friend for a reason, and to some people, the sheer brilliance of a diamond simply cannot be competed with.
It all depends on where your priorities are. If you want something that will last for less, go with a moissanite, but if you want something valuable to pass on to your loved ones, go with a diamond.
