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30.01.22
Moissanite Engagement Rings: What You Need to Know
The moissanite ring is having a moment. Yes, you heard us right. Moissanite is one of our favorite diamond alternatives. While this unique, naturally occuring stone has been around for a hot sec, it’s kind of entering a heyday and we’re not mad about it. Whether you’re interested in moissanite for the environment, the sparkle, or the savings, we’ll admit, this rock is a mystery to many. So here’s what you need to know to decide if a moissanite engagement ring are right for you.
What is a moissanite?
First discovered in 1893 when a meteorite came crashing down in Arizona carrying microscopic particles of silicone carbide, the moissanite you’ll find on the market today comes from science, not the sky. Today, moissanite is grown in a lab and considered a diamond simulant. That means moissanite rings are manufactured to replicate the look of a diamond. And they do a pretty good job of that. But they’ve got some pretty cool properties of their own, and are finally being seen as a legit jewelry option—not just a temporary fix.
Closest to nail: Diamond
Beneath: Moissanite
What is the difference between moissanite and lab grown diamond?
So, diamond simulants are made to replicate the look of natural diamonds—the sparkle, the brilliance, the beauty. But unlike lab grown diamonds—which are chemically, physically and optically the same as natural, mined diamonds—moissanite is actually a completely different gemstone. Will anyone be able to tell the difference between moissanite and diamond? Yes, it’s possible. It may even surprise you to learn that moissanite is even more sparkly than diamond. If you love sparkle and lots of rainbow flash, moissanite might just be your match.
Why should you get a moissanite ring?
Moissanite is nearly as hard as diamond, a 9.25 on the Mohs scale, which means a moissanite ring is incredibly durable and perfect for daily wear. It’s also way more affordable than diamonds of comparable shapes and sizes, like a tenth of the cost, even. And that sparkle. It’s refractive index is higher than diamond’s so yes, you’ll get even more rainbow flash, instead of the mostly white sparkle of a diamond. Moissanite, grown in a lab, is also more sustainable than a mined diamond.
Why you shouldn’t get a moissanite ring?
Moissanite rings aren’t diamonds. And they never will be. So if what you really want is a diamond but the price tag scares you off, we suggest looking for a lab grown diamond instead. These are still diamonds, but at a significant savings. We’re talking like, half the cost, folks. Today, lab grown diamonds have come a long way and there are spectacular options on the market to fulfil any diamond desire. Shape, size, color, clarity—take your pick.
Do moissanite engagement rings last?
The thing with moissanite rings, similar to lab created diamonds, is that they’ve come a long way in the last decade. So much so that you’ll see two very different classes available, most significantly when it comes to body color. Classic moissanite (the old school crew) will have yellowish-green tones, similar to a H-I color graded diamond. But newer colorless or near-colorless moissanite, like the ones from popular brand Charles and Colvard, will be closer to a colorless diamond. You’ll also want to make sure your moissanite is cut properly because from the side view it has a sort of double reflective quality, which will cause it to look like your facets are doubled up.
What is the size difference between moissanite and diamond?
One thing to be aware of while shopping for a moissanite ring is carat weight. Carat is a measure traditionally used for diamonds. Moissanite, as a raw material, is lighter weight than diamond and therefore will not be the same size for the same carat weight. In fact, it will be bigger! If you see moissanite listed with carat weights, check if it is the stone’s carat weight or its diamond equivalent weight. But we know that’s confusing. So using the stone’s measurements in millimeters will give you a good back up reference to know exactly what you’re getting.
What setting looks best for a moissanite engagement ring?
Before you go falling in love with any old ring setting for your moissanite center stone, it’s good to remember that most ring settings on the market, and matching wedding bands for that matter, are set with diamond side stones, not moissanite. This could mean your ring will have an inconsistent appearance, or that your engagement and wedding rings won’t match in sparkle or color, for instance. It’s best if you can match your center stone with side stones of similar color and sparkle so everything looks cohesive.
Is moissanite worth buying?
When buying a natural mined diamond, you’d usually be limited to what the cutters and dealers decide to put on the market. And this is typically dictated by what is popular (because that’s what they know they can sell). But what if you want a super specific stone shape or size? Well, moissanite is great for getting what you want. In fact, these lab created gems can be custom cut to fit nearly any desire. So dream to your heart’s content.
Moissanite Engagement Rings Still Your Thing?
Ready to find your perfect moissanite ring match? Check out our selection of thousands of gorgeous moissanite stones that you can pair with your setting of choice. Or start customizing your own ring with our design quiz and get a free sketch! Not finding what you’re looking for? Reach out to hello@shop.frankdarling.com with a quick note about your needs (and your budget) for help.
