Summary
No, lab-grown diamonds are not the same as moissanite. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds, created using advanced technology to mimic the earth’s natural process. Moissanite, on the other hand, is a distinct gemstone made of silicon carbide with different optical and physical properties. While both are affordable and beautiful diamond alternatives, they are not the same stone.
Shoppers often compare lab-grown diamonds and moissanite because both are ethical, affordable, and visually brilliant. However, they differ in composition, durability, and appearance.
Below, we’ll break down the key differences between the two so you can make an informed decision when choosing your gemstone.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in controlled laboratory environments.
They share the same chemical composition, hardness, and sparkle as natural diamonds, making them virtually indistinguishable without specialized equipment. Lab-grown diamonds are graded by the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight) and are available in a wide range of qualities.
Key features of lab-grown diamonds:
- Composition: Pure carbon, identical to natural diamonds.
- Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale, the hardest material known.
- Appearance: Brilliance and fire equal to natural diamonds.
How Moissanite Differs from Lab-Grown Diamonds
Moissanite is a separate gemstone with its own unique qualities.
Discovered in a meteor crater in 1893, moissanite is made of silicon carbide and is now lab-created for jewelry use. It is slightly less hard than diamond but still extremely durable, with a brilliance that is often more fiery and rainbow-like than a diamond’s.
| Feature | Lab-Grown Diamond | Moissanite |
| Composition | Carbon (same as natural diamond) | Silicon carbide |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 9.25 |
| Appearance | White brilliance and fire | More rainbow-like sparkle |
| Price | Higher than moissanite | More affordable |
| Grading | Evaluated by 4Cs | Not graded on 4Cs |
Not sure whether to choose a lab-grown diamond or moissanite? Contact The Diamond Reserve to compare options and find the perfect stone for your engagement ring or jewelry piece.
FAQs
1. Do lab-grown diamonds test as real diamonds?
Yes, they have the same properties as natural diamonds and test as such.
2. Does moissanite sparkle more than diamond?
Moissanite has a higher refractive index, producing more colorful, rainbow-like flashes.
3. Is moissanite less durable than diamond?
Slightly, but with a 9.25 Mohs rating, it is still extremely durable for everyday wear.
4. Are lab-grown diamonds more expensive than moissanite?
Yes, but they are still more affordable than natural diamonds.
5. Can jewelers tell the difference between moissanite and lab-grown diamonds?
Yes, with magnification and testing tools, jewelers can distinguish between the two.
Interested in lab-grown diamond jewelry or designing your engagement ring? Call us at 303-385-8449 or schedule a virtual or in-person appointment online to learn more.
