
Moissanite Vs. Diamond: Which One Is Right for You?
You’ve probably heard people debating moissanite vs. diamond while shopping for an engagement ring or a special piece of jewelry. It’s a great question, and one worth taking the time to understand. Both stones are beautiful, durable, and timeless, but they do have some important differences.
At Miro Jewelers, we’ve helped many clients who walked in certain they wanted a diamond only to pause after seeing moissanite sparkle in person. So let’s talk it through, no confusing jargon, just honest, straightforward insight to help you decide what feels right for you.
Table of contents
Moissanite: A Quick Overview
Moissanite has a pretty fascinating origin story. It was first discovered in a meteor crater in the late 1800s. Since natural moissanite is extremely rare, nearly all moissanite used in jewelry today is lab-grown. That means consistent quality, incredible beauty, and no mining impact.
Here’s the honest truth: moissanite can look very similar to a diamond. Most people can’t tell the difference at a glance. What really sets it apart is its sparkle—moissanite reflects more rainbow-like flashes of light than a diamond. If you love bold brilliance and extra fire, moissanite might steal your heart.
Diamond: The Timeless Classic
Diamonds have always held a special place in fine jewelry. They symbolize love, commitment, and lasting connection. Formed deep within the earth under extreme heat and pressure, each diamond carries a story millions (or billions) of years in the making.
We’ve seen it time and time again at Miro Jewelers—that moment when someone tries on a diamond ring and can’t stop smiling at their reflection. Diamonds are romantic. They’re classic. And for many people, they remain the gold standard for life’s biggest moments, like engagements and anniversaries.
Moissanite vs. Diamond: Key Differences
At first glance, moissanite and diamonds can look very similar. But under the light—and with a closer look—you’ll notice some differences.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Brilliance: Moissanite gives off more rainbow sparkle and fire. Diamonds shine with a brighter, whiter light.
Hardness: Diamonds rank a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite is close behind at 9.25.
Price: Moissanite costs a fraction of what a diamond does, even at larger sizes.
Color & Clarity: Diamonds come in a wide range of grades. Moissanite is typically colorless or near-colorless.
Neither stone is “better.” It really comes down to what matters most to you—tradition, sparkle, value, or symbolism.
Why Choose Moissanite?
Moissanite has become incredibly popular, especially among couples looking for beauty without compromise. Here’s why many of our clients love it:
Affordable luxury: Get a larger-looking stone at a lower price.
Eco-friendly: Lab-created with no mining impact.
Durable: Built to last with excellent hardness.
Long-lasting sparkle: It won’t cloud or dull over time.
Have you ever seen a ring and immediately asked, “Wow—what stone is that?” That’s often moissanite. It definitely turns heads.
Why Choose a Diamond?
Diamonds offer an emotional and symbolic appeal that’s hard to replace. They’ve been treasured for generations, and their legacy speaks for itself.
Here’s why diamonds remain a favorite:
Timeless value: Diamonds hold their significance over time.
Tradition: A classic choice for engagement rings.
Elegant brilliance: Their white sparkle is refined and iconic.
Variety: Endless options in cut, color, and clarity.
We’ve seen diamond rings passed down through families that still look stunning decades later. That kind of staying power says a lot.
How Is Moissanite Made?
Moissanite is grown in a lab using silicon carbide and intense heat conditions similar to how it was originally discovered in nature. Because it’s lab-grown, moissanite has consistent clarity and brilliance, without the inclusions often found in mined stones. It’s a beautiful blend of science and craftsmanship.
Is Moissanite a Real Diamond?
Moissanite is not a diamond, but it is a real gemstone with its own unique qualities. Diamonds are made of carbon, while moissanite is made of silicon carbide. Their different compositions cause them to reflect light differently, which is why their sparkle isn’t exactly the same. Moissanite isn’t a fake; it’s simply its own stunning gem.
How Is Moissanite Graded?
Moissanite is graded based on cut, color, and clarity. Since it’s lab-created, most moissanite stones are colorless or near-colorless. Cut matters most. A well-cut moissanite distributes light evenly, creating that signature fire and brilliance. At Miro Jewelers, we only offer moissanite stones that meet our high visual standards.
Caring for a Moissanite Ring
Moissanite is easy to care for. Clean it with mild soap, warm water, and a soft brush. Store it separately to avoid scratches and keep it away from harsh chemicals.
For everyday wear, we recommend a professional cleaning once or twice a year to keep it looking its best for decades.
Is Moissanite Worth It?
Absolutely. Moissanite offers incredible beauty, durability, and value. Many of our clients choose it so they can invest more in the setting, band, or even their wedding without giving up sparkle. If you want something bright, long-lasting, and budget-friendly, moissanite is a fantastic choice.
Does Moissanite Lose Its Sparkle?
No. Moissanite keeps its brilliance over time. If it ever looks dull, it’s usually just dirty—one quick clean brings the sparkle right back. It’s also highly resistant to heat and light, making it a reliable everyday gemstone.
Can You Tell Moissanite and Diamond Apart?
To the naked eye, most people can’t tell the difference. Under bright light, moissanite’s rainbow sparkle may stand out more, while diamonds reflect whiter light. If you love extra fire, moissanite may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Where Can You Shop for Diamonds and Moissanite?
At Miro Jewelers, we offer a wide selection of diamond and moissanite jewelry in various shapes and styles, including round, oval, princess, and more. Choose from mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, or moissanite, all set in platinum, yellow gold, or rose gold. Our team is here to make the experience easy, relaxed, and personal.
Final Thoughts: Diamond or Moissanite?
So—which one wins? Honestly, there’s no wrong answer.
If you value tradition, legacy, and classic symbolism, a diamond may be perfect for you. If you love bold sparkle, sustainability, and value, moissanite could be your match.
Both are beautiful. Both are durable. And both can be deeply meaningful. The right choice is simply the one that feels right to you.
Have questions about moissanite vs. diamond? Call us at +1-303-393-8881 or email info@mirojewelers.com. Our knowledgeable team at Miro Jewelers is always happy to help.







