Lab grown diamonds and moissanite are two of the most popular choices for engagement rings and fine jewelry. Both are beautiful, durable and responsibly created, but they differ in sparkle, price and composition. This guide helps you decide which stone is right for you.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Lab Grown Diamond | Moissanite | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Carbon (a real diamond) | Silicon carbide |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 9.25 |
| Refractive index | 2.42 | 2.65 to 2.69 |
| Fire (dispersion) | 0.044 | 0.104 |
| Sparkle | Classic white brilliance | Extra colorful, rainbow fire |
| Price | Higher | Lower |
| Jynora certificate | IGI certificate over 1 carat | GRA certificate over 1 carat |
Sparkle and Appearance
Lab grown diamonds show a balance of white light (brilliance) and colorful flashes (fire), the classic diamond look. Moissanite has more than twice the fire of a diamond, giving it vivid rainbow flashes that stand out in sunlight. Choose diamond for timeless sparkle, or moissanite if you love maximum color and fire.
Durability
Both stones are excellent for everyday wear. Diamond is the hardest material on earth at 10 on the Mohs scale, and moissanite is close behind at 9.25.
Price and Value
Moissanite costs less than lab grown diamond at the same size, making it ideal if you want a large stone on a budget. Lab grown diamond costs more than moissanite but much less than a mined diamond.
Certification
At Jynora, lab grown diamonds over 1 carat come with an IGI certificate, and moissanite over 1 carat comes with a GRA certificate, so whichever stone you choose, you know exactly what you are getting.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose a lab grown diamond if you want a real diamond with classic sparkle and an IGI grading report.
- Choose moissanite if you want the most sparkle and the biggest look for your budget.
Every Jynora design is available in both stones, made to order in solid gold with free worldwide shipping and a lifetime warranty.
Lab Grown Diamond vs Moissanite FAQs
Can people tell the difference between moissanite and diamond?
Most people cannot by eye. In bright light, moissanite's colorful fire can be more noticeable, especially in larger stones.
Which lasts longer, moissanite or lab grown diamond?
Both last a lifetime with normal care. Diamond is slightly harder, but both are highly resistant to scratches.
Is moissanite a fake diamond?
No. Moissanite is a gemstone in its own right, not a diamond imitation. It is sold honestly as moissanite.
Do both stones come with certificates?
Yes. Lab grown diamonds over 1 carat include an IGI certificate, and moissanite over 1 carat includes a GRA certificate.
Which is better for an engagement ring?
Both are excellent. Choose lab grown diamond for a real diamond, or moissanite for more sparkle at a lower price.