When it comes to choosing the right diamond, you are faced with endless options, Two of the most popular and widely discussed options today are lab-grown diamonds and moissanite. Both options have captured the attention of buyers looking for stunning, sustainable, and wallet-friendly choices. Whether you are searching for the ultimate engagement ring or a sparkling everyday piece, which one truly shines for you? This guide will clear the confusion and help you make a confident and informed choice.
In this blog, we break down their differences, weigh the pros and cons, and help you choose the perfect gem for your style and budget.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are created in high-tech laboratories that replicate the natural diamond formation process. Just like mined diamonds, they have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties. You cannot tell the difference between the two through the naked eye.
Lab-created diamonds emerged in the 1950s as a technological breakthrough, initially used in industrial applications. It wasn’t until the 21st century that these diamonds became popular in jewellery.
Lab-created diamonds are produced using two primary methods:
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High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT): The HPHT method replicates the extreme conditions of the Earth’s mantle. A diamond seed is placed in a press with carbon and exposed to immense pressure (1.5 million psi) and high temperatures (1,500°C), causing carbon atoms to crystallise around the seed, forming a lab grown diamond. However, diamonds created through this method can sometimes contain more metallic impurities, owing to its origin process.
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Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In the CVD method, a diamond seed is placed in a plasma chamber, where a carbon-rich gas is heated to break apart the carbon molecules. The carbon atoms then deposit onto the seed, gradually growing a diamond crystal layer by layer. Unlike mined diamonds, these diamonds have minimum to no impurities, hence, providing a much better quality and sparkle.
Recommended read: CVD vs. HPHT: Which Lab Grown Diamond Method Is Best?
What is Moissanite?
Inspite the misunderstandings surrounding moissanites, they cannot be considered as diamonds. They are two distinct gemstones with different compositions, properties, and origins.Moissanite was discovered in a meteorite crater by Nobel Prize-winning scientist Henri Moissan in 1893. Due to its rarity, all moissanite sold today is lab-created using advanced thermal processes.
While it resembles a diamond in appearance, it’s composed of silicon carbide, giving it unique properties like higher brilliance and fire (the rainbow-like flashes of light seen when the stone is exposed to light). A moissanite ring in bright sunlight will dazzle with vibrant rainbow colours, making it a popular choice for bold, modern jewellery styles.
Moissanites are produced using two primary methods:
Moissanite is typically created using the High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) process or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), similar to lab-grown diamonds. However, the raw material used is silicon carbide (SiC) instead of carbon.
In the HPHT method, the silicon carbide crystals are grown under high pressure and temperature. Carbon and silicon are vaporised and crystallised in the CVD method into silicon carbide, forming moissanite crystals.
Key Differences Between Lab-Grown Diamonds and Moissanite
Both lab-grown diamonds and moissanite are excellent choices for ethical jewellery, but they differ in composition, brilliance, hardness, and price:
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Feature |
Lab-Grown Diamonds |
Moissanite |
|
Composition |
Made of pure carbon, identical to mined diamonds. |
Composed of silicon carbide, a completely different material. |
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Creation Time |
Takes longer as it involves growing a single crystal of diamond. |
Faster to produce due to different structure and formation requirements. |
|
Brilliance and Fire |
Emits a natural, white light brilliance. |
Has a more colourful sparkle due to its higher refractive index. Exhibits flashing rainbow hues in certain lighting. |
|
Hardness |
Ranks 10 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest and most scratch-resistant substance on Earth. |
Ranks 9.25, still very durable but slightly less hard than a diamond. |
|
Refractive Index |
Around 2.42, like natural diamonds, contributes to a bright white sparkle. |
Ranges from 2.65 to 2.69, creating a more vibrant, colourful sparkle. The overall shine isn’t as refined if you’re looking to own it as a diamond replacement. |
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Price |
Offers greater value for money. They cost 80% less compared to mined diamonds but more expensive than moissanite. |
Most budget-friendly, offering a diamond-like appearance at a lower cost. |
Both gemstones require minimal maintenance and can be kept sparkling with regular cleaning using a soft brush and mild detergent. However, lab-grown diamonds offer the added benefit of a genuine, lasting legacy due to its aunthenticity.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a lab-grown diamond for its classic elegance or moissanite for its bold brilliance, it is important to consider the quality and long-term value of your choice. Explore your options and select the gemstone that aligns with your values and style.
FAQs
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Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, labgrown diamonds have the same chemical composition, physical and optical properties as mined diamonds. To the naked eye, they are absolutely identical.
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Does moissanite sparkle more than diamonds?
Moissanite has a higher refractive index, creating a more colourful and fiery sparkle than diamonds.However, this vibrant display of light can sometimes appear too intense or unnatural.
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Which is more affordable: lab-grown diamonds or moissanite?
Moissanite is significantly more affordable, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious shoppers. Conversely, lab grown diamonds provide exceptional value for money, ensuring better quality, lasting beauty and sustainability. In the long run, the authenticity and timeless appeal of a lab-grown diamond make it a smart investment that surpasses other alternatives like moissanite.