Is moissanite a fake stone?

No. Moissanite is a real gemstone, composed of silicon carbide (SiC). It was discovered in 1893 by Henri Moissan in a meteorite crater. Jewellery-grade moissanite is synthesised in the laboratory, but it is a stone with its own optical and physical properties: a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale and greater brilliance than diamond (refractive index of 2.65 vs 2.42 for diamond).

Can you tell the difference between moissanite and diamond with the naked eye?

For most people without gemmological training, the difference is not noticeable to the naked eye. Detection instruments such as the diamond thermal tester can mistake moissanite for diamond. The most visible difference is the 'fire' (the dispersion of light into the colours of the spectrum): moissanite has more fire than diamond, which in some lighting conditions can look like a 'more rainbow-like' sparkle.

How much does a 1-carat moissanite cost?

A 1-carat equivalent moissanite (1ct DEW) usually costs between €400 and €800 depending on the cut and quality. Compared with an equivalent lab-grown diamond (€1,500–3,000) or a natural diamond (€3,000–8,000 or more), it is significantly more affordable. In finished BRAVORA rings, moissanite models start from €1,595.

Is a lab-grown diamond or a moissanite better?

It depends on your priorities. A lab-grown diamond has a chemical composition identical to a natural diamond (pure carbon), comes with IGI/GIA certification and carries the symbolic value of a diamond. Moissanite is more affordable, harder than most gems and more brilliant. If budget is a relevant factor and you do not need a diamond certificate, moissanite is an excellent option.

Does moissanite last forever in a ring?

Yes. With a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is extremely resistant to the scratches of everyday wear. Only diamond (hardness 10) and corundum (ruby/sapphire, hardness 9) are harder. A quality moissanite in a well-made solid gold ring lasts for decades without deteriorating.

Lab Diamond vs Moissanite

April 7, 2026

Choosing between a lab-grown diamond and a moissanite is an increasingly common question as these gems become better known and younger buyers leave behind the stigma once attached to created stones. Both are brilliant, durable and more affordable than a natural diamond, but there are key differences worth knowing. In this practical guide you will find a clear, honest comparison to help you make your decision with confidence.

Introduction: why the question arises

When you are looking for an engagement ring, what matters is not only the design but also the centre stone. The dilemma arises because both lab-grown diamonds and moissanite offer beauty, durability and more accessible prices than natural diamonds. Yet they are not the same: their origin, optical properties and social perception differ, and that may influence your choice.

What is a lab-grown diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond, created under controlled conditions that replicate the natural process. It has the same chemical composition and crystal structure as a natural diamond, so it offers identical brilliance, hardness and durability. It is certified by institutions such as GIA or IGI, which guarantees its authenticity.

What is moissanite?

Moissanite is a different mineral: silicon carbide, discovered in a meteorite at the end of the 19th century and now produced in the laboratory for fine jewellery. Although it is not a diamond, it has become a popular alternative thanks to its intense brilliance, accessible price and excellent durability (9.25 on the Mohs scale, compared with 10 for diamond). Its hardness surpasses almost every known gem except diamond.

Point-by-point comparison

Brilliance and fire

A diamond reflects light in a balanced way, with an elegant, timeless sparkle. Moissanite, on the other hand, has a higher refractive index: it produces more flashes of colour (known as “fire”), especially under direct light. For some, the effect is spectacular; for others, it can seem too intense.

Hardness and durability

Diamond, whether natural or lab-grown, reaches 10 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest stone in nature. Moissanite, at 9.25, remains extremely durable and well suited to everyday wear. Either way, both are gems that stand the test of time beautifully.

Price and accessibility

The price difference is considerable. A moissanite ring can cost up to 30% less than one with a lab-grown diamond of the same size. Lab-grown diamonds, while more expensive than moissanite, are still far more accessible than natural diamonds. This lets you choose a larger carat weight within the same budget.

Prestige and social perception

A diamond, even a lab-grown one, retains the historic prestige associated with the most valuable stone in jewellery. Moissanite, although well recognised, is still perceived as an alternative. The choice depends on how much weight you give to social symbolism versus aesthetics and budget.

Ethics and sustainability

Both moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are ethical and sustainable options, as they involve no intensive mining. Lab-grown diamonds consume energy in their creation, but with a lower environmental and social impact than mined diamonds. Both represent conscious decisions aligned with responsible values.

Which is better for an engagement ring?

There is no single answer. If you are looking for prestige and tradition, a lab-grown diamond is probably your choice. If you value intense brilliance, accessibility and sustainability, moissanite is unbeatable. What matters most is that the choice reflects your values and way of life as a couple. At BRAVORA, we work with both options so you can compare them in person or through renders before deciding.

Conclusion: deciding with confidence

The choice between a lab-grown diamond and moissanite should not be a source of doubt, but of empowerment. Once you understand their real differences in brilliance, hardness, price and symbolism, you can calmly choose the ring that will accompany your story. Whatever you choose, what matters is that it reflects your union and what it means to you.

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Frequently asked questions

Does moissanite look like a diamond?

Visually they are very similar, although moissanite shows more flashes of colour under certain lighting. Only a trained eye can easily tell them apart.

Does a lab-grown diamond lose more value than a natural one?

Yes. A natural diamond holds a higher resale value because of its rarity. A lab-grown diamond, by contrast, is seen more as an emotional investment than a financial one. Its resale value is very low.