Introduction to Lab Created Diamonds, Diamonds, and Moissanites
When shopping for gemstones, diamonds, moissanites, and lab created diamonds are some of the most popular options available. While diamonds have long been a symbol of luxury and status, moissanites and lab created diamonds are newer alternatives that are gaining popularity for their beauty and affordability. Understanding the differences between diamond vs moissanites and lab created diamonds can help you make a well-informed decision, especially when considering your budget, the appearance of the gemstone, and its long-term value.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks of diamonds, moissanites, and lab created diamonds, so you can determine which one best suits your needs.
What Are Diamonds?
Diamonds are naturally occurring gemstones made of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. They are known for their unparalleled hardness, making them the hardest substance on Earth. Traditionally, diamonds have been the go-to choice for engagement rings, luxury jewelry, and special occasions because of their timeless appeal and long-lasting beauty.
The value of diamonds is determined by the Four Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. While natural diamonds have historically been more expensive due to their rarity, lab created diamonds offer a more affordable alternative with the same physical properties as natural diamonds, which brings us to the next point of comparison.
What Are Moissanites?
Moissanite is a gemstone made of silicon carbide, and although it was originally discovered in a meteor crater, modern moissanites are primarily created in laboratories. Moissanite has gained popularity due to its incredible sparkle and brilliance, which is even greater than that of natural diamonds.
The key difference between moissanites and diamonds lies in their chemical composition. While diamonds are pure carbon, moissanites are made from silicon carbide. Moissanite is slightly softer than diamonds but still ranks high on the hardness scale. Despite its superior brilliance, moissanite doesn’t carry the same status and prestige as diamonds, which is an important consideration when deciding between diamonds vs moissanites.
Lab Created Diamonds: The Best of Both Worlds
Lab created diamonds are synthetic diamonds made in controlled laboratory conditions, using high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods to mimic the natural diamond-forming process. These lab diamonds have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, which means they are as hard and durable as mined diamonds.
The primary difference between lab created diamonds and natural diamonds is the way they are produced. While lab diamonds are grown in a lab environment, they are identical to their natural counterparts in every other way. They are available at a fraction of the cost of natural diamonds, making them a popular choice for those who want the beauty and quality of a diamond without the high price tag.
Comparing the Appearance: Diamonds vs Moissanites vs Lab Created Diamonds
When it comes to appearance, diamonds, moissanites, and lab created diamonds are all stunning, but they do have notable differences. Diamonds are known for their classic, timeless elegance and their brilliance, which is influenced by the cut, color, and clarity of the stone. The way light reflects off a diamond gives it a beautiful sparkle, especially in well-cut stones.
Moissanite, on the other hand, has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which means it exhibits more sparkle and fire. The extra brilliance is due to its superior ability to bend light. While moissanites may appear more vibrant and fiery than diamonds, their brilliance can sometimes be perceived as a bit too intense for some, leading to a different aesthetic from the more subdued sparkle of diamonds.
Lab created diamonds have the same visual appeal as natural diamonds. They offer the same brilliance and sparkle, and they are indistinguishable from mined diamonds to the naked eye. Whether you choose a round brilliant, princess cut, or any other shape, lab created diamonds will shine just as brightly as their natural counterparts, making them an excellent alternative to expensive mined diamonds.
Durability and Hardness: Diamonds, Moissanites, and Lab Created Diamonds
One of the key factors that make diamonds so desirable is their unmatched hardness. With a ranking of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, diamonds are the hardest known substance on Earth. This hardness makes them incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, which is why diamonds are ideal for daily wear in rings and other jewelry.
Moissanite ranks at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it the second hardest gemstone, slightly softer than diamonds but still exceptionally durable and resistant to scratches. Although moissanites are highly durable, they are not as scratch-resistant as diamonds.
Lab created diamonds, like their natural counterparts, are also ranked 10 on the Mohs scale, making them just as durable and scratch-resistant as mined diamonds. The lab created diamonds will withstand the test of time and maintain their sparkle and integrity for years, making them a fantastic option for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
Cost Comparison: Diamonds, Moissanites, and Lab Created Diamonds
The price difference is one of the most significant factors that sets diamonds, moissanites, and lab created diamonds apart. Diamonds, particularly natural ones, can be extremely expensive due to their rarity and the cost of mining. Lab created diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds, as they do not require mining, and the cost of production is lower. However, lab created diamonds still maintain the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, which means they offer excellent value for the money.
Moissanites are generally much less expensive than both diamonds and lab created diamonds, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, their lower cost comes with a trade-off in terms of status and prestige, as they do not carry the same luxury cachet as diamonds.
Which One is Right for You?
When deciding between diamonds vs moissanites vs lab created diamonds, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. If you value rarity, status, and timeless beauty, a diamond (whether natural or lab created) may be the right choice for you. If you want a sparkling gemstone but are on a budget, moissanite may be the perfect alternative, offering exceptional brilliance at a fraction of the cost. Lab created diamonds offer the best of both worlds: the prestige and beauty of a diamond at a more affordable price.
Ultimately, the choice between diamonds, moissanites, and lab created diamonds depends on your personal preferences, budget, and what you prioritize in your gemstone.
Conclusion: Diamonds, Moissanites, and Lab Created Diamonds
In conclusion, whether you choose diamonds, moissanites, or lab created diamonds, each option has its unique characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks. Diamonds are the traditional choice, renowned for their hardness and timeless beauty. Moissanites offer incredible brilliance at a lower cost but lack the same prestige as diamonds. Lab created diamonds provide an ethical and cost-effective alternative, offering the same quality and beauty as natural diamonds at a fraction of the price. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences and priorities when it comes to choosing the perfect gemstone for your needs.
