Moissanite and diamond are two of the most popular gemstones used in jewelry today. While both stones are known for their brilliance and durability,
there are some key structural differences between the two. Understanding the differences between moissanite vs diamond can help you choose the right stone for your needs and preferences.
Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that was first discovered in a meteorite in 1893. It is composed of silicon carbide and has a similar chemical composition to diamond. However, moissanite has a different crystal structure than diamond.
Moissanite has a hexagonal crystal structure, while diamond has a cubic crystal structure. This difference in crystal structure is what gives moissanite its unique optical properties.
One of the main differences between moissanite vs diamond is their refractive index. Refractive index refers to the way that light bends as it passes through the stone. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, which means that it has more fire and brilliance. Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65-2.69, while diamond has a refractive index of 2.42. This means that moissanite will sparkle more than diamond in certain lighting conditions.
Another difference between moissanite vs diamond is their hardness. Hardness refers to a stone’s ability to resist scratches and abrasions. Diamond is the hardest natural substance on earth, with a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Moissanite is also very hard, with a rating of 9.25. This means that both stones are very durable and resistant to wear and tear.
However, the toughness of moissanite vs diamond is different. Toughness refers to a stone’s ability to resist cracking or chipping. While moissanite is harder than diamond, it is also more brittle. This means that it is more likely to chip or crack under extreme pressure. Diamond, on the other hand, is more resistant to chipping or cracking because of its cubic crystal structure.
Another important difference between moissanite vs diamond is their color. Diamond can come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, blue, pink, and green. The color of a diamond is determined by the presence of trace elements or structural defects in the crystal. Moissanite, on the other hand, is generally colorless or near-colorless. It may have a slight yellow or green tint in certain lighting conditions, but it does not come in a range of colors like diamond.
Finally, there is a difference in price between moissanite vs diamond. Moissanite is generally less expensive than diamond, making it a popular alternative for those who want the look of a diamond without the high price tag. However, the price of moissanite vs diamond can vary depending on the quality and size of the stone.
In conclusion, moissanite vs diamond have some key structural differences that set them apart from each other. Moissanite has a different crystal structure, higher refractive index, and lower toughness than diamond. Diamond, on the other hand, has a cubic crystal structure, lower refractive index, and higher toughness than moissanite. Both stones are very durable and resistant to wear and tear, but diamond is generally more expensive than moissanite.
Understanding the differences between moissanite vs diamond can help you choose the right stone for your needs and preferences, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative or a high-end luxury stone.