Moissanite vs. Diamond

Moissanite is a remarkable gemstone made of silicon carbide, often called the “gemstone from the stars.” It was first discovered in 1893 in a meteorite from Canyon Diablo, Arizona, by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Henri Moissan. Initially thought to be diamonds, Moissan confirmed in 1904 that the crystals were a distinct mineral, later named moissanite in his honor.

Naturally occurring moissanite is extremely rare. It wasn’t until 1958 that geologists found it in the Earth’s upper mantle near Wyoming.

Today, moissanite is exclusively lab-grown as a sustainable diamond alternative. Created under controlled conditions with advanced technology, lab-grown moissanite is fully traceable and environmentally friendly, avoiding the impact of traditional mining.

Valued for its brilliance, durability, and ethical production, moissanite has become a popular choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry, offering an elegant and sustainable option for modern jewelry lovers.

Telling a moissanite from a diamond can be tricky for the untrained eye. A simple method is to compare two similarly sized stones side by side—one moissanite and one diamond—to observe the differences.

Diamonds have a unique sparkle created by reflected light, color refraction, and scintillation. Moissanites also reflect light and refract colors but display more than twice the “fire” of diamonds, producing intense rainbow flashes. This effect is most noticeable in larger stones and can give moissanite a vivid, disco-ball–like brilliance, making it a quick visual clue.

For definitive identification, consult a professional jeweler. Using a loupe, they can examine the stone’s facet junctions to confirm whether it is moissanite or diamond.