Moissanites vs Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Mined Diamonds
Why choose lab-grown diamonds or moissanites? Learn the difference in appearance, durability, price, chemical properties, and source so you can make an informed decision.
Kind, not mined.™
Stuck between moissanite, lab-grown diamonds, and mined diamonds? Unsure which one's for you? The table below simplifies the key differences in appearance, durability, price and more to help you pick your perfect gem. You'll discover luxury jewellery is available at a fraction of the cost, and without the environmental impact.
Understanding the Difference
Why choosing moissanites or lab-grown diamonds is the no-brainer choice.
| Diamond Element Properties | Moissanite | Lab Grown Diamond | Mined Diamond |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time to create | Depending on the size can take 8-12 weeks to form | Depending on the size can take 4-10 weeks to form | Millions of years to form deep within the earth |
| Method | Created in a lab using a combination of high-purity silicon with carbon and heating the mixture at high temperatures the process is closely monitored to ensure the desired size | A small diamond seed is subjected to high pressure and temperature causing it to crystallise into a diamond which continues to grow | Diamonds are mined from the earth via giant open-pit or underground mines |
| Process | quality and characteristics of the moissanite | The process is closely monitored to ensure the desired size quality and characteristics of the diamond | Unsustainable and environmentally destructive consequences from mining |
| Conditions | Well controlled conditions FAR less impact on the environment | Well controlled conditions FAR less impact on the environment | Industry reputation for unethical labour practices |
| Composition | Silicon carbide | Carbon | Carbon |
| Hardness | 9.25-9.50 on Mohs scale | 10 on Mohs scale | 10 on Mohs scale |
| Fire (Colourful flashes of light) | 0.104 | 0.044 | 0.044 |
| Refractive Index | 2.65-2.96 | 2.417 - 2.419 | 2.417 - 2.419 |
| Price Results | Results in very affordable & sustainable diamond alternatives | Results in affordable & sustainable diamonds | Results in expensive & unsustainable diamonds |
| Buy now | Buy now |
Diamonds, Without the Traditional Cost
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, with the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.
They offer the same brilliance, sparkle, and durability, but with a more accessible price and a lighter impact on the planet.
What is a Moissanite?
Moissanite is a beautiful gemstone known for its incredible sparkle and fire.
It is not a diamond, but it is a durable, brilliant, and more affordable alternative. Most moissanite used in jewellery today is lab-created, making it a popular choice for those who want maximum sparkle with a conscious approach.
What is a Lab Grown Diamond?
A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond created in a laboratory rather than mined from the earth. It has the same appearance, structure, and sparkle as a mined diamond, but is generally more affordable and conflict-free. For many customers, it is the smarter way to enjoy a diamond without compromising on beauty.
What is a Mined Diamond?
A mined diamond is formed naturally deep within the earth and extracted through mining. While beautiful, mined diamonds can come with a much higher price and greater environmental and ethical concerns. This is why many modern couples are choosing lab-grown diamonds as a more responsible alternative.
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Frequently Asked Questions