Can You Tell a Moissanite from a Diamond?

Can You Tell a Moissanite from a Diamond? https://www.moimoi.com.au/engagement-rings/lab-grown-diamond/melbourne-victoria/

The question of whether you can tell a moissanite from a diamond is one that many jewellery buyers ask. At first glance, the two stones appear almost identical. Both are colourless, brilliant, and designed to reflect light beautifully. Without professional tools or training, most people cannot distinguish between them simply by looking.

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that was originally discovered in a meteor crater. Today, it is engineered to closely resemble a diamond in clarity and sparkle. Diamonds, whether mined or lab-grown, are made of carbon and are known for their classic brilliance and timeless appeal. Although their chemical structures differ, their outward appearance can be very similar.

One noticeable difference is the type of sparkle each stone produces. Moissanite has a higher dispersion rate, meaning it reflects more colourful flashes of light. In bright lighting, this can create a strong rainbow effect. Diamonds tend to reflect more white light, producing a crisp and classic brilliance. Some people prefer the extra fire of moissanite, while others appreciate the traditional sparkle of a diamond.

Durability is another important factor. Diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them extremely resistant to scratching. Moissanite ranks slightly lower at 9.25, which still makes it one of the hardest gemstones available. In everyday use, both stones are highly durable and suitable for engagement rings or daily wear jewellery.

Professional jewellers use advanced tools to identify the difference between the two. Standard diamond testers often measure heat conductivity. Since moissanite conducts heat similarly to diamond, it can sometimes register as a diamond on basic testers. More advanced equipment measures electrical conductivity, which helps professionals accurately determine whether a stone is moissanite or diamond.

Under magnification, moissanite may show double refraction. This optical effect causes a slight doubling of facet lines when viewed at certain angles. Diamonds do not display this feature. However, this difference is subtle and requires magnification to observe. To the naked eye, this distinction is nearly impossible to see.

Another small difference is density. Moissanite is slightly lighter than diamond, so stones of identical size may have a minimal weight difference. However, this difference is so small that it is not noticeable without precise scales and measurement tools.

Price often plays a major role in the decision-making process. Moissanite is generally more affordable than diamond, making it an attractive option for those who want a large, brilliant stone at a lower cost. Many buyers choose moissanite for its value, durability, and ethical lab-created origin.

In the end, telling a moissanite from a diamond without professional assistance is very difficult. Both gemstones are beautiful and long-lasting. The choice between them depends on personal preference, budget, and what qualities matter most to the buyer.