What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a gemstone composed of silicon carbide (SiC). It was first discovered in 1893 by French chemist Dr. Henri Moissan while examining a meteor crater in Arizona, where he found tiny crystals of silicon carbide.

At the time, Moissan initially believed these crystals were diamonds. It was not until 1904 that he confirmed they were in fact silicon carbide. The mineral was later named “moissanite” in his honor.

In nature, moissanite is extremely rare and typically appears only as microscopic grains within certain meteorites and rocks. It was not until 1958 that geologists discovered moissanite in the Earth’s upper mantle near Wyoming, marking the first known occurrence of moissanite outside of meteorites.

Today, nearly all gemstone-grade moissanite is laboratory grown. All moissanite used in jewelry is synthetic, as natural moissanite is far too rare for commercial use. Its commercial production became feasible in the late 1990s, when several companies obtained patents for growing large, transparent silicon carbide crystals suitable for gemstones.

According to the Wikipedia page on moissanite, laboratory-grown moissanite retains the same chemical composition and crystal structure as its natural counterpart. Moissanite crystals are exceptionally hard—nearly comparable to diamond—and possess high thermal conductivity. These properties initially made silicon carbide valuable as an industrial material, but they also give moissanite outstanding brilliance and durability as a gemstone. Thanks to modern synthesis techniques, moissanite is now widely available in diamond-like cuts at a much lower price. It is clearly positioned as an affordable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds.

Is Moissanite a Diamond?

Moissanite is not a diamond. Although they may appear similar, they are fundamentally different gemstones:

• Diamond: A gemstone composed of carbon, either mined from the earth or laboratory grown
• Moissanite: A laboratory-grown gemstone composed of silicon carbide (SiC)

To make this distinction clearer, we collected data on moissanite and diamond from Wikipedia and the GIA. The table below compares gemstone-grade moissanite and diamond using typical clear, colorless samples, helping you easily understand the differences between them.

Each material offers a different balance of characteristics. Diamond is the hardest gemstone and remains the traditional standard, but it is expensive and often mined. Moissanite is slightly less hard, yet still extremely durable, with stronger fire and a price that represents only a fraction of that of diamond.

If you would like to explore further comparisons between moissanite and other gemstones, you can read our article: “Moissanite vs Diamond”.

What Are the Advantages of Moissanite Over Diamond?

Affordability

Moissanite typically costs only a small fraction of the price of a comparable diamond. Because it is laboratory grown, it avoids the high costs associated with diamond mining and distribution. With the same budget, buyers can choose a larger stone or higher overall quality. In practice, moissanite rings are often priced 10 to 20 times lower than comparable diamond rings, especially when compared with mined diamonds.

Fire and Brilliance

In some optical aspects, moissanite even surpasses diamond. It has a higher refractive index and greater dispersion, allowing it to bend and split light more strongly. The result is vivid rainbow-like flashes and exceptional overall brilliance. As noted by the Gemological Institute of America, synthetic moissanite “comes closer to diamond in overall appearance than any previous diamond simulant.” In everyday wear, moissanite sparkles similarly to high-quality diamonds and may even appear more brilliant under strong lighting.

Durability

On the Mohs hardness scale, moissanite ranks at approximately 9.25, making it one of the hardest gemstones available—nearly as hard as diamond and far harder than most alternatives. It resists scratching and wear extremely well, making it ideal for everyday jewelry such as engagement rings. Its toughness and durability are comparable to sapphire, allowing it to withstand regular wear and cleaning with confidence.

Ethics and Environmental Impact

Because moissanite is laboratory grown, it is a conflict-free gemstone and avoids many of the human rights and environmental concerns associated with diamond mining. Diamond extraction often involves large open-pit mines or deep underground operations that significantly disturb land and ecosystems. In contrast, moissanite production takes place entirely in controlled laboratory environments, leaving no mining scars. For many consumers, this sustainability and transparency make moissanite a more responsible choice.

Why Are More People Choosing Moissanite Today?

The growing popularity of moissanite is not simply because it “looks like a diamond.” Rather, it reflects a broader shift toward rational consumption, evolving aesthetics, and changing values. Moissanite offers a balanced combination of strong visual impact, excellent durability, and a more accessible price range—creating a satisfying equilibrium between appearance and long-term wear.

Not Just Similar in Appearance, but Different in Value Logic

Moissanite does not exist as a substitute dependent on diamond’s identity. Its value comes from clearly defined physical properties—high refractive index, strong fire, and structural stability—rather than scarcity-driven premiums. For first-time jewelry buyers, this means investing your budget in something you can truly see, wear, and enjoy over time, instead of paying for a label.

Clearer Origins, Greater Peace of Mind

As a gemstone that is almost entirely laboratory grown, moissanite offers a transparent and traceable origin. It does not involve mining regions or conflict-related concerns, an issue that matters increasingly to modern consumers. With information made clear, the choice itself becomes more confident and relaxed.

The Romalar Jewelry Philosophy

At Romalar Jewelry, we are committed to honesty, clarity, and accurate disclosure. Every moissanite piece is clearly labeled with its gemstone type and key specifications, so you can make a decision that truly suits you.

We believe moissanite is not a compromise, but a thoughtful choice—made with understanding, aligned with personal aesthetics, budget, and lifestyle.

If you are:

• Purchasing fine jewelry for the first time
• Deciding between diamond and moissanite
• Looking for greater visual impact and long-term wear within your budget

You can confidently explore Romalar Jewelry’s moissanite collection , or review our gemstone buying guides for beginners to discover which gemstone truly fits your needs and lifestyle.