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what's the difference between Moissanite and Lab Diamond

what's the difference between moissanite and lab diamond

Here’s a clear, local guide from Farsi Jewelers in Sandy Springs—serving Metro Atlanta—to help you decide what’s right for your ring: moissanite, lab-grown diamond, or natural diamond.

Quick Comparison

  • Moissanite: Very bright, excellent value, different optical look than diamond, very durable.
  • Lab-grown diamond: Real diamond, same hardness and sparkle as natural, typically lower price per carat.
  • Natural diamond: Traditional rarity and long-term heritage, broad range of qualities and prices.

Moissanite vs. Lab-Grown Diamond

Many couples in Sandy Springs and Atlanta ask us about the difference between moissanite and lab-grown diamonds. While they can look similar at first glance, they are very different stones:

  • Composition: Lab-grown diamonds are pure carbon, identical to natural diamonds. Moissanite is made of silicon carbide, giving it unique optical properties.
  • Sparkle: Moissanite often shows a rainbow-like sparkle (called “fire”), while diamonds—lab or natural—show a classic white brilliance.
  • Hardness: Diamonds are the hardest material on earth (10 on the Mohs scale). Moissanite is also extremely durable at ~9.25, making it excellent for daily wear.
  • Price: Moissanite is usually the most affordable option. Lab-grown diamonds cost more than moissanite but are significantly less expensive than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.

If you want the look and heritage of a true diamond, lab-grown is a fantastic option. If you want maximum size and sparkle for your budget, moissanite is worth exploring.

Which Fits Your Priorities?

Max size for budget: consider lab-grown or moissanite.
Classic tradition: natural diamond.
Everyday durability: all three perform well; diamond is the hardest (10), moissanite ~9.25.

See It on Your Hand

Use our in-store custom ring builder to compare shapes and sizes in person—then review clarity/color grades and cut quality with a GIA Graduate Gemologist right here in Sandy Springs.

Related Guides

Expert Insight

“There’s no one ‘best’ choice—only the best match for your style and budget. Seeing stones side by side in the builder makes the decision clear.” — Kam, GIA Graduate Gemologist

FAQs for Sandy Springs & Atlanta Couples

Is moissanite as durable as diamond?
Yes. Moissanite is ~9.25 on the Mohs scale, which makes it highly durable for daily wear. Diamond is harder at 10, but both are excellent for engagement rings in Atlanta’s active lifestyle.
Do lab-grown diamonds test as real diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. They pass diamond testers and are graded by the same standards used for natural stones.
Are lab-grown diamonds popular in Sandy Springs and Atlanta?
Absolutely. Over the last few years, lab-grown diamonds have become one of the most popular choices for engagement rings in Metro Atlanta because they offer the same beauty as natural diamonds at a much lower price point.
How do I care for moissanite or lab-grown diamonds?
Both moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are easy to care for. Clean them at home with mild dish soap and warm water, or bring them to Farsi Jewelers in Sandy Springs for professional ultrasonic cleaning and inspection. Regular maintenance ensures long-lasting brilliance.
Which looks more like a natural diamond—moissanite or lab-grown?
Lab-grown diamonds are identical to natural diamonds, so they are visually indistinguishable. Moissanite has a slightly different sparkle—more rainbow fire—which some couples love, while others prefer the classic diamond brilliance.
Can I compare them in person at your Sandy Springs store?
Yes—our custom ring builder lets you try different sizes, shapes, and stones side by side. This is the best way to see moissanite and lab-grown diamonds up close before deciding which one suits your style and budget.

 

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