Moissanite, natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds

The stone is a good place to start when choosing a tennis chain, pendant or pair of studs. Moissanite, natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds can all bring sparkle to a piece, but their names describe different materials or origins. Here is how to compare them clearly.

What each name means

• Natural diamond is diamond formed through geological processes.
• Lab-grown diamond is diamond produced in a controlled setting. It has essentially the same chemical, physical and optical properties as natural diamond.
• Moissanite is a different gem material: silicon carbide. The moissanite used in contemporary jewelry is generally laboratory-created. It can resemble diamond, but it should be identified as moissanite.

The distinction between laboratory-grown diamond and a diamond simulant matters. A laboratory origin alone does not tell you which material you are buying. GIA: Simulants, Moissanite and Lab-Grown Diamonds. GIA: Synthetic Moissanite, A New Diamond Substitute.

How they look in jewelry

Moissanite has greater dispersion than diamond, which can produce more noticeable rainbow flashes, often called fire. Cut, lighting, stone size and the setting all affect what you see. Natural and lab-grown diamonds can look alike to the eye; their origin is established through suitable testing. GIA: Synthetic Moissanite with Fraudulent GIA Inscription. GIA: Simulants, Moissanite and Lab-Grown Diamonds.

Look at a piece in everyday lighting as well as bright display lighting. For a tennis chain, pay attention to the overall line of stones. For studs or a pendant, consider whether you prefer stronger rainbow flashes or a different balance of light and contrast. The best appearance is the one you enjoy wearing.

Durability includes the whole piece

Diamond ranks 10 on the Mohs hardness scale; moissanite is commonly listed at 9.25. Hardness measures resistance to scratching. It does not make a gem, clasp or setting immune to impact or damage. GIA: Synthetic Moissanite, A New Diamond Substitute. GIA: What Are Simulated Diamonds?.

A chain also depends on its metal, links, stone settings and clasp. Read those specifications alongside the stone description. A durable stone does not change the care needs of plated silver.

What to check in the listing

• Stone identity: moissanite, natural diamond or laboratory-grown diamond.
• Metal construction: the base metal and any plating or surface finish.
• Dimensions: chain length, overall width and stone measurements where provided.
• Supporting information: who issued any report, what it identifies and whether it applies to your item.
• Order terms: the current delivery estimate and written return or custom-order terms.

The FTC recommends understanding gemstone terminology and obtaining the seller’s return and refund policies in writing. A grading label in a product title should not substitute for reading the underlying details. FTC: Buying Gemstones, Diamonds, and Pearls.

Does a diamond tester settle it

A basic thermal tester alone does not establish that a stone is diamond. Moissanite has similar thermal behavior and can give a diamond-like response on some devices. Ask for suitable gemological identification if you need to establish what a stone is. GIA: Synthetic Moissanite with Fraudulent GIA Inscription.

Choose the piece as a whole

Compare the design, fit, construction and current total price as well as the stone. There is no need to treat one material as the right choice for everyone. Choose with a clear description of what you are getting, then follow the care guidance for that complete piece.