Moissanite has rapidly gained popularity for its affordability, remarkable durability, and eye-catching brilliance. Yet, like any gemstone—natural or lab-created—it has its own set of trade-offs. Below is a closer look at potential drawbacks, with added context to help readers understand how moissanite compares to natural diamonds.
1. Subtle Color Tint
Moissanite is celebrated for its brilliance, but it can exhibit slight yellow, green, or gray tints, particularly in larger stones and under certain lighting conditions. While this tint may not be glaring for most casual observers, those who prioritize an absolutely colorless appearance (common in high-grade diamonds) might view this nuance as a drawback.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: High-quality diamonds graded D–F are prized for their icy whiteness. Moissanite typically corresponds to the G–I color range, though certain premium cuts or brands can appear whiter.
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: Even with a subtle tint, moissanite can offer a bright, “white” sparkle in everyday wear, especially when well-cut and properly maintained.
Sources: Frank Darling, IceCartel, Loose Moissanite
2. “Too Perfect” Appearance
As a lab-created gemstone, moissanite often boasts exceptional clarity and symmetry. While many people love the clean, flawless look, others find it lacks the distinct character that can come with a naturally mined stone, which may include slight inclusions or unique growth patterns.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: Diamonds, even high-quality ones, can possess minor inclusions that some view as adding authenticity or “soul.”
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: A lab-created gem with minimal inclusions can be easier to evaluate and often comes at a more accessible price, making it an appealing choice for those who want a guaranteed near-flawless look.
Source: Frank Darling
3. Distinctive “Rainbow” Sparkle
Moissanite’s high refractive index creates intense, rainbow-colored flashes (often described as “fire”). While this feature is a major draw for some, it may feel overly flashy for those who prefer the more subtle scintillation of a diamond.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: Diamonds reflect white light with occasional flashes of color, often perceived as more understated. Moissanite’s stronger rainbow effect can be seen as both a perk and a downside, depending on personal style.
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: For those who love a bold, attention-grabbing sparkle, moissanite’s fire is a key selling point.
Sources: Loose Moissanite, Reddit Discussion
4. Lab-Created Origin and Emotional Value
Most moissanite on the market is lab-grown, which appeals to buyers prioritizing ethical sourcing and a lower environmental impact. However, for those who value tradition, a storied “history,” and the cultural significance of mined diamonds, moissanite may feel less emotionally charged.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: Diamonds—especially those with a traceable origin—can still carry environmental or social concerns, though many organizations now offer ethically sourced diamonds.
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: Lab-grown gems can be a responsible choice, often costing a fraction of mined diamonds while eliminating concerns about conflict or unethical mining practices.
5. Prestige and Resale Considerations
Diamonds have long been associated with luxury, romance, and status, partly due to successful marketing and their scarcity relative to moissanite. Since moissanite is often viewed as a diamond alternative rather than a direct competitor, it may not hold the same cultural cachet or resale value.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: Diamonds are sometimes considered an investment, though the reality of resale value varies widely. Moissanite, being lab-made and more abundant, generally has a much lower resale price.
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: If budget, style, and day-to-day wear are more important than potential resale, moissanite’s lower cost and durability are strong advantages.
Sources: VRAI, Diamond Rensu
6. Limited Expertise Among Jewelers
Not every jeweler has ample experience working with moissanite. It requires specialized knowledge for certain repairs, resizing, or custom design tasks. This limitation means you may need to seek out jewelers who specifically market or regularly handle moissanite.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: Diamonds are more universally dealt with by jewelers, so finding expertise is rarely a problem.
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: The growth in moissanite’s popularity has led to more jewelers gaining experience, and online retailers specializing in moissanite can often provide dedicated customer service and warranties.
Sources: Frank Darling, Loose Moissanite
7. Durability Compared to Diamonds
Moissanite scores approximately 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale—extremely durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still slightly less hard than a diamond (10 on the Mohs scale), meaning it can be marginally more susceptible to scratches or chipping over an extended period.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: Diamonds are the hardest known natural material, making them exceptionally resistant to wear. Moissanite’s slight difference, however, rarely poses a significant problem for routine activities.
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: For the majority of daily wear scenarios, moissanite’s hardness is more than sufficient. Proper care and mindful handling can further reduce the risk of damage.
Source: Bova Diamonds
8. Maintenance and Cleaning
Some moissanite owners report an “oil slick” effect—an iridescent film that accumulates on the gem’s surface—especially with frequent contact from lotions, oils, or everyday grime. Though this can momentarily dull the sparkle, it’s easily remedied with mild soap or dedicated jewelry cleaners.
Context:
- Comparisons to Diamonds: Diamonds can also accumulate oils and grime, though moissanite’s reflective properties may make such films more noticeable.
- Reasons to Still Consider Moissanite: Routine cleaning is straightforward, and moissanite’s overall brilliance usually returns quickly with basic care.
Sources: Reddit Discussion
Conclusion
Moissanite offers compelling benefits: it’s typically less expensive than diamonds, boasts a near-flawless look, and comes with ethical advantages thanks to its lab-grown origin. Its intense brilliance, unique rainbow fire, and relative hardness make it an excellent everyday gem for many.
However, moissanite’s subtle color tint, occasionally “too perfect” appearance, and lab-created nature may not appeal to everyone—particularly those seeking the storied history and status that accompany natural diamonds. The cultural cachet, resale considerations, and varying levels of jeweler expertise also come into play.
By weighing these factors—appearance, durability, provenance, cultural significance, and cost—buyers can choose a gemstone that resonates with their personal values, style preferences, and long-term goals. Moissanite may not replace diamonds in prestige or tradition, but for many modern shoppers, it presents an exciting alternative that delivers both brilliance and value.
