Are Moissanite Diamonds Fake? Debunking the Myths About Moissanite
by sensitive stones on Jan 26, 2025
Many people ask, "Are moissanite diamonds fake?" The answer is twofold: moissanite is not a diamond, but it’s also not fake. It’s a unique gemstone with qualities that rival traditional diamonds, offering a stunning alternative that’s ethical, affordable, and brilliant. It also resonates with the growing trend of quiet luxury, offering timeless elegance and quality that speaks for itself.
So, what makes moissanite so special? Is it really as good as diamonds—or even better? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between moissanite and diamonds, debunk common misconceptions, and reveal why moissanite is becoming a top choice for jewelry lovers worldwide.
If you’ve ever wondered whether moissanite is the right choice for you, keep reading—you might be surprised by what you discover!

What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral made up of silicon carbide. It was first discovered in 1893 by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Henri Moissan in a meteorite crater. However, due to its rarity in nature, nearly all moissanite available today is lab-grown.
Key Features of Moissanite:
- Appearance: Moissanite resembles diamonds in clarity and brilliance but has unique rainbow-like sparkles.
- Durability: It ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it extremely durable and resistant to scratches.
- Eco-Friendliness: Lab-grown moissanite requires no mining, making it a sustainable choice.
Want to own a gemstone with exceptional durability and brilliance? Check out our Moissanite Jewelry Collection.

Is Moissanite a Fake Diamond?
The misconception that moissanite is a “fake diamond” comes from its visual similarity to diamonds and its use as a diamond alternative. Let’s clear this up:
- Moissanite Is Not an Imitation: Moissanite is a genuine gemstone with unique properties, not an imitation. Its fire and brilliance often exceed those of a diamond.
- Marketing Confusion: Because moissanite is marketed as a more affordable alternative to diamonds, it is sometimes wrongly perceived as "fake."
Fact: Moissanite isn’t trying to replace diamonds—it’s a gemstone in its own right, offering an ethical and beautiful option for jewelry lovers.
How Does Moissanite Compare to Diamonds?
Here’s a comparison of moissanite and diamonds to help you understand their differences:
Property | Moissanite | Diamond |
Brilliance | More fiery, rainbow-like flashes | Subtle, white light brilliance |
Durability | 9.25 on Mohs scale | 10 on Mohs scale |
Price | 80-90% less expensive | Premium-priced |
Origins | Lab-grown, sustainable | Often mined |
Eco-Friendliness | Minimal environmental impact | Mining impacts environment |
Why Choose Moissanite?
Moissanite is gaining popularity for several reasons. It’s not just an affordable option—it’s a statement of individuality, ethics, and style.
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Ethical and Sustainable:
Unlike mined diamonds, moissanite is lab-grown, ensuring minimal environmental impact. -
Affordable Luxury:
Moissanite costs a fraction of the price of a diamond while delivering equal (if not greater) beauty. Its timeless appeal makes it a go-to choice for those who value quiet luxury—jewelry that exudes sophistication without being ostentatious. -
Durability for Daily Wear:
With its high hardness rating, moissanite is perfect for engagement rings and other jewelry you wear daily. -
Unique Brilliance:
Its rainbow sparkles set it apart, offering a vibrant and eye-catching look.
Certifications and Quality Assurance
When purchasing moissanite, certifications play a crucial role in ensuring authenticity and quality. The GRA (Gemological Research Association) Certification is a widely recognized standard, verifying the gemstone’s brilliance, durability, and authenticity. Each GRA-certified stone comes with a unique identification number, ensuring traceability and peace of mind. This certification guarantees that the moissanite meets strict gemological standards. Other certifications, like those from IGI (International Gemological Institute), also provide assurance of quality and origin.

Black Moissanite Small Hoop Earrings, 2.6 ct
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does moissanite pass as a diamond?
Yes, to the untrained eye, moissanite can look identical to a diamond. However, its fiery brilliance may give it away in certain lighting conditions.
Q: Can jewelers tell the difference between moissanite and diamonds?
Yes, professional jewelers can identify moissanite using specialized tools. They may check the stone’s refractive index, electrical conductivity, or observe doubling of facets under magnification—properties unique to moissanite that differ from diamonds.
Q: Does moissanite lose its sparkle over time?
No, moissanite does not lose its sparkle over time. Its brilliance and fire remain intact as it resists dirt, oil, and scratches better than many other gemstones. Regular cleaning will keep it looking as radiant as ever.
Q: Is moissanite worth buying?
Absolutely! Moissanite offers a stunning appearance, exceptional durability, and ethical benefits at a much lower cost than diamonds.
Q: How can I tell if my moissanite is real?
To confirm authenticity, look for moissanite's unique properties:
- Check the Sparkle: Hold the stone under bright light and observe its brilliance. Moissanite displays unique rainbow-like flashes that are more vibrant than diamonds.
- Test the Hardness: Gently scratch the surface with a material softer than 9.25 on the Mohs scale (e.g., a copper penny). Moissanite is highly scratch-resistant, second only to diamonds.
- Certification: Look for an authenticity certificate, such as GRA certification, which verifies the gemstone's quality and origin. Ensure the certificate includes a unique identification number.
All our moissanite jewelry is GRA-certified for authenticity and quality. Discover your perfect piece today and shop moissanite jewelry with confidence!
Conclusion
Calling moissanite a “fake diamond” undermines its unique qualities and value. Moissanite is a genuine gemstone with unmatched brilliance, durability, and affordability. Whether you’re seeking an ethical choice or an alternative to expensive diamonds, moissanite is a brilliant option to consider.
Intrigued by the concept of quiet luxury? Discover more about understated elegance and timeless jewelry in our blog.