White Sapphire (Safed Pukhraj) and Moissanite are both incredible colourless gemstones that look very similar to diamonds (Heera). This is why they are often confused as well. Since diamonds are extremely expensive, these gems are frequently used to replace them to make jewellery.
But all three of these, diamonds vs moissanite vs white sapphire, are entirely different gemstones. These clear stones are distinct from their chemical composition and formation to hardness and attributes.
In this blog, we have discussed Moissanite vs white sapphire difference to help you distinguish these gems. This guide will also help you discern them with diamonds. And choose a clear gem for yourself.
Moissanite vs White Sapphire - Definition & Physical Properties
Both of these crystal clear gemstones are the best options as an alternative to diamonds. They are shiny, widely available and have good hardness, making them an excellent possible substitute. But which one should you go for? Which one will be better out of these? Let’s find out and start by understanding about their core properties.
Major Difference - White Sapphiresare natural gemstones that are naturally formed on Earth, while Moissanite is a lab-grown gem. It was discovered by a chemist from France named Henri Moissan in 1893. This gem will rarely be found in nature.
Now, let's discuss the physical properties of these two gems along with diamond to compare these three:
Moissanite vs White Sapphire vs Diamond - Physical Properties
Specifications
| Diamond
| White Sapphire
| Moissanite
|
Occurrence
| Natural
| Natural
| Lab-grown
|
Chemical Composition
| Single element carbon - repeating pattern
| Aluminium Oxide Al2O3 + Fe,Ti,Cr
| Silicon Carbide - SiC
|
Crystal System
| Cubic
| Trigonal
| Hexagonal
|
Hardness
| 10 on Mohs scale
| 09
| 09.25 to 09.5
|
Specific Gravity
| 3.52±0.01
| 3.95 to 4.03
| 3.218-3.22
|
Refractive Index
| 2.418 (at 500 nm)
| 1.762 – 1.770(DR)
| 2.654
|
Density
| 3.5–3.53 g/cm3
| 3.95-4.03 g/cm3
| 3.21 Average
|
Colour
| They are generally colourless, but can also be found in
blue, pink, purple, yellow, red, etc.
| Colourless sometimes has a tint of
black, white, green or brown.
| Colorless, Blue, Green, Yellow, Purple, Etc.
|
The lab-grown gemstones are clearer than sapphires white, more transparent and effectively shiny, so they are exact replicas of diamonds.
Moissanite Vs White Sapphire Cost
Is sapphire more expensive than moissanite?
Well, both of these gems are available widely, so there is not much difference in the price range. However, White sapphire vs diamond prices have differences. Original heera is rare and so very expensive.
Original White Sapphire price ranges between INR 2,000 to 70,000 per carat based on the quality of the gem.
Moissanite price ranges between INR 1200 to 40,000 per carat. The finer the clarity, the more valuable it will be.
Moissanite Vs Sapphire Hardness
Diamond is the hardest material on Earth, with a 10 on the Mohs scale. Nothing can be more durable, but Mossianite and sapphire white are also relatively durable and tough gemstones.
Natural Safed Pukhraj has a hardness of 09 on the Mohs scale, which means it is a fair, tough gem-like ruby.
On the other hand, Moissanite has a hardness of 09.25 to 9.5, which is also very durable. It is nearly as tough as the Heera.
So, as per the hardness, you can choose any gem that will last you for your lifetime.
White Sapphire vs Moissanite - Significance
The gemstones are believed to be powerful and have potent energies. In history, they have traditional values and symbolism. Astrologically, each gem is connected with a particular planet and brings its blessings to you.
White sapphire vs diamond astrology is the same since both these gems are ruled by the planet Venus. So wearing them will bring you grace, beauty, luxury, feminine energies, romance and pleasure. However, diamonds are one of the Navratans and are believed to be more powerful than the original Safed Pukhraj. These Sapphires will heighten your intuition powers, bring mental clarity and expand your imagination.
There are many benefits of Moissanites as well. Its energies are said to make one happy. It will enhance one's optimistic side. Indeed, it will increase their artistic and creative qualities and help the wearer be more active and lively.
Moissanite or White Sapphire - Which One is Better?
As mentioned above, Moissanite vs white sapphire for engagement rings are equally good and can be worn daily. In appearance, Moissanites are clearer and look exactly like Heera. Though they are lab-grown. It is believed that only naturally found gemstones from the earth have metaphysical and healing powers.
So if you also want the astrological benefits along with elegance, Safed Pukhraj is better for you. However, the lab-made gem is perfect if you only want the ring or jewellery for fashion purposes.
Conclusion
Choosing which is better, moissanite or white sapphire? It depends on your budget, preferences, tastes, beliefs, and values. You can select one of them as per your need, but we advise you to make sure that whichever gem you go for is authentic and not fake. For that, buy the gem from a reputable retailer like Navratan.com, which provides a lab certification with every gem.
FAQs
Moissanite has an unrivaled eye-catching sparkle. According to brilliance refractive index and fire dispersion scales, moissanite outshines white sapphires and diamonds.
Which is better, white sapphire or moissanite? ›
Both gems rate highly on the Mohs Hardness Scale, with sapphire scoring a 9.0, and moissanite scoring slightly higher with a 9.5. Over time, however, you may want to be a little more careful with white sapphire jewelry, as white sapphires (particularly the edges) tend to wear more easily over the years.
Does moissanite sparkle white? ›
Moissanite's extra bling and extra reflection can separate it from diamond. While diamonds have equal amounts of white and rainbow sparkle, Moissanite's rainbow sparkle exceeds its white brilliance.
Are white sapphires sparkly? ›
White sapphires are not as brilliant or sparkling as diamonds. Because of their low refractive index and colorlessness, white sapphires do require frequent cleaning and regular upkeep.
What is the most sparkly cut of moissanite? ›
Top Moissanite Cuts for Maximum Sparkle
- Round Brilliant Cut. The round brilliant cut is the most popular of all shapes, easy to set into any fine metal, used at both center stones and center solitaires and clusters.. ...
- Cushion Cut. ...
- Oval Cut. ...
- Radiant Cut.
You will learn why white sapphires are not the most appropriate engagement ring gemstone by the end of this article.
- White sapphires do not reflect light back, unlike diamonds. ...
- White sapphires do not sparkle like diamonds. ...
- White sapphires are not durable enough. ...
- White sapphires are not cut like diamonds.
Today, we are able to offer the best quality lab-grown moissanite on the market today, Forever One. Moissanite has an unrivaled eye-catching sparkle. According to brilliance refractive index and fire dispersion scales, moissanite outshines white sapphires and diamonds.
Why is my moissanite not as sparkly? ›
However, like any gemstone, moissanite can accumulate dirt, oils, and grime from everyday wear, which can make it appear less sparkly or "cloudy" if not cleaned regularly. Proper cleaning with mild soap and water or a specialized jewelry cleaner can restore its original brilliance.
Do moissanite rings look fake? ›
Moissanite is often compared to diamonds and therefore is often treated as a “fake” diamond or “diamond look-alike” rather than a gemstone in its own right. As it looks very similar and has some similar properties, the use of moissanite in jewellery is discussed as a choice of moissanite vs diamond.
Does moissanite sparkle like a rainbow? ›
Moissanite's unique properties allow it to display flashes of rainbow colors, giving it a unique and vibrant look. Now that we've explored the overall sparkle of both stones, it's important to consider their durability. How will diamonds and Moissanite hold up over time?
Now to maintain and clean your Sapphire ring or White Sapphire ring at home, this is what you can do:
- Use warm water and mild dishwashing soap.
- You can also use Ammonia to 6 parts of water.
- Soak your ring into the water solution.
- Then lightly scrub it with a soft bristled unused toothbrush or brush.
Advantages of a White Sapphire
The prices for white sapphires are far lower than diamonds. This means you can get a much larger stone. Another advantage of these transparent stones is that they can be used as side stones instead of splurging on more diamonds for your piece of jewelry.
What are the benefits of white sapphire? ›
Benefits of White Sapphire Gemstone:
It levitates higher wisdom, self-esteem, confidence, courage, and clarity of thought. It stimulates the pituitary gland, enhances creative qualities, and develops imagination power for new ideas and ventures.
What stone is better than moissanite? ›
Moissanite is very durable, with a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it resistant to scratches and chipping. Lab diamonds are the most durable, so if you are likely to knock or scratch your gemstone, lab diamonds will hold up best over time!
Which sparkles more moissanite or cubic zirconia? ›
The higher the refractive index, the more brilliance the jewel emits. Moissanite's dispersion of light is 58% greater than a CZ. Therefore, Moissanite emits more fire, or flashes of rainbow light, than CZ. The luster of Moissanite is 50% higher than that of CZ.
Does moissanite sparkle too much? ›
Moissanite boasts a higher refractive index than diamond, enabling it to disperse light differently and appear even more sparkly compared with its diamond counterpart; however, some individuals prefer diamond's more subdued sparkle – ultimately it comes down to personal taste.
Are sapphires more expensive than moissanite? ›
In general, white sapphires are more affordable than diamonds but slightly more expensive than moissanite. Moissanite is often chosen for its affordability, making it a popular alternative to more expensive gemstones.
Are white sapphires good quality? ›
White sapphires rank at a 9 on the Moh's Scale, giving it a top 3 spot for hardness. Sapphire isn't as durable as diamond or moissanite, but it's still one of the hardest gemstones. It's a great option for someone looking for a stone from the earth (rather than a cultured lab-grown stone).
Can people tell the difference between white sapphire and diamond? ›
Color. According to Brantner, most people will be able to tell the difference between a white sapphire and a diamond just by slight differences in color, since white sapphires tend to be more dull and cloudy. “White sapphires can appear 'glassy' or 'watery' depending on their cut proportions,” she shares.
