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Moissanite Rings: Read Before You Buy!
Is a Moissanite a real diamond?
No, Moissanite is its own gemstone. This means that Moissanite sparkles differently, has a different hardness, and a different chemical makeup than Diamond. Practically, Moissanite has much more colored sparkle (“fire”) than a Diamond, it is a 9.25 on the hardness scale (Diamond is a 10), and Moissanite is carbon silicate (whereas Diamond is pure carbon). This means your Moissanite will repel dirt and oil better than a diamond!
In addition, Moissanite is a man-made gemstone, meaning it can be cut in any size or shape you want! Natural diamonds are limited to the size and shape the Earth grows them. So, choosing a Moissanite for your engagement ring center stone gives you a ton of flexibility. It is also super sustainable – no mining is needed when you choose Moissanite!
Are there different grades of Moissanite rings?
Yes. There are three basic grades of Moissanite. When Moissanite first came out, technology had only advanced so far as to make yellowish-green stones. We call this “classic” Moissanite, and it is still on the market (look out!). Because what people really wanted was a good diamond alternative, gem scientists continued to experiment. Today, Charles and Colvard offers colorless and near-colorless Moissanite. Colorless Moissanite looks like an E color diamond, whereas near-colorless Moissanite looks more like an H colored diamond. These newer stones are gorgeous Moissanite engagement ring options.
Left: Classic Moissanite | Middle: Forever One Near Colorless Moissanite | Right: Forever One Colorless Moissanite
What should I know when buying a Moissanite ring?
Does Moissanite have resale value?
Yes! High end Forever One Moissanite rings have a healthy resale market. “We have seen a significant increase in both the amount of listings of moissanite rings as well as the amount of sales.” says Mara Opperman of IDoNowIDont.com, the engagement ring resale marketplace. So, while there is a persistent rumor circulating the web, the results speak for themselves. People who love moissanite love it brand new, and on the secondary market! So, you don’t need to worry.
Will you regret Moissanite?
Not if you love Moissanite for what it is, instead of what it isn’t. We have thousands of happy Moissanite customers! Couples who choose Moissanite because they like the super-firey look of it, or who love that it is super sustainable, will love their Moissanite forever. On the other hand, those who purchase Moissanite for the sole intent of trying to “pass it off” as a Diamond may wish they had that Diamond in the long run.
Will Moissanite last forever?
Yes it will. Moissanite is a beautiful gemstone that is very hard – a 9.25 on the hardness scale! So, just like a Diamond is forever, so too, is Moissanite. “Moissanite has become a popular choice for engagement rings. Moissanite, like diamond, is a very durable stone.” notes Opperman, citing IDoNowIDont’s increasing amount of estate and recycled Moissanite.
Is Moissanite ethical?
Yes! Moissanite is among the most ethical, sustainable engagement ring choices out there. This is because Moissanite is a man made stone. So, no mining is needed to give you a perfectly brilliant Moissanite.
Is your whole Moissanite ring sustainable?
One thing I think many people do not consider when purchasing their Moissanite engagement ring is, what about the side stones? If you choose a Moissanite center stone for sustainability purposes – did you also make sure your ring’s side stones were lab made or Moissanite too? What about the metal – is it recycled? And what about your moissanite wedding band? If you want to make sure your ring is super sustainable – make sure that the whole ring, and not just the Moissanite, is sustainably sourced.
Bonus! Choosing Lab Diamond side stones is the best way to get max sparkle!
Can I pass off my Moissanite ring as a diamond?
We personally don’t suggest trying to pass it off as a diamond because although they look very similar, there are visual differences that can be seen with the naked eye. Plus, we think Moissanite has its own bragging rights! There’s no shame in letting someone know you chose a super-sustainable gem that’s more brilliant than Diamond!
That said, colorless and near-colorless Moissanite do look similar to Diamond. And, Moissanite is also the only gemstone (other than Diamond) that “passes” as a Diamond on a standard handheld diamond point tester. But remember: Moissanite’s extreme fire (its dispersion is twice that of Diamond!) gives it away in most brilliant-cut stones.
Pro tip: Emerald and Asscher cut Moissanite “pass” much more easily, as these shapes glimmer instead of sparkle. So, that telltale fire isn’t as noticeable.
Left: 8x6mm Emerald Moissanite | Right: 9.5x7mm Emerald Diamond
How can you tell a diamond from a Moissanite ring?
Moissanite has telltale fire as well as facet doubling from a side view. So, when trying to tell if someone has a Moissanite ring or a diamond ring, move the ring around and watch its sparkle carefully. Does it have an equal amount of white and colored light? Or, does it have a ton of sparkly colored light? Stones with extreme fire may be a Moissanite. Another way to tell is by looking through the stone’s side facets down to the culet (the bottom point). If the culet appears doubled, you do not have a diamond.
Why is some Moissanite less expensive than other Moissanite?
Searching around for the right Moissanite ring center stone can be a bit confusing because of the extreme difference in price. However, this difference is easily explainable. Classic Moissanite (the yellowish-green one) is much less expensive than colorless and near-colorless Moissanite. Simply, it’s just not as pretty! Also, lesser quality Moissanite isn’t cut very well. I’ve even seen low-end Moissanite be cut the wrong direction, so all its facets look doubled head on! Yikes! So, when looking for your Moissanite engagement ring’s center stone, make sure you select a high quality, colorless gem like Forever One.
Left: Example of doubling on table of Moissanite | Right: Example of doubling on side of Moissanite
How much is a Moissanite engagement ring?
The cost of your Moissanite ring is the cost of the Moissanite center stone plus your ring setting. Do Amore recommends man made diamonds (also called lab created) for accent stones. However, we can custom create your moissanite engagement ring or moissanite wedding band with accent moissanite, too! So, if you want a fully sustainable Moissanite ring, simply write us a note that you want Moissanite accent stones when you place your order!
| Carat Size | GIA Certified Diamond (Round, I-color, VS2) | Classic Moissanite | Forever One Moissanite | |
| .5 | $1,300+ | $89 | $269 | |
| 1.0 | $5,000+ | $269 | $599 | |
| 1.5 | $13,000+ | $449 | $1,049 |
How can I buy a Moissanite ring?
Right here! Start by choosing a setting, or, start by choosing your gorgeous Moissanite center stone.
Once you’ve selected your ring or Moissanite, simply select “pair with” and then select what’s missing. Do Amore offers a selection of truly beautiful rings made with conflict-free diamonds (or Moissanite!) side stones, along with recycled metals. If you’re looking for a moissanite wedding band, we can make you one! And, every ring purchased from Do Amore helps build a well for an international community in need.
Victoria with a 7.5mm Hearts & Arrows Moissanite
Can you help me design my Moissanite ring?
We’d love to! Send us a note here, or email us at care@doamore.com. We have been working with Moissanite for a long time and love it. We’ll help you select a beautiful center stone for your perfect Moissanite engagement ring!
The Diamond Tester: What Passes and What Doesn’t
There’s lots of talk about diamond testers lately! From those just learning that Moissanite can “pass” as diamond to teenagers testing their teachers rings (OMG), the intrigue seems pretty universal. But are “diamond testers” all they are cracked up to be? And how can you know what you have on your finger? I’m here to let you in on the inside scoop:
What is a diamond tester?
When someone refers to a “diamond tester”, most people mean a handheld “pen” tester that measures a gemstone’s thermal conductivity. In other worse, how a gem handles heat. These testers use a small metal point which, when put on a gem’s surface, measure how quickly heat travels through the stone. People use these to test diamonds because diamonds have super high conductivity.
Do Diamond testers really work?
Diamond testers can be a helpful tool as part of a multi-stage test, but should not be solely relied upon. These little pens are a helpful way to separate out CZ from diamond. But that should be the beginning and end of their use. Why? Because other gems also have high conductivity (such as moissanite) and because the testers themselves notoriously malfunction. Reasons I have seen these testers fail include user error (stones will not test correctly if the point touches metal), low battery, or age/abuse of the pen.
Can fake diamonds pass diamond tester?
Yes, some diamond simulants can pass a diamond tester. For example, moissanite, a man made gem, may pass as a diamond on a standard tester pen. This is because moissanite also has very high thermal conductivity! Other diamond simulants, such as CZ, will not pass the tester. So, it’s important to use multiple tests to confirm your stone!
Note the CZ’s (left) lack of depth and “plasticky” reflection vs the Diamond’s (right) multi-tonal shades and crisp reflection?
Diamonds and Diamond Testers
How do Jewelers tell if diamonds are real?
The major tests jewelers use to tell real diamonds from other white stones are confirming they are singly refractive, have 10/10 hardness, and super high conductivity. Moissanite is doubly refractive under magnification, which easily separates it from diamond. CZ, white sapphire, and white topaz do not have high conductivity using a pen tester. Finally, lesser known diamond simulants do not have high hardness, which can be seen through magnification.
Does a real diamond sparkle rainbow?
Yes! Rainbow sparkle in a diamond is called “fire”. There is some misinformation out there that diamonds do not show colored light – however this is false. In fact, a diamond’s ability to show a rainbow of color is one of its most prized features, and one of the reasons it is preferred by many over other white stones like white sapphire or white topaz. Moreover, diamonds show a balanced display of rainbow and white sparkle. This should be compared against moissanite and CZ’s major colored sparkle, which outshines its white sparkle.
Do lab diamonds pass the diamond tester?
Typically a lab diamond will test as diamond on a pen tester because they are pure carbon just like mined diamonds. Testing a lab diamond is a little more complicated than testing a natural diamond, however. That is because lab diamonds are grown using differing methods and over differing courses of time. This results in different crystal densities (and thermal conductivity levels). As a result, some lab diamonds (HPHT especially) may test as Moissanite on a diamond tester and require further testing.
My lab diamond tests as Moissanite, what gives!?
Ironically, just like Moissanite can test as diamond, diamond can also test like Moissanite. This is because diamonds have a range of thermal conductivity, depending upon crystal density. This is especially true for HPHT lab diamonds. So, if this happens to you, don’t immediately assume the worst. Again, these pen testers are not foolproof. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure the person who tested your stone knows how to tell diamond from moissanite without a pen tester. If your jeweler was not properly trained (or trained at all – there is actually no training required to write appraisals as a retailer) they may not know how to properly identify the stone. So, ask how they intend to test. If in doubt, locate an independent gemologist appraiser (I personally recommend NAJA).
- Check for double refraction (“doubling“) under magnification. When looking through the side facets of a Moissanite under magnification, the culet will appear doubled/fuzzy. Diamonds do not show this feature. So, this is an easy way to test for Moissanite. If your jeweler does not know what double refraction is or how to see it, you need a different jeweler.
- Look for your diamond’s certificate number under a scope. Certificate inscriptions are microscopic and have just gotten smaller over the years, so a jeweler’s loupe may not show it. Make sure to use a proper microscope to confirm your certificate number. Moissanites are not individually numbered like diamonds, so finding your diamond’s certificate number is an easy way to confirm your stone.
How do you test a lab grown diamond?
Lab diamonds can be separated from natural diamonds by reviewing the diamond’s certificate inscription underneath a scope. Lab diamonds will be marked “lab grown” or “LG”, whereas naturals will not have these prefixes. Gem scientists are also be able to tell lab diamonds from natural diamonds using advanced magnification, fluorescence, and laser techniques.
What kind of diamonds pass diamond tester?
Natural diamonds, lab diamonds, and non-diamond moissanite! This is because a handheld pen “diamond tester” actually only tests the ability of a gem to conduct heat. It does not test for whether or not the stone is, for example, pure carbon (like diamonds are). So, while the pen tester is helpful – it’s only one piece of the puzzle!
Moissanite (left) vs White Sapphire vs Diamond (right)
Moissanite and Diamond Testers
Can a diamond tester detect moissanite?
Some testers show a moissanite result whereas others test moissanite as diamond. It all depends upon the model of the tester. However, because of the varying levels of diamond thermal conductivity (discussed above) a test as “diamond” or “moissanite” on one of these pens only gives so much information. Once a stone tests as diamond or moissanite on a pen tester, confirming magnification tests should be performed via microscope!
Is there a moissanite tester?
There are pen testers that provide a certain result for moissanite, however, moissanite is best confirmed through viewing “doubling” under magnification. Why? Especially with the growing popularity of HPHT diamonds, which may test as moissanite on a pen tester, viewing doubling under magnification is the easiest way to conclusively separate the two. And it’s easy! Just look through the “crown” facets of the stone under a scope.
How do you test for diamond and moissanite?
There are a few options! If you’re using a pen tester, start there to rule out diamond simulants other than moissanite. Then check for certificate or doubling! Here’s how:
- Test for high thermal conductivity. Use that pen tester! Does it come up as diamond? You probably have either a diamond or a moissanite. If the stone does not have high thermal conductivity, it is likely not a moissanite or diamond.
- Check for a certificate inscription. The majority of diamonds have a microscopic engraving on their girdle which shows their certificate number. In addition, lab grown diamonds say “lab grown” or “LG”. Moissanite will not show this – so this is a great way to tell them apart!
- Check for doubling. When you look through the crown facets of a diamond, the culet (the bottom point) will be crisp and single. When you look at a Moissanite like this, it will look like it is doubled.
CZ and Diamond Testers
Can CZ pass a diamond tester?
No. Cubic Zirconia (or CZ) does not have high enough thermal conductivity to pass. So, when you test a CZ with a diamond tester, it will not show as diamond. In fact, distinguishing CZ from diamond is one of the most important uses of thermal conductivity pen testers.
How can you tell a real diamond from a CZ?
Real diamonds test as diamond on thermal conductivity testers and most have microscopic laser inscriptions. Those are the two easiest ways to test between diamond and CZ. More nuanced tests include “pavilion flash” and “heft” – both of these require the stone to be loose. To test for pavilion flash, put your stone point side up and flash a penlight over it. If the stone flashes blue, the stone is likely CZ. And, to test for heft, weigh the stone in your hand. If it feels “too heavy” for its size, it is likely CZ (CZ weighs about twice as much as diamond).
White Sapphire and Diamond Testers
Do white sapphires pass a diamond tester?
No. White Sapphire does not have high enough thermal conductivity to pass. And, white sapphire looks quite different than diamond, moissanite, and CZ, so using a pen tester is not common. Whereas the high conductivity gems show rainbow sparkle, white sapphire shows white and silver sparkle. It also tends to have a silvery undertone. So, these are often easier ways to spot sapphire from diamond.
How could you tell a white diamond from a white sapphire?
Whereas diamond will pass a pen test and have rainbow sparkle, white sapphire will not pass and has white and silver sparkle. Sapphire is usually faceted differently than diamond, as well, with rectangular facets on the bottom of the stone. Finally, more nuanced tests include finding the “refractive index” of the gem. Notably, white sapphire’s refractive index also helps to distinguish white sapphire from white topaz!
Moissanite (top) vs White Sapphire (bottom) ovals
Can you answer more of my questions about diamond testers?
Sure! While we do not offer appraisal services or gem testing services, if you have questions about why your stone is testing the way it is, I’d be happy to answer them! And, as always, the best way to protect yourself in this once in a lifetime purchase is to choose a reputable jeweler to buy your diamond or moissanite from (hint hint: check out our reviews on Facebook, The Knot and Wedding Wire)!
Diamonds vs Moissanite: What You Need to Know
Although an engagement ring is often set with a diamond, there are other options that can make a ring more affordable and just as beautiful. One of my favorite options is moissanite. Moissanite, originally discovered in 1893 in a meteor crater, is a very rare gem. Therefore, moissanite, as we know it today, is almost exclusively lab-grown. Let’s compare Diamonds vs Moissanite for color, hardness, brilliance, and price:
Is a moissanite diamond a real diamond?
No. Moissanite and diamond are two different gemstones! While they look similar, there are ways to tell them apart. The biggest differences between moissanite vs diamond are amount of sparkle, cost, and reflection.
Diamonds vs Moissanite, Brilliance:
Moissanite is actually more brilliant than a diamond! Brilliance, which refers to a stone’s ability to reflect white light, is a good measure for how much a gemstone will ‘sparkle’. Moissanite’s brilliance is higher than diamond’s due to its higher “refractive index” (Diamond’s is 2.42, whereas Moissanite’s is 2.65). This is a technical term for how much a gemstone bends light. Moissanite bends light a lot, meaning light bounces around more, giving it max sparkle! In addition, moissanite has a higher dispersion than a diamond, too. So, in addition to your moissanite giving off more white sparkle, it will actually reflect more colored sparkle (“fire”), too. In fact, your moissanite will look like a firework next to a diamond.
Bonus! Because moissanite contains some silicon, it is also less likely to attract grease or dirt than a diamond. That means a moissanite will sparkle more in between cleanings, too.
Diamond (left) vs Moissanite (right) sparkle (credit: Lauren B)
Does Moissanite lose its sparkle?
No! Moissanite stays super sparkly for its whole life. Because of its superior hardness and great refractive index, Moissanite stands the test of time. Unlike a CZ (a less beautiful diamond simulant), you never have to worry about Moissanite becoming dull, losing its brilliance, or getting foggy. It will be beautiful and bright forever!
Can you tell moissanite from diamond?
Yes, if you look closely. 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. Moissanite’s unique double refraction can also separate it from diamond, if you know what to look for:
Diamonds vs Moissanite, Reflection:
Diamond is singly refractive, whereas Moissanite is doubly refractive. This means that if you look through the side of a Moissanite, you may see double! In Forever One, this feature is not noticeable unless you know to look for it, and look very closely. Other doubly refractive gems include sapphire, alexandrite, and tanzanite.
Moissanite vs Diamond Under Magnification
Diamonds vs Moissanite, Color:
Both moissanite and diamond can be colorless or near-colorless. The amount of color a moissanite has depends upon the type of moissanite. Classic moissanite, the first moissanite that man created, is a greenish-yellow hue. It’s not very pretty, and Do Amore does not sell it. In fact, many feel that classic moissanite’s color is similar to a GIA-certified K-color diamond (quite yellow). On the other hand, Forever One Moissanite can be colorless or near colorless! Forever One Colorless has the color of a GIA-certified E-color diamond. Forever One Near Colorless has the color of a GIA-certified I-color diamond. Both of these gems are gorgeous, come in a variety of sizes, and make perfect engagement stones.
Is Forever Brilliant Moissanite the same as Forever One?
No. Forever Brilliant was near colorless, Forever One can be colorless! Have you been looking around and seeing “Forever Brilliant” Moissanite mentioned? Wondering what is Forever Brilliant Moissanite is? Forever Brilliant was Charles & Colvard’s first attempt at a colorless-looking Moissanite. However, because the technology wasn’t as great back then, it turned out near colorless. As a result, when Charles & Colvard developed Colorless Moissanite (what everyone really wanted to begin with), they called it Forever One.
Classic Moissanite (left) vs Near Colorless Moissanite (center) vs Forever One Colorless Moissanite (right)
Forever One vs Forever Brilliant Moissanite
Colorless Forever One Moissanite is widely thought to be more beautiful than near colorless Forever Brilliant was. So, we highly recommend choosing a crisp and icy Forever One colorless for your engagement ring! However, if you’re looking for the warmth of a near colorless, Do Amore can special order a Forever One Near Colorless for you, too!
Hot Tip: Classic & Near-colorless moissanite is still sold by numerous jewelers. So, to make sure you don’t get stuck with a yellow-green classic moissanite or only a near-colorless stone, demand Forever One Colorless!
VIEW OUR FOREVER ONE MOISSANITE COLLECTION>
Which Moissanite is most like diamond?
Forever One Colorless Hearts & Arrows looks most like a diamond as it’s cut to show even white and rainbow sparkle! Non Hearts & Arrows Moissanite will show more rainbow sparkle than white. Hearts & Arrows Moissanite is only faceted in round and cushion shapes, currently. Other shapes that look more similar to diamond include emerald and asscher, as these shapes do not truly “sparkle”, and instead have more of a sheen.
Forever One Moissanite (top) VS Hearts & Arrows Forever One Moissanite (bottom)
Moissanite vs Diamond, Hardness:
Moissanite is a very hard gem, but not quite as hard as diamond. The harder a material, the more difficult it is to scratch. And, on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, moissanite is rated as a 9.25. This is a great score, and higher than any gemstone used in jewelry besides diamonds! Diamonds, which are the hardest known mineral, score a 10.
Moissanite ring care
Can I wear Moissanite ring everyday?
Yes! Moissanite’s great hardness makes it an ideal ring to wear everyday! At a 9.25 hardness, it stands up to wear and tear extremely well, making it a great engagement ring choice. Also, Moissanite’s mineral makeup means that it resists oil and dirt better than a diamond.
Does Moissanite break easily?
Moissanite resists chipping and breaking better than diamond. Diamond, when struck against something hard, can sheer off in the direction of its crystal growth (this is called “cleaving”). Moissanite, on the other hand, does not break in its crystal direction, as its cleavage in “indistinct”. This means that while a Moissanite can still be chipped, it is less prone to large breaks than diamond is.
Can moissanite get scratched?
Yes, but only by the rare things harder than it, like diamonds and certain abrasive cleaners. However, that’s about all that can scratch a moissanite! Most other gems and surfaces, such as sapphire or granite, are softer than Moissanite and cannot cause scratches. Because Moissanite is a 9.25 on the hardness scale, and diamond is a 10, diamond can scratch moissanite.
Moissanite vs Diamond, Price:
Overall, moissanite is a fraction of the cost of a diamond. Also, while a diamond’s price varies based on cut, clarity, and other individual characteristics, moissanite varies only with type and size. Below is a table comparing our pricing for a GIA-certified round diamond (with I-color and VS2 clarity), a classic moissanite stone (not colorless), a near-colorless moissanite stone, and Forever One colorless moissanite stone.
| Carat Size | GIA Certified Diamond (Round, I-color, VS2) | Classic Moissanite | Near Colorless Moissanite | Forever One Colorless Moissanite |
| .5 | $1,100+ | $89 | $243 | $269 |
| 1.0 | $4,000+ | $269 | $539 | $599 |
| 1.5 | $10,000+ | $449 | $945 | $1,049 |
Is Moissanite worth buying?
For those who want a big blingy look for a reasonable price, yes! Many of our customers choose Moissanite over diamond when they want a great ring look, but also want to buy a house. Moissanite is a great option for couples on a budget, those looking for a man-made option for sustainable reasons, or those who simply do not feel the need to spend a lot on a ring. We have thousands of very happy moissanite customers!
Moissanite engagement ring
Diamond vs Moissanite, The Conclusion:
While moissanite does not replicate the look of a diamond exactly, it is a beautiful, durable, white stone! So, it’s a viable option for those not wanting to purchase a diamond. Colored stones, like sapphires (which also come in white!), are beautiful options as well. As a result, there are many ways we can help couples create a stunning ring without paying for the higher cost of a diamond.
To pair an engagement ring with a moissanite, find your favorite engagement ring here, then choose “Pair with Moissanite.”
Can you help me choose between Diamond vs Moissanite?
Of course! Do Amore is proud to be knowledgeable in conflict-free diamonds, moissanite, and other stone options so please feel free to contact us with any questions. Feel free to ask for me personally (my name is Krish)!
The Best Diamond Alternatives in 2020
Looking for a sustainable diamond alternative for your engagement ring? You’re in good company. Many couples today are looking for something other than diamond to signify their bond. As a result, there’s a bunch of diamond alternatives to consider! Whether you want to ensure your gem is conflict-free, you want to spend less, or you just want to buck the norms, we’re here for ya. Read on to see what the newest and best diamond alternatives are in 2020!
What is a “Diamond Alternative”?
Well, it can mean different things to different people. In this post, we’re going to review white-colored gemstones that couples are using instead of natural mined diamonds. We think this will help couples that want a colorless look, without the mined diamond price. We have lots of couples that love this option! However, if you’re looking for something more colorful in your diamond alternative, there are also plenty of gemstone engagement ring options we love, too!
Left: Victoria with 7mm Cushion Moissanite | Middle: Mae with 8x6mm Oval Moissanite | Right: Elle with 9x6mm Pear Moissanite
The Best Colorless Diamond Alternatives of 2020:
All-Over Best: Lab Diamonds
Lab Created Diamonds are the newest (and best) alternative to a natural, mined diamond. And they’re gorgeous. This is because Lab Diamonds are actually the same mineral as natural mined diamonds. The only difference is that they were born in a lab instead of the ground.
So why is it the best “diamond alternative”? Looks, hardness, and price. Lab Created Diamonds have the exact same chemical makeup as mined diamonds (not true for any other diamond alternative). Both lab diamonds and mined diamonds are pure carbon, they sparkle exactly the same, and they have the same 10/10 hardness. The only way you can tell a Lab Grown Diamond from a mined Diamond is to have it gemologically tested! I mean, I’m not sure it gets any better than this, guys. You get a real diamond for 30-50% of the price of a natural, mined stone of the same quality.
Scientific Breakthrough: Lab Diamonds
Gone are the days that “synthetic diamonds” were off-color or highly included. New scientific breakthroughs have been made and Lab Diamonds are now white, eye clean, and indistinguishable from mined stones! Check out Do Amore’s extensive selection of ethical Lab Diamonds here.
Bottom line: Lab Diamonds
Man-Made Diamonds get you the exact look you want, and the price you would prefer to pay. They are the ultimate mined diamond alternative.
Two-tone Luna Engagement Ring with 2.2ct Lab-Created Diamond
Most Sparkly Diamond Alternative: Moissanite
For those looking for an even more blingy diamond alternative, Moissanite is a great pick. Because of its extreme “dispersion,” Moissanite sparkles even more than a diamond. And, it’s also incredibly hard at 9.25/10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. This means that it will stand up to daily wear very well (only surpassed by diamond)! Finally, Moissanite is only a fraction of the price of Lab Diamonds, making it very affordable.
Scientific Breakthrough: Moissanite
For those who may have had yellow-tint complaints about Moissanite in previous years, listen up! New advancements have been made, and gem scientists have created completely colorless Moissanite! I know! I was as shocked as you. Forever One Moissanite is as colorless as an E color diamond – and quite stunning – check out Do Amore’s wide range of it here.
Bottom line: Moissanite
Moissanite is a great diamond alternative. Those choosing Moissanite should expect sparkle that looks like fireworks (way more than diamond).
Diana Engagement Ring Set with an 8x6mm Oval Moissanite
Best Natural Alternative: White Sapphire
For those of you looking for a natural diamond alternative, White Sapphire is a great pick. This is because White Sapphire is natural, durable, beautiful, and super affordable! Sapphire is a 9/10 on the hardness scale. In other words, a White Sapphire will stand the test of time (and your daily life). It also comes in a range of shapes and sizes – and some can be pretty huge!
Bragging Rights: White Sapphire
One unique thing about White Sapphire is that, in addition to being natural, it is often not treated at all. What I mean by “treated” is that most Sapphire out there is heated before being cut, in order to improve its color and clarity. So, for those out there who are natural gem snobs (I can appreciate that), White Sapphire’s lack of heat treatment offers some serious bragging rights. And, who doesn’t want bragging rights in their engagement ring?!
Bottom line: White Sapphire
White Sapphire is the clear winner in terms of a natural diamond alternative. Those choosing White Sapphire should expect white sparkle only as compared with the white and colored sparkle diamond offers. Check out Do Amore’s White Sapphire collection here.
Custom Engagement Ring with 8x6mm Oval White Sapphire
Inexpensive Alternative: White Topaz
I would be remiss if I left out White Topaz! For those looking for serious value, White Topaz is the way to go. That is because Topaz is natural, durable, and incredibly inexpensive. With its cool grey-white sparkle, White Topaz offers a refined, elegant look. It also comes in some seriously big sizes, for those looking for a huge impact. White Topaz’s 8/10 hardness on the Mohs Hardness Scale additionally means that it avoids scratching pretty well. Couples choosing White Topaz should make sure to pick a protective setting, like a bezel, 6-prong, or halo to ensure it stays beautiful forever.
WHOA Value!: White Topaz
Adding a top AAA-quality one carat White Topaz to any of Do Amore’s ethical engagement ring settings will set you back less than $200! While White Topaz is not listed on Do Amore’s website, we have access to some of the most beautifully faceted top AAA-quality White Topaz in the world. If you want one, email us here. We’ll look through at least ten White Topaz of your chosen shape and size and choose the most beautiful for your ethical engagement ring.
Bottom line: White Topaz
Want a huge look for little money? White Topaz is the diamond alternative for you. However, make sure to set it in a protective setting. Those choosing White Topaz should expect grey-white sparkle, as compared with diamond’s white and colored sparkle.
Diamond Alternative Comparison Chart
Here’s a handy comparison chart. Don’t know which one to choose? That’s alright. Email us here and we’ll help!
| Look | Hardness | Price (1 carat Round) | |
| Lab Diamond | 100% Diamond! | 10/10 | $2,400 – $3,500 |
| Moissanite | More Sparkly Than Diamond | 9.25/10 | $599 |
| White Sapphire | All White Sparkle | 9/10 | $980 |
| White Topaz | White & Gray Sparkle | 8/10 | <$200 |
Can You Help Me Design the Best Diamond Alternative Engagement Ring?
Sure! The best way for me to help you get exactly what you want is for you to tell me what your priorities are. Why do you want a diamond alternative? Is it for sustainability reasons? Cost? Look? Send us a note here, or email me here (my name is Corinne) and tell me the story of your love! I will help you pick the perfect diamond alternative for your ring!
Quick Introductions: Meet Moissanite, The Non-Diamond
There’s a word buzzing around the ring world and it just might need to make it’s way to your lips. Moissanite. When shopping around for the perfect way to ask “Will you marry me?”, it’s time to consider a stone from the stars. You will not only change the life of your loved one when you slip this ring on their finger, but also the lives of someone in need!
Originally mistaken for an actual diamond, chemist Henri Moissan first encountered these crystals while, get this, examining rock samples from a meteor crater in the Canyon Diablo, Arizona in 1893. Yep, a meteor’s crater. Moissanite is a naturally occurring silicon carbide and in it’s natural form, rivals the rarity of diamonds.
Before the 1950’s there was no other source for these stones other than meteorites (I still can’t get over that). In 1958, moissanite was found the Green River Formation in Wyoming as well as in a diamond mine in Yakutia in 1959. Forever Brilliant Moissanite is 10% more brilliant than diamonds and reflects 2 times the light of diamonds, emeralds or sapphires! Not to mention it is nearly colorless, so it often times catches more stares and starts more conversations than diamonds.
Now that we’ve got a little history, take the time to check out our collection of moissanite, which, as you now know, was even mistaken for a diamond by a geologists, so it’s sure to pack the glimmer of diamonds while saving you a considerable amount of money. Wedding and engagement rings are simply symbols of your love. At Do Amore, we want your love to shine it’s brightest, and brighten the lives of those in need. With each ring purchase from Do Amore, your love amplifies, providing water for those in need!
Do Amore is one of the largest suppliers of Forever Brilliant Moissanite Rings.