The comparison between moissanite and sapphire

Moissanite and sapphire are two stunning gemstones that are sought after by people all around the world. While both of these gemstones stand out for their unique brilliance, each one has its own set of properties and characteristics that set them apart. In this article, we'll take a closer look at moissanite and sapphire and compare them based on their appearance, durability, cost, and other factors.

Appearance:

Moissanite and sapphire differ significantly in their appearance. Moissanite is a diamond simulant that belongs to the silicon carbide family of gemstones. It is known for its fire, brilliance, and high refractive index. Moissanite has a rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it an incredibly durable gemstone that can withstand daily wear and tear without any damage.

Sapphire, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring gemstone that is composed of corundum. The most popular sapphire color is blue, but it can be found in various shades of pink, yellow, green, and even white. Sapphire has a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it an extremely durable gemstone. Sapphire is also known for its transparent clarity and high lustre.

Durability:

When it comes to durability, both moissanite and sapphire are among the hardest gemstones available. Moissanite has a rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, which is slightly harder than sapphire. Sapphire has a rating of 9, making it incredibly durable and ideal for daily wear. Both of these gemstones are scratch-resistant and can withstand everyday wear without getting damaged.

Cost:

In terms of cost, moissanite is significantly more affordable than sapphire. It is one of the most affordable diamond alternatives and is much less expensive than sapphire of comparable size and quality. This makes moissanite a popular choice for those who want a diamond-like look but don't want to spend a fortune. Sapphire, on the other hand, can be quite expensive, particularly for those that are of high-quality and come in desirable colors such as blue, pink, and yellow.

Color:

Sapphire is known for its blue color, which is caused by the presence of trace elements of iron and titanium. However, sapphire can be found in various colors, including pink, yellow, green, and white. These colors occur due to the presence of different trace elements in the gemstone. On the other hand, moissanite is usually colorless or near-colorless, and in rare cases, it can be found in shades of green, yellow or grey.

Brilliance:

Both moissanite and sapphire are known for their brilliance and high level of refraction. Moissanite is known for its remarkable fire, which is a term used to describe the rainbow-like flashes of light that are emitted from the gemstone. Sapphire, on the other hand, is known for its high lustre and transparency. The transparency of sapphire makes it ideal for faceting, which further enhances its brilliance.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, both moissanite and sapphire are exceptional gemstones that come with their own set of unique properties and characteristics. If you're on a budget and looking for a durable, diamond-like gemstone, then moissanite is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you're willing to splurge and want a naturally occurring gemstone that's available in a range of colors, then sapphire is an excellent choice. Whatever your choice, it's always essential to choose a gemstone that resonates with your unique style and preference.