Moissanite vs. White Sapphire: Difference, Pros, Cons

Table Of Contents

Introduction
What is White Sapphire?
What is Moissanite?
How are White Sapphire and Moissanite Different?
Pros of White Sapphire
Cons of White Sapphire
Pros of Moissanite
Cons of Moissanite
Is white sapphire or moissanite better?
Conclusion

Introduction

If you are seeking the perfect gemstone for your engagement ring but find the cost of diamonds to be too high, consider moissanite and white sapphire. Moissanite and white sapphire are two fascinating gemstones, each with its own characteristics, and they cost much less than diamonds while also being highly durable. Now, you may be faced with another question: between white sapphire and moissanite, which one should you choose, and what are the differences between them? This article will help us understand these two gemstones together.

What is White Sapphire?

White sapphire, also known as colorless sapphire, is a type of sapphire. The main component of sapphire is aluminum oxide (Al2O3). When sapphire contains trace elements such as Cr, Fe, Ti, and Ni, it appears in colors like yellow, orange-red, and purple. If it does not contain any other trace elements, it will appear colorless and transparent, which is what we call white sapphire.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is another name for silicon carbide. Natural moissanite is extremely rare, and most moissanite jewelry on the market is made from lab moissanite. Because of its highly similar appearance to diamonds and its high durability, moissanite is also considered to be the best alternative to diamonds, which is why moissanite engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular.

How are White Sapphire and Moissanite Different?

Data sources Wikipedia

Hardness: White sapphire has a Mohs hardness of 9, which is in the corundum category, making it a very durable gemstone. Moissanite has a Mohs hardness of 9.25, second only to diamond, making it the second hardest gemstone in the world with very high durability.

Appearance: Moissanite exhibits more brilliance and fire than white sapphire. This is mainly because moissanite has a higher refractive index and dispersion than white sapphire, which is why moissanite is sometimes mistaken for diamond.

Price: Both moissanite and white sapphire are much cheaper than diamonds. When comparing the two, moissanite's price should be slightly higher. However, the factors affecting the price are not only the carat value but also the overall quality of the gemstone.

Pros of White Sapphire

• It is a relatively rare type of sapphire.
• It is a popular gemstone with special significance.
• High hardness and strong durability.
• More affordable compared to moissanite.

Cons of White Sapphire

• Low fire, not as dazzling.
• Lower hardness compared to moissanite, more prone to damage.

Pros of Moissanite

• Very similar to diamond.
• High hardness, second only to diamond, strong durability.
• High fire, even more brilliant than diamond.
• Lab-created, environmentally friendly.
• Lower price compared to diamond, allowing for a larger size within the same budget.

Cons of Moissanite

• Relatively expensive compared to white sapphire.
• Lower investment value.

Is white sapphire or moissanite better?

When you ask this question, it indicates that you actually have the same level of preference for both of them. From an objective point of view, the quality of natural white sapphire may not be as stable as moissanite because moissanite is synthetically produced, making it easier to control the quality. Therefore, buying moissanite may be a more reliable choice.

Conclusion

moissanite and white sapphire each have their own characteristics, suitable for different needs and budgets. If you want an affordable and beautiful gemstone, moissanite may be a good choice; if you are looking for uniqueness and preciousness, white sapphire is a better choice. Whichever gemstone you choose, it can showcase your personality and taste in different occasions.