Does Moissanite Have More Fire Than Diamonds?

Historically, the use of natural diamonds in a yellow gold setting has typically been the norm for engaged couples. However, as the truth behind mined diamonds comes to light and the drive for individuality continues, other gemstones are starting to become increasingly popular. For many couples who like the traditional look of a natural diamond but don't want a mined diamond, Moissanite engagement rings as an alternative are steadily on the rise. In this article we will specifically look at Moissanite vs Diamond engagement rings in terms of fire, so you can make an informed decision when the time comes to purchase your ring.

Closeup of Moissanite ring

What is Fire in the Diamond Industry and How Is It Measured?

When considering engagement rings, moissanite jewelry or other pieces of diamond jewelry, many people are drawn to the sparkle and fire of the gemstones. Fire within both diamonds and Moissanite is measured differently and is based on how much light is reflected from each stone. With a diamond, fire comes from the dispersion of white light, which creates a rainbow of colors seen in the sparkling facets. Moissanite has different optical physics that cause its fire to appear more like flashes of light than reflections of color. The amount of fire can be enhanced or diminished with proper settings in engagement rings and other diamond jewelry.

What is Moissanite, and How Does it Compare to Diamonds in Terms of Fire?

Moissanite is a gemstone created from silicon carbide, which is a synthetic version of the rare mineral natural Moissanite, named after French scientist Henri Moissan in 1893. Moissanite is known for being extremely durable, making it a great option if you’re striving for something beautiful and lasting. While Moissanite rings look just like a diamond to the untrained eye, there are some stark differences between the two precious stones. Most notably, Moissanite has more fire and brilliance than diamonds.


The Moissanite gemstone produces vivid flashes of fire that are often compared to diamond sparkle, but with even more rainbow color. While the spectrum of colors may not be as intense as a diamond’s, there are certain lighting conditions where Moissanite can outshine diamonds in terms of fire. Because of its higher refractive index—the amount of time it takes for light to travel within an object—Moissanite can both scatter light better than diamonds and make colors appear brighter. Additionally, Moissanite has a higher thermal conductivity rating than diamonds because of its unique internal structure, making Moissanite a great choice for those looking for extra sparkle when choosing an engagement ring. In addition, Moissanite gems feature multiple colors which are captured within its gemstone. The amount of fire in a Moissanite stone can often surpass that of a colorless diamond, as Moissanite stones are able to reflect more than twice as much light as a diamond of comparable size. When making your decision between Moissanite vs diamond based on price - considering the fact a Moissanite stone costs significantly less - a Moissanite diamond may be an ideal choice if you’re looking for a bright and high quality gemstone at a fraction of the cost.

Closeup of Moissanite engagement ring

Should You Buy a Moissanite Engagement Ring or a Diamond Engagement Ring?

When it comes to engagement rings, two popular choices for customers are diamonds and Moissanite. Both stones have their advantages, however they differ in terms of fire and brilliance. Moissanite generally has a more brilliant sheen with a higher degree of fire, whereas diamonds tend to be known for their precise sparkle and glitter. While purchasing an engagement ring is ultimately a personal decision, there is some worthwhile advice when comparing the two: Moissanite tends to be much less expensive than diamonds while still having impressive fire and brilliance. Therefore, if you want the most “bang for your buck” without sacrificing beauty and sparkle, a Moissanite ring may be the ideal choice. No matter which gemstone you choose in the end, a beautiful ring is sure to bring both you and your significant other joy for many years to come!

Pros and Cons of Diamond vs. Moissanite Engagement Rings

Deciding which stone to use for an engagement ring is a big decision, as each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Diamonds and Moissanite are two gemstones that have been popular choices for decades, but differ from one another in terms of fire and brilliance. In terms of fire, diamonds tend to host a higher number of flashes: 58 compared to Moissanite's 8 - 10 in comparison. However, Moissanite may appear flashier due to its prismatic effect. One quick glance at the Mohs scale reveals that Diamonds surpasses any other gemstone on the scale when it comes to durability - with a rating of 10 - whereas Moissanite ranks 9.25-9.50, making it a perfect alternative while still offering considerable hardness and scratch protection!

4 moissanite ring on a hand

 

When shopping for a special engagement ring, both Diamonds and Moissanite provide an exquisite setting that many couples cherish. While both options possess their own unique beauty, there are pros and cons to each. If a couple is hoping to add fire to an engagement ring, they should consider the difference between Diamond fire and Moissanite fire. Diamonds generally display more sparkle and radiance that can be seen from further away, but some couples prefer the deeper brilliance of Moissanite. From durability to cost-effectiveness, diamonds and Moissanite offer different benefits depending on personal preferences.

How to Make the Best Decision for You

Trying to decide between a Moissanite and a Diamond for an engagement ring can be daunting, as there is lots to consider. So how do you know which one will be the best decision for you? When considering your options of purchasing an engagement ring, it's important to understand the composition and properties of each gemstone. A Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that has been gaining traction in recent years due to its affordability, durability, and stunning fire. On the other hand, diamonds have always been the go-to gemstone for wedding rings due to their traditional symbolism and timeless beauty. So if you are willing to pay more in exchange for extra sparkle, then choosing a diamond may be the best choice for you. However, all factors need to be taken into account before making such an important decision. Any reputable jeweler should help guide you through discussions about both options so don’t hesitate to ask questions when researching!


In conclusion, the fire of Diamonds and lab created Diamonds such as Moissanite have been compared in this article, showing that Moissanite has a higher optical effect. However, when it comes to buying an engagement ring, neither diamonds or Moissanite are the definitive answer. It ultimately depends on the couple and their budget, as each stone brings along a unique list of benefits and drawbacks that need to be carefully weighed before making a final decision. After all, engagement rings represent the ultimate expression of love between two individuals. It is recommended to explore both options and learn more about each gemstone before making a choice.  If you are looking for expert advice on which gemstone is right for you, contact us today to get started!

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