When it comes to buying an engagement ring, many people don’t think beyond the traditional mined diamond. However, there are numerous other options available, including lab-grown diamonds and moissanite. Both of these choices have their own unique benefits, so it’s important to understand the differences between the two before making a decision.

Lab-Grown Diamonds: The Lowdown

Lab-grown diamonds are, as the name suggests, diamonds that have been created in a lab environment. While they are not natural diamonds, they are chemically identical to diamonds that have been mined from the earth. This means that they boast the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, but without the environmental or ethical impact of mining.

Moissanite: The Lowdown

Moissanite is an alternative to diamonds that has grown in popularity over the years. It is made of silicon carbide and features similar aesthetic qualities to diamonds, such as the colorless, sparkly appearance. Moissanite has become a go-to alternative for prime-time marriage proposals as it costs far less than diamonds and yet as we said sparkling just like them.

So which one, then, should you choose? The choice between lab-grown diamonds and moissanite ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. Here are some key factors that can help you decide.

Budget

One of the most significant factors to consider when choosing between lab-grown diamonds and moissanite is your budget. Lab-grown diamonds can be less expensive than mined diamonds, but they are still a relatively high-priced engagement ring option. For those on a strict budget, moissanite can be a more affordable option, providing a diamond-like appearance at a fraction of the cost.

Durability

Diamonds are known to be the hardest known natural substance and rank a 10 on Mohs Scale of Hardness. Moissanite, comparatively, is only at 9.25; however, it is still considered extremely hard and therefore highly durable for daily use. From this point of view, both lab-grown diamonds and moissanite are solid choices concerning durability.

Aesthetics

When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, aesthetics is always a key consideration. The luminosity of a diamond will, of course, look different from that of a moissanite. Diamonds have a unique brilliance, which causes light to sparkle and shimmer more brilliantly than any other gemstone, including moissanite, making them unbeatable in their aesthetics. However, one advantage that moissanite has over lab-grown diamonds is that they don’t attract dirt or oil, so they typically look cleaner and shinier for longer periods of time.

Ethics

The ethics of a diamond’s origin know to mean a lot to many people who want to feel good about stepping in a lifetime engagement bond. Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical and environmentally responsible choice since they don’t require mining and don’t carry the risk of being connected with conflict diamonds. Though Moissanite is not a conflict gem, they are extracted by high impact mining using techniques such as open-pit mining that can create environmental hazards.

Choosing between lab-grown diamonds and moissanite depends entirely on your priorities and budget. If you are seeking a more budget-friendly option, then Moissanite is an excellent choice as it offers the same diamond’s look, sparkling, and durability but for less. Then the lab-grown diamond is the best if you are prioritizing ethical concerns, durability, and the appearance of a mined diamond but with a lower price point.

It’s important to have a conversation with your significant other about your needs, priorities, and budgets – getting that out, in the beginning, can save a lot of time and drama in the future. Ultimately, what matters most is choosing an engagement ring that you both love and that represents the start of a beautiful and happy life together.