If you're in the market for a white gemstone, you may be wondering whether to choose a white sapphire or moissanite. Both stones are beautiful and have their unique benefits. Here's a closer look at white sapphire vs moissanite so you can decide which stone is right for you.
What Is White Sapphire?
White sapphire is a variety of the mineral corundum. It's chemically composed of aluminum oxide and has a Mohs hardness of 9.0, making it one of the hardest minerals on earth. White sapphire is typically translucent to opaque with a vitreous luster. The stone can range in color from colorless to yellow, green, or gray.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a silicon carbide crystal first discovered in 1893 by Henri Moissan. The stone has a Mohs hardness of 9.5, making it even harder than a white sapphire. Moissanite typically has a vitreous to near-diamond luster and ranges in color from colorless to yellow or gray. Here's a quick guide to all aspects about grey moissanite!
White Sapphire Vs Moissanite: Key Differences
Here, we'll outline the key differences between these two stones to help you decide.
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Spark
In terms of sparkle, both stones compare favorably to diamonds. Moissanite has more fire than diamonds, while white sapphire has more brilliance. So if you're looking for a stone with lots of sparkles, either would be a good choice.
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Costs
Regarding price, white sapphire is more affordable—but moissanite is still less expensive than diamonds. So if you're looking for an affordable diamond alternative, either stone would be a good choice.
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Hardness
White sapphires have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, while moissanite has a hardness of 9.25. This makes moissanite slightly more resistant to scratching and wear. However, both stones are still quite hard and durable, so this difference is not significant enough to be a dealbreaker either way.
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Appearance
In terms of appearance, white sapphire and moissanite are both beautiful, but they have some subtle differences. White sapphire is typically translucent to opaque, while moissanite is usually closer to being transparent. Additionally, white sapphire can range in color from colorless to yellow, green, or gray. On the other hand, moissanite is typically colorless but can also be yellow or gray.
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Durability
Finally, let's compare the durability of these two stones. As we mentioned, white sapphire and moissanite are quite hard and durable. However, moissanite is slightly more resistant to scratching and wear, making it more durable.
The Pros And Cons Of White Sapphire And Moissanite
Both gemstones are often used in engagement rings and other fine jewelry. But what are the pros and cons of each? Let's take a closer look.
Pros And Cons Of White Sapphire
- The main pro of white sapphire is that it is less expensive than diamond while still being very durable.
- Sapphires can range in price from $25 per carat to $500 per carat, depending on quality, whereas diamonds typically start at $1,000 per carat.
- Sapphires are also not as well-known as diamonds, so they can be a good choice for someone who wants a unique engagement ring.
The main con of white sapphire is that it lacks the fire or brilliance of the diamond. Sapphires also tend to have more inclusions (flaws) than diamonds, so finding one without any visible imperfections can be difficult.
Pros And Cons Of Moissanite
- The main pro of moissanite is its price point; because it is manufactured, it tends to be much less expensive than diamond or sapphire.
- Moissanite costs about 10% of the price of diamonds.
- Moissanite is also sparkly; some say it has more fire than diamond.
The main con of moissanite is that some people consider it "fake" because it is artificial. It also may not be as brilliant over time as a diamond; however, this has not been proven and would likely only happen after years of wear and tear. Also look at is moissanite tacky!
Which One Should You Choose?
It comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the look of white sapphire, while others prefer moissanite. If you're looking for a hard, durable stone with lots of sparkles, either one would be a great choice— but if you're looking for an affordable alternative to diamonds, moissanite may be the better option.
If we had to choose one over the other, we would give moissanite the edge thanks to its superior hardness and resistance to scratching. Whichever stone you choose, you can rest assured knowing that you've made a wise investment that will last for years to come!
How To Take Care Of Your Perfect Gemstone?
Finally, after the white sapphire vs. moissanite comparison, you just got a new gemstone and want to ensure it stays perfect forever. Here are some tips on taking care of your gemstone to stay in pristine condition.
- Keep your gemstone away from harsh chemicals. Harsh chemicals can damage the surface of your gemstone, making it dull and less reflective.
- Don't expose your gemstone to heat. Heat can damage the integrity of your gemstone, causing it to crack or break.
- Be careful not to drop your gemstone. Although most gemstones are durable, they can still chip or crack if dropped on a hard surface.
- Clean your gemstone regularly. Dirt and oil can build up on the surface of your gemstone, making it look dull. To clean your gemstone, use a soft cloth and mild soap to wipe away any dirt or oil buildup gently.
- Store your gemstone properly. When you're not, store your gemstone in a soft cloth or padded jewelry box to keep it safe from scratches.
- Take your gemstone to a professional jeweler for inspection. It's always a good idea to have your gemstone checked by a professional jeweler.
Final Words
So, both gems have their unique benefits and drawbacks that set them apart from one another. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference – what looks best on you and what fits within your budget.
If you're still undecided about which gemstone to choose for your engagement ring, consider moissanite! It's a beautiful, affordable diamond alternative you will enjoy for years. Finally look at how to keep your engagement ring from spinning!
