Choosing the right gemstone for an engagement ring is likely the most important jewelry decision you will ever make. It’s likely also one of the most expensive decisions you’ll ever make. However, there are several more affordable alternatives to diamonds nowadays, giving you a lot more options for a truly spectacular ring.
A top comparison among engagement rings is that of morganite vs. moissanite. Let's look at the difference between morganite and moissanite so we can help you decide which one is best for that special someone in your life.
Morganite vs. Moissanite: Where Do They Come From?
Morganite doesn't come from the same place as moissanite. A morganite stone is a natural gemstone, while moissanite is sustainably grown in a laboratory. Although moissanite was originally discovered as a natural gemstone when it was first found in a meteor crater, it doesn't occur naturally in large enough quantities to produce jewelry.
Both moissanite vs. morganite are real gemstones because of their chemical composition and crystal structure, so don't be fooled into thinking that moissanite is "fake". However, being that it’s produced in a laboratory, moissanite is a more ethically sourced choice. It doesn't have the same concerns as diamonds, which require mining that harms the environment and uses profits to fund conflicts in war zones.
Similar to diamonds, morganite is a natural gemstone that requires mining. It’s a member of the colorful beryl family of gemstones, which also includes emeralds, aquamarine, and golden beryl. Morganite was first discovered in Madagascar, but now it commonly comes from Brazil.
Morganite vs Moissanite
Morganite is a diamond simulant that closely resembles a pink diamond. Moissanite appears very similar to a diamond but exhibits more significant fire. Its exceptional hardness and colorless nature make it a compelling alternative to diamonds.
Moissanite
Because moissanite is a lab-grown gemstone, it is produced under controlled conditions that allow for a truly optimal stone. Here are the benefits of choosing moissanite vs. morganite:
Clarity
Color
Durability
Morganite
What is morganite? It gets its name from the famous business tycoon J.P. Morgan, who was a gemstone enthusiast. It’s one of the more unique alternatives to diamonds in engagement rings, because it doesn't really look like a diamond at all thanks to its blush-colored hue.
Is morganite expensive? As with all gemstones, its price is dependent on the four C’s: color, clarity, cut, and carat. However, if you're comparing morganite price vs. diamond price, morganite is certainly the more affordable option.
Clarity
Color
Durability
Which is Best for an Engagement Ring?
Which one is best depends on preference. Whichever one you think is best is the choice for you. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide between a diamond, morganite and moissanite ring for your special someone:
Moissanite vs. Morganite
- Moissanite is more durable and generally has greater clarity
- Morganite has a delicate pink to peach color range, making it a unique and non-traditional choice
- Morganite is the slightly less expensive option, but moissanite is more similar to a diamond
Morganite vs. Diamond
- Morganite is a colored gemstone (pinkish hues) while a diamond is a colorless stone
- Morganite is significantly less expensive than diamond
- Diamonds are a more traditional choice for an engagement ring
