Differences Among Gemstones: Natural Diamonds, Lab Grown Diamonds, Moissanite, and Zircon
August 21,2024
Diamonds have long captivated people with their unique charm and value in the jewelry market. However, with technological advancements, not only traditional natural diamonds but also lab grown diamonds, moissanite, and zircon have emerged. Understanding the differences among these gemstones is crucial for consumers when choosing jewelry. This article will explore the distinctions between these four types of gems to help consumers make informed decisions.
Natural Diamonds
As the name suggests, natural diamonds are formed in nature. They crystallize from carbon under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth’s crust over billions of years. Natural diamonds are renowned for their hardness, brilliance, and high refractive index, earning them the title of “King of Gems.”
The value of natural diamonds mainly depends on their quality, which includes color, clarity, cut, and carat weight (the “4Cs”). Colorless or nearly colorless diamonds are the most sought-after and command the highest prices. The limited supply of high-quality natural diamonds, particularly those of exceptional quality, makes them very expensive.
Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds are created in laboratories by mimicking the natural diamond formation process. They are virtually identical to natural diamonds in physical properties, making them difficult to distinguish with the naked eye or basic instruments. Lab grown diamonds are also graded using the same “4Cs” standards as natural diamonds but are priced significantly lower for equivalent quality.
The primary methods for producing lab grown diamonds are High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). These methods can produce large quantities of high-quality diamonds in a short time, meeting market demand. Lab grown diamonds have disrupted the monopoly of natural diamonds and provided consumers with more choices.
Moissanite
Moissanite is a gemstone that closely resembles diamonds but has a different chemical composition. Composed mainly of silicon carbide, moissanite shares similar physical properties with diamonds, such as high hardness, brilliance, and a high refractive index. However, due to its different chemical makeup and internal structure, it has some distinct characteristics.
The term “moissanite” is derived from Dr. Henri Moissan, who discovered this mineral in a meteor crater in Arizona in 1904. Natural moissanite is extremely rare and is mostly found in meteorite craters, typically in dark green or black colors. Hence, most moissanite on the market is synthetic.
Moissanite’s appearance can be distinguished from diamonds under close inspection. Its refractive index (2.65-2.69) is higher than that of diamonds (2.417), and its dispersion (0.104) is significantly greater than diamonds (0.044), giving moissanite a more pronounced sparkle. With a Mohs hardness of 9.25, it is slightly softer than diamonds (10).
Moissanite is relatively affordable but visually very similar to diamonds, making it a popular diamond substitute. Therefore, consumers should carefully identify whether the gemstone is moissanite or diamond when purchasing jewelry.
Zircon
Zircon can resemble diamonds in appearance, but it has distinct differences in chemical composition and physical properties. Zircon has a lower hardness and is more prone to scratching. Additionally, its refractive index is lower, and it does not exhibit the same brilliance as diamonds.
Zircon’s chemical formula is ZrSiO₄, with a hardness of 7.5 and a density between 4.6 and 4.8. It has a high refractive index and dispersion, giving zircon a unique sparkle under light that differs from diamonds.
Zircon can be natural or synthetic. Synthetic zircon is commonly used in jewelry manufacturing and industrial applications due to its lower cost. While it is often used in mid-range and lower-end jewelry, some unscrupulous sellers may try to pass off zircon as diamonds, so consumers need to be cautious and discerning.
Understanding the differences among natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds, moissanite, and zircon is essential for making informed decisions when purchasing jewelry. Each gemstone offers unique qualities, advantages, and price points, catering to different consumer preferences and budgets. By recognizing these differences, consumers can select the gemstone that best meets their needs and desires.