The Quick Answer
Moissanite earrings deliver more fire and brilliance at a fraction of the cost, with near-diamond durability and guaranteed ethical sourcing. Diamond earrings provide timeless luxury, universal recognition, and potential investment value, though you'll pay significantly more for these benefits.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| D VVS1 Moissanite | Diamond | |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkle & Fire | More rainbow flashes, 2.65-2.69 refractive index | Classic white light, 2.42 refractive index |
| Price (1ct total) | $800-1,500 AUD | $8,000-25,000+ AUD |
| Hardness | 9.25 Mohs (extremely durable) | 10 Mohs (hardest natural material) |
| Recognition | Most people can't tell the difference | Universally recognised luxury |
| Ethics | 100% lab-created, zero mining | Depends on sourcing |
| Resale Value | Minimal | Retains some value |
What Your Eyes Actually See
Moissanite's higher refractive index (2.65-2.69 vs diamond's 2.42) creates more rainbow flashes and dramatic light reflection, whilst diamonds offer pure white sparkle with subtle fire that performs consistently across all lighting.
When viewed with the naked eye, moissanite and diamond earrings look remarkably similar, and most people won't spot the difference without a jeweller's loupe.
Durability and Care
Both materials are more than tough enough for earrings since they sit protected on your earlobes rather than exposed to daily impacts. Moissanite at 9.25 Mohs is harder than sapphire and ruby, requires simple soap and water cleaning, and stays cleaner longer because it resists oil buildup. Diamonds at 10 Mohs offer ultimate hardness but attract oils more readily and need professional cleaning every six months to maintain optimal sparkle.
Ethics and Value
Moissanite is 100% lab-created with zero mining impact and a completely traceable supply chain, making it ethical by design. Diamond ethics vary dramatically by source, with natural stones potentially involving environmental and labour concerns, though Kimberley Process certification and lab-grown options provide ethical alternatives at higher costs than moissanite.
Moissanite has minimal resale value, though you pay far less upfront. Diamonds retain some value over time and offer family heirloom potential with recognised worth across generations.
Making Your Choice
Choose Moissanite If: Maximum sparkle for your budget matters most, ethical sourcing is non-negotiable, you want larger stones without massive investment, or saving money beats traditional status symbols.
Choose Diamonds If: Traditional luxury and universal recognition matter, investment potential is important, you prefer subtle classic sparkle over rainbow fire, or family heirloom quality is a consideration.
Common Questions
Will people know they're not diamonds?
Most people can't tell the difference, and moissanite often gets more compliments due to extra sparkle.
Do moissanite earrings hold value?
No, but since you pay much less upfront, the total financial impact is often better.
Will moissanite get cloudy?
No, moissanite maintains its brilliance throughout your lifetime without degradation.
Can I mix both?
Absolutely. Many people wear both depending on occasion and preference.
The decision comes down to your personal values and budget. If you want maximum sparkle, ethical certainty, and significant savings, moissanite delivers brilliantly. If traditional luxury, recognition, and investment value matter most, diamonds justify their premium. Both choices are completely valid.
View our collection of Moissanite Stud Earrings, thanks for reading!
Jared & Brie
