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White Sapphire vs. Moissanite
Jul 10, 2024, IceTreasure.com / Janar Kirn
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"When considering diamond alternatives, white sapphire and moissanite stand out as top choices. Ice Treasure offers both options, each with distinct characteristics that make them desirable. But how do you decide which is better for you? In this guide, we'll delve into the pros and cons of both stones, helping you make an informed decision when selecting your perfect piece from Ice Treasure."


1. What is Moissanite?

Natural moissanite, discovered by Dr. Henri Moissan in 1893, is extremely rare and costly. Most moissanite available today is lab-created, composed of silicon carbide (SiC) and produced under controlled conditions. Moissanite boasts a high refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69, with a noticeable double refractivity and adamantine luster. Its specific gravity is 3.22.


Pros of Moissanite at Ice Treasure


  • Affordability. Moissanite offers exceptional brilliance at a lower price than diamonds.
  • Durability. With a Mohs rating of 9.25, moissanite is highly scratch-resistant and durable.
  • Fire & Brilliance. Known for its stunning sparkle, moissanite has the highest brilliance of any gemstone.
  • Eco-friendly. As a lab-created stone, moissanite is a sustainable and ethical choice.
  • Availability: Ice Treasure offers moissanite in a wide range of colors, sizes, and qualities to suit any budget.
  • Versatility. Moissanite can be crafted into various jewelry pieces, from engagement rings to earrings, offering flexibility in design.



2. Cons of Moissanite


  • Appearance. Its intense sparkle might be too much for some, preferring the subtler look of white sapphire.

  • Rarity. As a lab-created stone, moissanite lacks the rarity and exclusivity of natural gemstones.

  • Resale Value. Moissanite generally has a lower resale value compared to diamonds and natural precious stones.

  • Heat Sensitivity. Moissanite can be sensitive to extreme heat, which might affect its color and integrity over time.



3. Understanding White Sapphire
White sapphire is a colorless variety of sapphire, part of the corundum mineral family. Corundum, composed of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), is found in various rock types. Elements like iron, titanium, and chromium impart color to sapphires. Notable sources include India, Myanmar, Russia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. With a refractive index of 1.762 to 1.770, white sapphire has a vitreous luster and a specific gravity of 4.00.

Pros of White Sapphire at Ice Treasure


  • Durability. Scoring 9 on the Mohs scale, white sapphire is highly durable, perfect for various cuts and settings.
  • Prestige. As part of the "Big 3" (sapphires, rubies, emeralds), white sapphire is a prestigious choice, often commanding higher prices.

  • Affordable Diamond Alternative. White sapphire offers a cost-effective alternative to diamonds, available in various cuts and sizes at Ice Treasure.
  • Natural Beauty. As a naturally occurring stone, white sapphire has unique characteristics that synthetic stones can't replicate.

  • Versatility: White sapphire can be crafted into various jewelry pieces, from rings to necklaces, enhancing its appeal.


4. Cons of White Sapphire

  • Color. White sapphires may have a murky or yellowish hue and lower brilliance compared to diamonds and moissanite.

  • Brilliance. They lack the fire and sparkle of moissanite and diamonds, becoming more apparent in larger stones.

  • Look-alikes. White sapphires can be mistaken for less expensive stones like quartz, goshenite, and white topaz.

  • Heat Treatment. Most white sapphires undergo heat treatment to enhance their color, which might not appeal to purists.


5. White Sapphire vs Moissanite

  • Hardness. Both are durable, with moissanite (9.25) slightly harder than white sapphire (9) on the Mohs scale.

  • Composition. Moissanite is silicon carbide, while white sapphire is aluminum oxide.

  • Appearance. Both are colorless, but moissanite has higher brilliance. White sapphire may appear duller and have a yellowish tint.

  • Clarity. Both stones can have inclusions, but moissanite typically has fewer visible inclusions under magnification.

  • Price. Prices vary, but moissanite often offers more brilliance and benefits, sometimes commanding higher prices due to demand.

  • Heat Sensitivity. Moissanite can be more sensitive to extreme heat compared to white sapphire.


6. Choosing Between White Sapphire and Moissanite

  • Budget. Both stones offer cost-effective alternatives to diamonds, with prices influenced by size, quality, and demand.

  • Appearance. For those seeking high sparkle, moissanite is the better choice. White sapphire offers a subtler look.

  • Durability. Both are suitable for everyday wear, but moissanite is slightly more durable.

  • Ethical Concerns. Moissanite is an eco-friendly, lab-created option, while white sapphire is a natural stone, potentially sourced ethically.

  • Availability. Both are readily available at Ice Treasure, with options to fit various preferences and budgets.

  • Heat Sensitivity. Consider moissanite's sensitivity to heat if the jewelry piece will be exposed to high temperatures regularly.



7. White Sapphire and Moissanite


Are white sapphires more expensive than moissanite?


Prices depend on carat and quality, but moissanite's popularity can make it pricier.

Which stone is more brilliant?


Moissanite has higher brilliance and sparkle compared to white sapphire.

Is moissanite an ethical choice?


Yes, moissanite is lab-created, avoiding the environmental impact of mining. Verify the origin of natural stones for conflict-free assurance.

Are both stones scratch-resistant?


Yes, both are highly durable, with moissanite being slightly more scratch-resistant.

Does heat affect these stones?


Moissanite can be more sensitive to extreme heat, which might impact its color and integrity over time.


8. Conclusions
Choosing between white sapphire and moissanite from Ice Treasure depends on personal preference, budget, and values. White sapphire offers a natural, prestigious option with subtle beauty, while moissanite provides exceptional brilliance, affordability, and ethical benefits. Both make excellent diamond alternatives, catering to different tastes and priorities.
Janar Kirn

Janar Kirn, from Tallinn, Estonia, is a distinguished entrepreneur and a co-founder of Ice Treasure. With a career spanning since 2017, Janar has made significant strides in the jewelry industry, founding his first brand from the ground up.

Over the years, he has amassed extensive knowledge in the field, becoming a respected educator and jewelry specialist in Scandinavia. Known for his deep passion and expertise, Janar is dedicated to sharing his insights and experiences with others through this platform.

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