Updated as of June 2026
Moissanite vs Diamond
| Moissanite | Diamond | |
|---|---|---|
| Price / carat | $200 to $800 | $1,000 to $15,000 |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9.25 | 10 |
| Color | Colorless, Near-colorless | Colorless, Yellow, Brown, Pink, Blue |
| Treatment | Lab-grown (not a treatment, fully synthetic) | Typically untreated |
The bottom line
Moissanite and Diamond both make beautiful jewelry. Choose by the look you want first, then weigh hardness against how hard you will wear the piece, and let price settle close calls. Read the full guides for Moissanite and Diamond.
Frequently asked questions
Is Moissanite or Diamond more durable?
Diamond is harder (Mohs 10 vs 9.25), so it resists scratches better.
Which is cheaper, Moissanite or Diamond?
Moissanite runs about $200 to $800 per carat and Diamond about $1,000 to $15,000 per carat, so Moissanite is usually the more affordable choice.
Which should I choose?
Pick Moissanite if you want colorless tones and Diamond if you prefer colorless. Match the stone hardness to how you will wear it and let budget break the tie.