If you’re deciding between a diamond and a moissanite for your next piece of jewelry, chances are you’ve already seen how similar they can look—especially to the untrained eye. But what about over time? How do they actually wear in the long run? Let’s break it down beyond the sparkle.
First, a quick refresher
Diamonds are naturally occurring (or lab-created) carbon crystals, known for being the hardest substance on Earth. Moissanite is a gemstone made of silicon carbide, first discovered in a meteor crater and now grown in labs. It’s not a diamond—but it definitely plays in the same league when it comes to looks.
Durability: Who lasts longer?
Diamonds win in raw hardness—they score a 10 on the Mohs scale, which means they’re extremely resistant to scratching. Moissanite comes in at 9.25, which is still very hard—harder than any other gemstone except diamond. So in daily wear, both hold up well, but diamonds are virtually scratch-proof. Moissanite, while durable, can still show tiny signs of wear over many years, especially if it’s worn every single day without care.
Sparkle check: Which one holds its shine?
Moissanite has a different type of brilliance than a diamond—it gives off more fire, meaning more rainbow-like flashes. Diamonds have more white light sparkle, which tends to be softer and more classic. Over time, both stones can get dirty and lose their sparkle if not cleaned regularly. But moissanite tends to show more of that “disco-ball” effect in certain lighting, which some people love and others find a bit too much.
Clarity and color aging
Both moissanites and diamonds are stable—meaning they won’t change color or fade over time. However, low-quality moissanite (especially older generations) can develop a slightly yellow or greenish tint under certain lights. Modern moissanites, especially premium ones like Forever One or Supernova, don’t have this issue. Diamonds, especially lab-grown ones, also remain stable, but untreated natural diamonds will always have a bit of uniqueness to their clarity and inclusions.
Everyday life: Scratches, knocks, and wear
Diamonds are more resistant to abrasions and chipping, especially if cut well and set properly. Moissanite, while durable, can chip if struck hard at the edges—especially in shapes like princess or marquise cuts. For rings, which take the most abuse, diamonds are slightly more “carefree” long-term. That said, most people don’t notice much difference unless they’re doing rough work or rarely take their jewelry off.
Maintenance and care
Moissanite is more prone to oil and dirt buildup, which can dull the sparkle faster. It tends to attract more grease from skin or lotion, so regular cleaning is a must. Diamonds get dirty too, but they usually hold their sparkle a little better between cleanings. Both can be cleaned at home with a soft brush and warm soapy water.
The price factor
This is where moissanite really shines. You can get a much larger, eye-clean stone for a fraction of the price of a diamond. If you’re someone who wants the look without the price tag—or if you're buying multiple pieces—moissanite can be a smart move.
The long-term verdict
If you’re after heirloom-level durability and tradition, diamonds are still the top pick. They’re unmatched in hardness, prestige, and resale value. But moissanite has carved out a serious place in the jewelry world. It’s long-lasting, stunning, and a no-compromise option for many modern buyers—especially when budget or ethics are top of mind.
Final word?
If you care for your moissanite properly, it’ll last you a lifetime. If you invest in a diamond, it’ll probably outlive you. Either way, you’re wearing something beautiful. It all comes down to what you value more: tradition, sparkle, price—or all of the above.