FAQs
Astrology & Zodiac
Can Aries wear moissanite?
Yes, Aries can absolutely wear moissanite. It's considered an excellent, affordable alternative to diamond and a modern April birthstone choice that suits the fiery, confident nature of Aries. Its brilliance and durability make it a stylish, long-lasting option for everyday wear.
Is moissanite good for Aries?
Yes, moissanite is considered an excellent gemstone for Aries. As a modern, ethical alternative to diamond — the traditional April birthstone — it aligns with the fiery, energetic, and bold nature of the Aries sign, making it both astrologically fitting and practically ideal.
Which zodiac signs can wear moissanite?
Moissanite is suitable for all zodiac signs. It's especially beneficial for those looking to strengthen a weak or imbalanced Venus placement. While often linked with Aries as an April birthstone alternative, its cosmic origin makes it a versatile choice for any sign seeking positive energy, balance, and improved relationships.
Can Aquarius wear moissanite?
Yes, Aquarius can absolutely wear moissanite. Its brilliance and modern, ethical origins align with the independent and forward-thinking nature of Aquarius. Astrologically, moissanite is also considered beneficial for Gemini, Libra, and Pisces alongside Aquarius.
Can Scorpio wear moissanite?
Yes, Scorpios can wear moissanite without hesitation. While traditional Scorpio stones include topaz and opal, moissanite is a versatile, modern, and durable option suitable for fashion and zodiac-themed jewelry alike. It's often recommended for enhancing Venus-related energy with no negative effects.
Comparisons (vs Diamond / CZ)
Which is better — zirconia or moissanite?
Moissanite is generally considered superior to cubic zirconia (CZ) for daily wear and engagement rings. It's far more durable, brilliant, and long-lasting. While CZ is cheaper upfront, it scratches, clouds, and dulls over time. Moissanite is built to last a lifetime; CZ is better suited for affordable fashion jewelry.
Is moissanite better than cubic zirconia?
Yes, moissanite is significantly better than cubic zirconia in terms of durability, brilliance, and longevity. CZ is cheaper upfront but prone to scratching and cloudiness over time. Moissanite, nearly as hard as diamond, maintains its sparkle and structure for a lifetime of daily wear.
Is moissanite nicer than cubic zirconia?
Yes, moissanite is widely considered nicer than cubic zirconia in durability, brilliance, and overall quality. CZ is cheaper but dulls and scratches over time, while moissanite retains its sparkle and structure for years, making it a far better investment for everyday jewelry.
Does moissanite or CZ look more real?
Moissanite generally looks more like a real diamond than cubic zirconia. It has a higher refractive index, superior durability, and maintains its brilliance over time — whereas CZ often becomes cloudy. While both are lab-created, moissanite offers better fire and hardness, whereas CZ can appear too clear or glassy.
Does moissanite look better than cubic zirconia?
Yes, moissanite is widely considered to look better and last longer than cubic zirconia. With superior brilliance, intense fire (rainbow flashes), and a 9.25 Mohs hardness, it stays clear and vibrant. CZ, in contrast, has a more glassy appearance and can become cloudy or scratched within months.
What's more expensive — moissanite or cubic zirconia?
Moissanite is significantly more expensive than cubic zirconia. A 1-carat moissanite typically costs $300–$600+, while a 1-carat CZ is usually under $30. However, moissanite's superior durability and brilliance make it a much better long-term value compared to CZ, which can dull over time.
Is zirconia more expensive than moissanite?
No, cubic zirconia is not more expensive than moissanite — it's considerably cheaper. Moissanite is a higher-quality, more durable, and more brilliant gemstone, which reflects in its higher price. CZ is mass-produced and commonly used in budget-friendly or costume jewelry.
Which is more valuable — CZ or moissanite?
Moissanite is more valuable than cubic zirconia. It's harder (9.25 on the Mohs scale), maintains its brilliance over time, and holds up far better for daily wear. CZ is much cheaper — often under $20 per carat versus $300–$600 for moissanite — but carries no meaningful resale value.
Pricing & Value
How much is 1 carat of moissanite worth?
A 1-carat moissanite stone typically costs between $200 and $800, depending on brand, quality, and cut. High-quality, colorless 1-carat stones usually fall in the $300–$600 range — significantly more affordable than comparable lab-grown diamonds, which can exceed $1,500.
How much is 2 carats of moissanite worth?
A 2-carat moissanite stone or ring generally ranges from $200 to $1,500+, depending on the seller, quality, and setting. Loose high-quality stones often cost $200–$400, while branded or professionally set 2-carat rings in 14k gold typically range from $800 to $1,300 or more.
How much should a 3-carat moissanite cost?
A 3-carat moissanite stone typically costs between $1,000 and $3,000. High-quality, colorless stones usually fall in the $1,200–$2,200 range. Full ring prices vary based on setting, metal quality, and vendor, but a 3-carat moissanite ring generally starts around $1,200 and can exceed $3,000.
Is a 2-carat moissanite good?
Yes, a 2-carat moissanite is an excellent choice for a statement ring that's both durable and affordable. It's widely considered a "sweet spot" for size — offering great finger coverage without being overly bulky. Rated 9.25 on the Mohs scale, it's perfect for daily wear with stunning brilliance.
Is moissanite still worth money?
Moissanite offers excellent value in terms of quality and beauty at a fraction of diamond's cost, but it is not considered a strong financial investment for resale. As a lab-created stone with improving production technology, its market value tends to depreciate over time.
Does moissanite hold value?
Moissanite generally has little to no resale value and should not be treated as an investment. As a mass-produced, lab-created gemstone with declining production costs, it depreciates significantly on the secondhand market compared to its original retail price.
Does moissanite have secondhand value?
Moissanite does have some secondhand value, but it tends to be low. While high-quality stones may retain up to 50% of their value, resale is often limited to the value of the metal setting, as the market for pre-owned lab-created gemstones remains small.
Is moissanite a waste of money?
Moissanite is generally considered a smart, high-value purchase — not a waste of money. For those seeking a durable, ethical, and budget-friendly alternative to diamond, it delivers excellent quality. With a 9.25 Mohs hardness rating, it's extremely durable and well-suited for daily wear.
Client Care
How long will it take to craft my jewellery?
All our jewellery is made to order and is usually ready in 4-6 weeks. Our collection ranges from moissanite and gemstones, each crafted to perfection.
What if I need help placing an order through your website?
If you need help selecting from our range of jewellery collection, please contact us here. Our experienced team will assist you.
What type of warranty do I receive?
Franc Laurent offers a one-year warranty on all our products (subject to terms and conditions), ensuring peace of mind to all our customers.
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes! At Franc Laurent, we offer free international shipping on all orders £250 and above. Shop online and add your chosen piece to your shopping bag with ease.
How are import duties & taxes handled?
Most of our orders are sent as DDP (Delivery Duty Paid - this means import duties & taxes are covered). However, there may be cases where you may have to pay local import taxes and duties, which Franc Laurent does not cover, as some countries do not allow us to pay them as the sender.
What financing options are available?
We offer financing to UK customers through PayPal and Klarna at checkout.
For most international customers, financing option is available through Klarna.
MOISSANITE AND GEMSTONES:
Is moissanite worth buying?
Moissanite is a brilliant choice for those seeking an alternative to a natural or lab diamond engagement ring. It offers the same level of clarity and is graded to ensure top quality.
Can moissanite pass diamond tester?
Yes. Due to its similar properties to diamonds (both lab grown and mined or natural diamond rings), moissanite can pass a diamond tester. However, our specialised equipment can distinguish between moissanite and diamonds, ensuring you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Is moissanite the best fake diamond?
Moissanite is not a fake diamond but a gemstone that offers stunning lab grown beauty. It's perfect for those looking for the same level of sparkle and clarity found in diamonds, but at a more accessible price point.
Do moissanite rings look fake?
No, moissanite rings are crafted to exhibit a sparkle that, to the naked eye, is akin to that of diamonds. They offer timeless beauty and are an aesthetically identical choice for those who admire the appearance of mined diamonds.
Does moissanite lose its sparkle?
Moissanite retains its sparkle indefinitely, much like the mined or lab grown diamonds. Its clarity and carat weight remain intact, ensuring a lifetime of brilliance.
Explain the gemstones used in your jewellery?
All gemstones used in our jewellery are natural and are ethically sourced. Franc Laurent ensures that only high-quality gemstones are used and each of them contain their own inherent uniqueness that will only belong to you.
Do you provide certificate for the gemstones?
Yes! Franc Laurent provides a certificate for the gemstone(s) used in our jewellery which may include details such as origin, weight (carat), treatment, measurements (mm), colour and cut.
Is moissanite fake looking?
Moissanite is not generally considered "fake looking" — it's a distinct, high-quality gemstone with unique optical properties. While commonly used as a diamond alternative, it actually delivers more brilliance and fire (colorful flashes) than diamonds. In smaller sizes, it's nearly impossible to distinguish from a diamond with the naked eye.
How do I know if my moissanite is real?
Look for intense, rainbow-colored sparkle (fire) under light, and use a jeweler's loupe to check for double refraction — a visible doubling of the back facets. Authentic moissanite will pass a diamond tester but may show a "white" or "fail" reading on basic testers due to its electrical conductivity.
Is moissanite trashy?
Not at all. Moissanite is a stunning, durable, and ethically lab-created gemstone widely regarded as a sophisticated alternative to diamonds. It's highly prized for its exceptional brilliance and fire, which often surpasses that of diamonds, offering intense, rainbow-like sparkle.
Is moissanite cringe?
No, moissanite is not considered cringe. It's widely recognized as a beautiful, durable, and ethical diamond alternative. With a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, it's built for daily wear and often outshines diamonds in brilliance — all at a fraction of the cost.
Is moissanite for poor people?
No, moissanite is not exclusively for any income group. It's a popular, high-quality gemstone chosen by people at all income levels who want a durable, eco-friendly, and more affordable alternative to diamonds. Even celebrities choose it for its superior brilliance and ethical production — despite costing 60–90% less than mined diamonds.
Is moissanite good jewelry?
Yes, moissanite is an excellent jewelry choice — especially for everyday pieces like engagement rings. It's highly durable (9.25–9.5 on the Mohs scale), brilliantly sparkly, affordable, and eco-friendly. Its intense rainbow sparkle and resistance to scratching and chipping make it a top-tier option.
Is moissanite as good as diamond?
Moissanite is an excellent, durable, and highly brilliant alternative to diamond — often considered the smarter choice for budget-conscious buyers. While slightly less hard (9.25 vs. 10 on the Mohs scale), it's perfectly suited for daily wear, offers similar longevity, and even surpasses diamonds in fire and brilliance at a fraction of the cost.
Is moissanite a fake diamond?
No, moissanite is not a fake diamond. It's a distinct gemstone made of silicon carbide with its own unique properties. While it's a popular, cost-effective diamond alternative, it has a higher refractive index than diamond, producing more fire and rainbow-colored sparkle.
Is moissanite a real diamond?
No, moissanite is not a real diamond. Diamonds are pure carbon, while moissanite is silicon carbide — a different material entirely. It's a largely lab-created gemstone with distinct optical properties, including more rainbow fire, and is slightly less hard than diamond, making it a widely loved and affordable alternative.
Is it embarrassing to wear moissanite?
Not at all. Moissanite is increasingly worn with confidence and pride. It's widely regarded as a popular, ethical, and beautiful alternative to diamonds — chosen by many not just for its affordability, but for its stunning appearance and responsible sourcing.
Is moissanite considered a fake diamond?
No. Moissanite is a distinct, durable gemstone — not a fake diamond. Made from silicon carbide, it has its own unique properties, including a higher refractive index than diamond and more rainbow fire. It's a different material entirely, not an imitation.
Is moissanite good for daily wear?
Yes, moissanite is one of the best gemstones for daily wear. Rated 9.25 on the Mohs scale, it resists scratches and abrasions with ease. Its high brilliance also means it stays sparkly even when exposed to everyday oils, making it ideal for rings and other frequently worn pieces.
What are the downsides to moissanite?
Moissanite's main downsides include a potential "oil slick" residue that requires occasional cleaning, a high rainbow dispersion that some find too flashy (the "disco ball" effect), and limited resale value. It's also slightly less hard than diamond (9.25 vs. 10 Mohs) and is almost exclusively lab-created rather than naturally occurring.
What are the cons of buying moissanite?
The key cons of buying moissanite include low resale value, a high-sparkle "disco ball" effect that some find less subtle than diamonds, and the possibility of developing an oil-slick film over time. It's also sometimes perceived as a diamond substitute rather than appreciated as its own unique, ethical gemstone.
Does moissanite last forever?
Yes, moissanite is designed to last a lifetime. With a hardness of 9.25–9.5 on the Mohs scale, it's highly scratch-resistant and will not fade, yellow, or cloud permanently. With proper care, it maintains its brilliance for generations and can even be passed down as a treasured heirloom.
Why is moissanite so cheap?
Moissanite is affordable primarily because it's lab-created in consistent, high-quality quantities rather than mined — eliminating the significant costs tied to mining and supply scarcity. Its accessible production process, combined with minimal marketing overhead, allows it to be priced as a durable, brilliant, and budget-friendly alternative.
Is moissanite good for everyday wear?
Yes, moissanite is one of the best diamond alternatives for everyday use. Rated 9.25 on the Mohs scale, it's highly scratch-resistant, stays clear over time, and maintains exceptional brilliance — making it a reliable and beautiful choice for rings, earrings, and pendants worn daily.
Can moissanite be worn every day?
Absolutely. Moissanite is one of the most durable gemstones available for jewelry, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale. It's scratch-resistant, won't cloud or lose brilliance over time, and holds up beautifully under daily use — making it a top choice for engagement rings and everyday accessories.
Can a jeweler tell if it's moissanite?
Yes, a skilled jeweler or gemologist can identify moissanite using specialized tools. While it closely resembles a diamond to the naked eye, professionals use loupes, microscopes, and advanced testers that measure electrical conductivity to detect its characteristic double refraction.
What is stronger than moissanite?
Diamond is the most well-known gemstone that exceeds moissanite in hardness. While moissanite is exceptionally durable at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, diamond remains the hardest known natural material at 10, making it the primary stone that outranks moissanite in strength.