While diamonds still dominate, moissanite is a rapidly growing choice, making up about 24-28% of the non-diamond center stone market, especially popular with Gen Z, though overall market share of all engagement rings remains smaller, around 10% of total rings feature non-diamond stones, with moissanite leading that group.
Moissanite is a beautiful gemstone that is very hard – a 9.25 on the hardness scale! So, just like a Diamond is forever, so too, is Moissanite. “Moissanite has become a popular choice for engagement rings.
The "3-month ring rule" is an outdated marketing tactic from the De Beers diamond company, suggesting you should spend the equivalent of three months' salary on an engagement ring to show commitment, a guideline that evolved from earlier one and two-month suggestions to boost diamond sales in the 1930s and 1980s. While it serves as a simple reference, it's not a real rule and ignores personal finances, with experts recommending basing the decision on affordability, shared goals, and individual preferences rather than this arbitrary financial benchmark.
Depending on the quality grade and the brand, a 1-carat moissanite can cost anywhere between $200 to $600. Are Moissanite and Lab Diamonds the same? No, both are different stones. Moissanites have a 9.5 rating on the Mohs scale, are made from silicon carbide, and offer a more colorful rainbow-like reflection.
Do Celebrities Wear Moissanite Jewelry? Yes, some celebrities do buy and wear moissanite, though it's not as common as diamonds in high-end celebrity jewelry. Moissanite jewelry has grown in popularity due to its affordability, brilliance, and ethical sourcing.
Quick Summary. Is Moissanite trashy? Absolutely not: Moissanite engagement rings are beautiful, durable, and sustainable alternatives to mined diamonds. Lab-created for consistency and quality, Moissanite ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale, offering impressive hardness and brilliant fire that often surpasses diamonds.
11 Most Popular Engagement Ring Trends for 2026
The simple answer is no, moissanite does not get cloudy. Unlike cubic zirconia, which may degrade or lose its clarity with prolonged wear, moissanite retains its optical properties indefinitely. Its structure is resistant to breaking down, ensuring it stays as stunning as the day you bought it.
Out of all the moissanite varieties, Forever One Colorless Moissanite is the most expensive. However, it is still considered a cost-effective alternative when compared to natural or lab-grown diamonds, as it is relatively more affordable.
Most moissanite stones will pass a traditional diamond tester due to their high thermal conductivity. However, slight variations in quality or size may affect the accuracy of the test. Advanced testing methods are necessary for reliable results across all moissanite samples.
Many couples using a conservative budget-friendly engagement ring will spend $1,000 to $3,000 for their perfect ring. The average engagement ring cost in the mid-range choice is $3,000 to $6,000. Those wishing for luxury or larger-carat and higher-quality diamond rings may spend $10,000 or more.
One of the things I shared was my “3-Rings” rule. It goes like this: When your phone rings, and it's a potential client who's calling you, the first three rings are on the house. BUT — if someone doesn't pick it up by the end of the third one, each additional ring costs your firm $1,000.
Moissanite looks a lot like a diamond, but it is not a "fake" diamond. Think of it like people who look very similar but are not related. These pairs are called doppelgangers.
Popular Carat Sizes for Moissanite Engagement Rings
The 1.0-carat and 1.5-carat options are particularly favored as they offer an optimal balance between aesthetic appeal and budget-friendliness, making them suitable choices for numerous couples.
Moissanite, a lab-created gemstone, has become an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings due to its numerous qualities that rival those of diamonds. Moissanite is known for its stunning brilliance and durability, making it a great choice for an engagement ring.
The brilliant cut is the most popular and classic choice for moissanite gemstones. It features a symmetrical pattern of triangular and kite-shaped facets, allowing for maximum light reflection and sparkle.
Can you pawn moissanite jewelry? Some pawn shops will accept moissanite jewelry, but it has the equivalent value of a diamond piece in different ways. Pawnshops base resale value on size, color, clarity, and overall appearance.
The Cons: It's just not a traditional diamond
If you're set on tradition, or you want a stone that holds resale value, moissanite might not be your first choice. While it's beautiful and durable, it doesn't carry the same prestige as diamonds, and some jewelers or jewelry lovers may not see it as a true equal.
Soap and water
Fill a bowl with water and mix in a few drops of dish soap. Place your moissanite jewelry in the suds mixture and let soak for up to five minutes. Use a toothbrush to clean any nooks and crannies. Rinse under cold water, then pat dry with a soft, clean cloth.
Moissanite is built to last a lifetime, equal to diamond in practical, everyday terms. Likewise, the stone maintains its brilliance and fire forever with simple care.
For around $5,000, you can typically find a natural diamond ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 carats, depending heavily on quality (the 4Cs), cut, setting cost, and if it's lab-grown, but a good quality 1-carat diamond often starts near this price point. A $5,000 budget could get you a significant stone like a 1-carat diamond or even larger lab-grown options, but quality factors (color, clarity) will significantly impact size and price.
A well-cut 2 carat diamond will sparkle more and typically appear larger than a poorly cut diamond of the same weight. Compared to smaller stones, a 2 carat diamond stands out due to its impressive size, making it an ideal choice for those looking to make a bold statement with their diamond ring.
Kate Middleton wears Princess Diana's iconic engagement ring, a 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds. Chosen by Diana in 1981, the ring was later given to Kate by Prince William in 2010 as a tribute to his mother, symbolizing love, legacy, and royal continuity.