White Sapphire (Safed Pukhraj) and Moissanite are both incredible colourless gemstones that look very similar to diamonds (Heera). This is why they are often confused as well. Since diamonds are extremely expensive, these gems are frequently used to replace them to make jewellery.
But all three of these, diamonds vs moissanite vs white sapphire, are entirely different gemstones. These clear stones are distinct from their chemical composition and formation to hardness and attributes.
In this blog, we have discussed Moissanite vs white sapphire difference to help you distinguish these gems. This guide will also help you discern them with diamonds. And choose a clear gem for yourself.
Moissanite vs White Sapphire - Definition & Physical Properties
Both of these crystal clear gemstones are the best options as an alternative to diamonds. They are shiny, widely available and have good hardness, making them an excellent possible substitute. But which one should you go for? Which one will be better out of these? Let’s find out and start by understanding about their core properties.
Major Difference - White Sapphires are natural gemstones that are naturally formed on Earth, while Moissanite is a lab-grown gem. It was discovered by a chemist from France named Henri Moissan in 1893. This gem will rarely be found in nature.
Now, let's discuss the physical properties of these two gems along with diamond to compare these three:
Moissanite vs White Sapphire vs Diamond - Physical Properties
Specifications
| Diamond
| White Sapphire
| Moissanite
|
Occurrence
| Natural
| Natural
| Lab-grown
|
Chemical Composition
| Single element carbon - repeating pattern
| Aluminium Oxide Al2O3 + Fe,Ti,Cr
| Silicon Carbide - SiC
|
Crystal System
| Cubic
| Trigonal
| Hexagonal
|
Hardness
| 10 on Mohs scale
| 09
| 09.25 to 09.5
|
Specific Gravity
| 3.52±0.01
| 3.95 to 4.03
| 3.218-3.22
|
Refractive Index
| 2.418 (at 500 nm)
| 1.762 – 1.770(DR)
| 2.654
|
Density
| 3.5–3.53 g/cm3
| 3.95-4.03 g/cm3
| 3.21 Average
|
Colour
| They are generally colourless, but can also be found in blue, pink, purple, yellow, red, etc.
| Colourless sometimes has a tint of black, white, green or brown.
| Colorless, Blue, Green, Yellow, Purple, Etc.
|
The lab-grown gemstones are clearer than sapphires white, more transparent and effectively shiny, so they are exact replicas of diamonds.
Moissanite Vs White Sapphire Cost
Is sapphire more expensive than moissanite?
Well, both of these gems are available widely, so there is not much difference in the price range. However, White sapphire vs diamond prices have differences. Original heera is rare and so very expensive.
Original White Sapphire price ranges between INR 2,000 to 70,000 per carat based on the quality of the gem.
Moissanite price ranges between INR 1200 to 40,000 per carat. The finer the clarity, the more valuable it will be.
![White Sapphire vs Moissanite](https://cdn.shopaccino.com/jewellery/images/white-sapphire-vs-moissanite-829001.jpg)
Moissanite Vs Sapphire Hardness
Diamond is the hardest material on Earth, with a 10 on the Mohs scale. Nothing can be more durable, but Mossianite and sapphire white are also relatively durable and tough gemstones.
Natural Safed Pukhraj has a hardness of 09 on the Mohs scale, which means it is a fair, tough gem-like ruby.
On the other hand, Moissanite has a hardness of 09.25 to 9.5, which is also very durable. It is nearly as tough as the Heera.
So, as per the hardness, you can choose any gem that will last you for your lifetime.
White Sapphire vs Moissanite - Significance
The gemstones are believed to be powerful and have potent energies. In history, they have traditional values and symbolism. Astrologically, each gem is connected with a particular planet and brings its blessings to you.
White sapphire vs diamond astrology is the same since both these gems are ruled by the planet Venus. So wearing them will bring you grace, beauty, luxury, feminine energies, romance and pleasure. However, diamonds are one of the Navratans and are believed to be more powerful than the original Safed Pukhraj. These Sapphires will heighten your intuition powers, bring mental clarity and expand your imagination.
There are many benefits of Moissanites as well. Its energies are said to make one happy. It will enhance one's optimistic side. Indeed, it will increase their artistic and creative qualities and help the wearer be more active and lively.
Moissanite or White Sapphire - Which One is Better?
As mentioned above, Moissanite vs white sapphire for engagement rings are equally good and can be worn daily. In appearance, Moissanites are clearer and look exactly like Heera. Though they are lab-grown. It is believed that only naturally found gemstones from the earth have metaphysical and healing powers.
So if you also want the astrological benefits along with elegance,
Safed Pukhraj is better for you. However, the lab-made gem is perfect if you only want the ring or jewellery for fashion purposes.
Conclusion
Choosing which is better, moissanite or white sapphire? It depends on your budget, preferences, tastes, beliefs, and values. You can select one of them as per your need, but we advise you to make sure that whichever gem you go for is authentic and not fake. For that, buy the gem from a reputable retailer like Navratan.com, which provides a lab certification with every gem.