Choosing a perfect gemstone among multiple profound and alluring options has always been a daunting task for gem enthusiasts. When two gemstones with commendable and equal potential, similar characteristics, and head-to-head market value are placed together, even the most experienced aficionado of the gemstone field will be baffled to choose the perfect gem for himself.
White sapphire aka Safed Pukhraj and Moissanite aka the best substitute for diamond are two of the most revered gemstones that are subjected to constant comparison by prominent astrologers and gemstone lovers across the world. While the white sapphire belongs to the corundum mineral family and gets its white color because of its different chemical composition, moissanite is a lab-created diamond-like gemstone. However, the predominant question still prevails; which gemstone is better: white sapphire or moissanite? This comprehensive blog post will explore all the aspects on multiple levels and help you decide whether white sapphire is a superior gemstone or moissanite.
Table of Contents
White Sapphire vs Moissanite: Origin
White sapphires are a variety of the mineral corundum. They are naturally occurring gemstones, though they can also be created synthetically in labs. Sapphires are typically associated with their blue color, but they come in various shades, including white (colorless). White sapphires are found in natural deposits in countries like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Madagascar, and Thailand.
Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral, but it is extremely rare in nature. It was first discovered in a meteor crater by the French chemist Henri Moissan in 1893. Due to its rarity, nearly all moissanite available on the market today is lab-created. Lab-created moissanite is made from silicon carbide and is renowned for its brilliance and fire, often used as a diamond substitute in jewelry.
Read Worthy: – White Gemstone Names
White Sapphire vs Moissanite: Color
White Sapphire:
White sapphires are known for their pure, colorless appearance, similar to that of a diamond.The color of a white sapphire can range from completely colorless to very faint tints of blue, yellow, or gray.
The color of a white sapphire is often described as “icy” or “crisp” in appearance.The color of white sapphires is generally considered more consistent and uniform compared to moissanite.
Moissanite:
Moissanite has a unique, slightly different color appearance compared to a diamond or white sapphire. Moissanite can appear slightly warmer in tone, with a subtle hint of yellow, gray, or even a slightly greenish tint.
The color of moissanite can vary depending on the specific cut and quality of the gemstone. Higher-quality moissanite is typically less colored and closer to a true colorless appearance.
White Sapphire vs Moissanite: Physical Properties
Hardness
White Sapphire: Ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it extremely durable and resistant to scratches.
Moissanite: Slightly harder than sapphire, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale, offering exceptional durability.
Refractive Index (RI)
White Sapphire: Lower RI of 1.77, resulting in less brilliance and fire compared to moissanite.
Moissanite: High RI of 2.65-2.69, producing exceptional brilliance and fire, often mistaken for diamond.
Dispersion (Fire)
White Sapphire: Low dispersion, resulting in minimal color play (rainbow effect).
Moissanite: High dispersion, producing a strong rainbow effect, similar to diamond.
Clarity
White Sapphire: Often contains inclusions or blemishes, affecting clarity.
Moissanite: Typically exhibits high clarity with fewer inclusions, appearing cleaner.
Don’t Miss: – Lab Grown Sapphires
White Sapphire vs Moissanite: Price Comparison
White Sapphire
Price Range: White sapphires are generally more affordable than moissanite and diamonds. The price per carat can range from $50 to $500, depending on factors like quality, size, and origin.
Factors Affecting Price: The quality of the stone, including clarity, cut, and color, as well as whether it is natural or synthetic, will affect the price.
Moissanite
Price Range: Moissanite is more expensive than white sapphire but still cheaper than diamonds. The price per carat for moissanite can range from $300 to $600.
Factors Affecting Price: The size, color grade, and whether the stone is branded (like Charles & Colvard moissanite) influence the price. Larger, colorless, or near-colorless stones command higher prices.
Also Read: – Different Types of Sapphires
White Sapphire vs Moissanite: Astrological Benefits
Astrological benefits can be an important consideration when choosing between white sapphire and moissanite. Here’s a comparison of the astrological properties associated with these two gemstones:
White Sapphire:
White sapphire is traditionally associated with the planet Saturn and the zodiac sign of Aquarius.
In astrology, white sapphire is believed to promote qualities like clarity of mind, focus, discipline, and responsibility.
It is thought to help with self-reflection, problem-solving, and maintaining emotional balance.
White sapphire is often recommended for those born under the Aquarius zodiac sign or those seeking to harness the energy of the planet Saturn.
Moissanite:
Moissanite is associated with the planet Venus and the zodiac signs of Taurus and Libra.
In astrology, moissanite is believed to enhance qualities like love, beauty, harmony, and balance.
It is thought to promote self-love, relationships, and appreciation for the finer things in life.
Moissanite is often recommended for those born under the Taurus or Libra zodiac signs or those seeking to connect with the energy of the planet Venus.
Check Out: – White Sapphire Stone Benefits
