Diamonds and gold aren’t the only gemstones you should be thinking about. There is an endless supply out there just waiting for someone like you with unique tastes or needs.  White Sapphire and Moissanite are two top contenders that are worth considering. Both these gems have some pretty compelling features that might sway even those most die-hard diamond fans into considering them instead. 

However, White Sapphire and Moissanite are very different. This article will explore some of these main differences, so you’ll know which one to go for based on your needs.

White Sapphire vs. Moissanite: What’s the Difference?

The third hardest mineral, after diamonds, is corundum which makes Sapphire.  White Sapphires can be found as either colorless or nearly pristinely clear. They have become a popular alternative to the classic gemstone for engagement rings -diamond. Although they lack much of diamond’s sparkle, they still maintain their beauty.

On the other hand, Moissanite is a durable gemstone that has been engineered to have many of the same qualities as diamond. It’s visually distinct from other gems in its characteristic fiery colors and high hardness rating at 925 on the Mohs scale compared to 10 on a diamond, making it perfect for everyday wear.

Both gems are white, durable, and are popular for engagement rings. So, White Sapphire vs. Moissanite: What’s the difference? 

Hardness 

While diamond remains the hardest gemstone, you can’t go wrong with either of these sparkling whites. Both White Sapphire and Moissanite rate highly on the Mohs Hardness Scale, with the former rating 9.0 and the latter at 9.5. 

Cost

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to diamond, White Sapphire and Moissanite will do, but between the two, White Sapphire is cheaper.

Here is a table comparing their average prices depending on carat size;

Carat Size	Diamond Cost	White Sapphire Cost	Moissanite Cost
0.50	$1,100	$430	$520
1.0	$4,000	$450	$600
1.5	$6,000	$800	$1,049

Appearance

While both Moissanite and White Sapphire appear colorless, the latter may have yellow tinges due to impurities. Moissanites do not attract dirt as easily and are less prone to scratches, whereas Sapphires will require regular cleaning to maintain their appearance over time. 

Regarding the sparkle, Moissanite boasts a higher refraction index of 2.65 and fire 0.0104 compared to White Sapphire’s 1.77 refraction index and 0.018 fire.

White Sapphire vs. Moissanite: Which is Better?

Moissanite is a rare and powerful gemstone that can outlast most gems, but it’s also not as common. White Sapphire has traditionally been the more popular choice for engagement rings since they have similar colorations to diamond while being much cheaper than Moissanite. 

However, they’re beaten by their crystal-clear counterparts in terms of durability and appearance. Moissanite’s high quality makes them worth every penny you pay.

 If you’re looking for an earthy, natural gem that’s just as rare, too, then go with White Sapphire. Its natural origins make it the best option for those who want an authentic diamond alternative. Not only does it grow in Earth’s crust, but it also has an authentic white color, unlike Moissanite, which is a lab product.

White Sapphires are a great alternative to diamonds for those who want something different. However, if you’re looking for the sparkle of a diamond and its quality without paying the high price tag, Moissanite is your best bet.  It has higher refraction and index than White Sapphire and more fire.

Also Read: How to Tell if a Ring Is Too Big