Moissanite vs white sapphire: which is better?
For sparkle, moissanite wins easily: its refractive index (about 2.65) and fire (dispersion 0.104) are far higher than white sapphire's (1.76 and 0.018), so white sapphire looks glassier and less lively. Both are hard enough for daily wear (moissanite 9.25, sapphire 9). Choose white sapphire for a soft, understated glow; choose moissanite if you want the look of a diamond.
Brilliance and fire
Brilliance comes from refractive index and fire from dispersion. White sapphire's are the lowest of the common diamond alternatives, so it returns less light and almost no rainbow. Moissanite has the most fire of any of them, more than diamond.
Upkeep
White sapphire shows grease films quickly and loses its sparkle between cleanings; moissanite and diamond hide them better. Both clean easily with warm soapy water.
Price
Lab white sapphire and moissanite are both inexpensive. Natural white sapphire costs more, without looking better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does white sapphire look like diamond?
From a distance, a little. Close up it looks glassier, because it bends and splits light far less than diamond or moissanite.
Keep reading
Amazon links are affiliate links (tag thegemtray-20): buying through them costs you nothing extra and supports the site. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.