Morganite vs. Moissanite: Which Gemstone is the Better Choice for an Engagement Ring?

If you‘re shopping for an engagement ring, you may be considering popular alternatives like morganite and moissanite rather than traditional diamonds. But how do you decide between these two gorgeous gemstones? There are a number of factors to weigh.

In this detailed guide, we directly compare morganite and moissanite across the criteria that matter most – color, brilliance, price, durability, and more. Whether you prefer soft pink morganite or ultra-brilliant moissanite, you‘ll have all the information you need to pick the perfect gemstone for your engagement ring.

At a Glance: Morganite vs. Moissanite

Before getting into the details, here are the key differences between morganite and moissanite:

As you can see, moissanite tends to exceed morganite in durability and diamond-like optical performance. But morganite offers a uniquely soft pink color not found in colorless moissanite.

Now let‘s do a deeper dive into each factor so you can determine which gemstone is right for you!

Comparing the Natural Origins and Sources

One important consideration when selecting any gemstone is where it comes from. Here‘s an overview of morganite and moissanite origins:

Morganite

• Found in nature like other precious gemstones
• Mined primarily in Brazil but also Namibia, Afghanistan, Madagascar, and other sites
• Named after financier J.P. Morgan who was an early investor in Madagascar mines
• Discovered in 1910 and considered a relatively rare find
• New deposits still being uncovered, ensuring steady supply

Moissanite

• Almost exclusively lab-created through thermal growing processes
• Natural moissanite is extremely rare – found in certain meteor craters
• Discovered in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan (hence the name)
• Manufactured in facilities in the U.S., China, India, and other countries

In summary, morganite comes from traditional gemstone mines while today‘s moissanite is manufactured in laboratories. This affects price, availability, and ethics:

• Price: Synthetic moissanite costs less than natural mined morganite per carat
• Supply: Moissanite labs can produce large quantities while morganite depends on finite mining deposits
• Ethics: Moissanite production has no environmental or labor concerns while some morganite mines may have questionable practices

So moissanite wins when it comes to ethical sourcing and reliable availability. But some buyers still prefer natural gems from the earth like morganite.

Moissanite Vs. Morganite: How Prices Compare

Price is often the most important factor for engagement rings. Here‘s how morganite and moissanite stack up based on average per-carat prices:

• Morganite: $300 to $500 per carat on average
• Moissanite: $500 to $1000+ per carat on average

However, larger sizes and certain cuts can increase the price for both gem types. For example, cushion and emerald cuts are more prized for morganite.

According to RareCarat‘s 2021 Jewelry & Engagement Study, morganite engagement rings cost an average of $2,083 while moissanite rings averaged $3,027 based on consumer data.

So across the board for equivalent sizes and qualities, morganite rings tend to cost 20-50% less than moissanite engagement rings on average.

This allows buyers to potentially get a larger morganite gemstone while staying within budget. But moissanite‘s incredible brilliance and durability come at a higher price point closer to diamonds.

Appearance: Morganite Vs. Moissanite Color, Clarity, and Sparkle

When it comes to aesthetics, these two gems take very different approaches:

Color

• Morganite: Subtle range from light pink to salmon/peach hues
• Moissanite: Colorless, near-colorless, or faint yellowish similar to diamonds

Morganite‘s soft pinkish tones are highly unique and beautiful in engagement rings. Moissanite offers a more traditional diamond-white appearance.

While pure morganite is hue-less, traces of manganese create appealing pinks and oranges. Moissanite can occasionally have a slight yellowish tint but modern cuts maximize colorlessness.

Clarity

• Morganite: More inclusions typically present since it‘s mined
• Moissanite: Very high clarity with almost no imperfections

As a natural gemstone, morganite frequently has small internal flaws and inclusions visible under inspection. Moissanite produced in labs has exceptional clarity rivaling or exceeding diamond standards.

Brilliance

• Morganite: Reflects light well with good brilliance
• Moissanite: Unmatched brilliance and fire exceeding even diamonds

Moissanite‘s refractive index of 2.65 compared to 2.42 for diamonds produces unparalleled rainbow sparkle. Morganite shines beautifully too but simply can‘t match moissanite‘s dazzling fire.

Here‘s a visual example comparing the brilliance of oval moissanite vs. morganite:

Image source: Charles & Colvard

So in summary, those desiring soft pink hues will love morganite while buyers wanting maximum fire and brilliance similar to colorless diamonds can‘t surpass moissanite. It comes down to personal color preference versus optical performance.

Morganite vs Moissanite Durability Comparison

Durability is essential for rings worn daily. Here‘s how morganite and moissanite stack up:

• Hardness: Moissanite rates 9.5 on the Mohs scale. Morganite is 7.5. Diamonds are 10.
• Toughness: Moissanite is extremely resilient. Morganite is susceptible to chipping from sharp blows.
• Wearability: Moissanite can handle regular wear. Morganite requires gentle care.

The Mohs scale measures scratch resistance while toughness indicates overall structural integrity. By both measures, moissanite is far superior and closer to diamond hardness.

For lifelong wear, moissanite is the best choice. Morganite needs some special care like:

• Removing ring for physical activities, chores, etc.
• Storing separately from other jewelry
• Avoiding sharp impacts that could chip the stone

Durability does vary based on setting style too. Halo settings add protection to softer gems.

Overall moissanite is the clear winner for carefree, daily wear. But with reasonable precautions, morganite can last in rings receiving lighter use.

How Cuts Impact Beauty and Brilliance

The precise cutting of a gemstone greatly impacts its optical performance. Here are the optimal cuts for morganite and moissanite:

Best Cuts for Morganite

• Oval
• Cushion
• Emerald
• Round

Oval and cushion maximizes morganite‘s soft pink color appeal. Deep cuts can make the gem appear too dark.

Best Cuts for Moissanite

• Round brilliant
• Cushion
• Princess
• Asscher
• Emerald
• Radiant

With its exceptional brilliance, moissanite looks amazing in almost any shape. Round and cushion create the most sparkle.

No matter the gem, the best cuts balance total depth percentage with strong facets to optimize light return and beauty.

Ethical Sourcing

Responsible and sustainable sourcing is extremely important in jewelry today. Here is how morganite and moissanite compare:

Morganite Mining

• Some mines have faced concerns over working conditions and environmental practices
• But many morganite miners are now adopting fair labor policies with proper waste disposal and community involvement
• Choosing small-scale, artisanal mining cooperatives is ideal for responsible sourcing

Moissanite Production

• Primarily lab-created so no environmental or labor issues
• Manufacturing facilities have transparency and ethical standards
• Some moissanite suppliers use recycled metals for settings

So moissanite has the edge when it comes to ethics and sustainability. But consumers can also find responsibly mined morganite through jewelry vendors with strict sourcing policies.

The safest bet is asking directly about where and how any gemstone was obtained, and choosing designers committed to making ethical jewelry.

Key Factors When Deciding Between Morganite vs Moissanite

When deciding between these great alternatives for your engagement ring, keep these factors in mind:

• Color preference: Do you want soft pink or colorless white hues?
• Level of sparkle desired: Morganite has good brilliance while moissanite is unmatched.
• Durability needs: Moissanite is tougher for daily wear while morganite needs some protection.
• Budget: Morganite gives you more size for the price.
• Responsible sourcing: Moissanite has the edge but ethical morganite is also available.

Here‘s a quick summary of the key pros and cons:

Which is Better for an Engagement Ring – Morganite or Moissanite?

At the end of the day, the best gemstone is one that matches your personal style, lifestyle and budget.

For a durable, ethical alternative with unmatched diamond-like brilliance, moissanite is ideal. The high fire and light performance justify the higher price for an engagement ring meant to be worn every day.

Morganite is perfect for those wanting soft pink hues and a larger gem size. Morganite makes a delicate, feminine statement best for occasional wear. Protecting the ring will ensure it lasts a lifetime.

The most important tip is visiting a quality local jeweler to view these stones in person before you decide.

As your trusted friend, I‘m advising you to think carefully about your choice. An engagement ring should perfectly embody you and your relationship. With this detailed guide comparing all aspects of moissanite vs. morganite, I know you‘ll pick the gemstone of your dreams!

Wishing you all the best with your engagement ring shopping and upcoming proposal!