If you’ve started shopping for an engagement ring recently, you’ve likely encountered the term “moissanite.” Once a hidden secret, moissanite has exploded in popularity across the USA, UK, and Canada. Why? Because it offers the brilliance of a diamond without the staggering cost.
But navigating this market comes with questions. How much should you pay? Can you get financing? Is it covered by insurance? And where is the best company to buy online?
We’ve analyzed the latest trends, dug into customer reviews, and consulted industry experts to bring you the definitive guide to moissanite engagement rings. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to maximize your budget while securing a ring that lasts a lifetime.
What is Moissanite? The “Space Gem” Explained
Before diving into prices, it’s essential to understand what makes this stone unique. Moissanite is a gemstone born from the stars. It was first discovered in a meteor crater by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Dr. Henri Moissan. Naturally occurring moissanite is incredibly rare, so today, all moissanite used in jewelry is lab-created .
This is not a “fake diamond.” It’s a distinct gemstone (Silicon Carbide) with its own incredible properties:
- Hardness: 9.25 on the Mohs scale (Diamonds are a 10). This makes it extremely durable for everyday wear, resistant to scratching and chipping .
- Brilliance: Moissanite has a higher refractive index than a diamond (2.65–2.69 vs. 2.42). This means it actually sparkles more than a diamond, reflecting light with a fiery, rainbow-like display .
Moissanite vs. Diamond: The Price Breakdown
The most significant factor driving couples toward moissanite is the price. If you want a high-end look without the five-figure bill, moissanite is the winner.
Here is a realistic cost comparison based on current market averages for a 1-carat equivalent (round, near-colorless) center stone set in 14K white gold :
| Option | Average Price (Center Stone + Setting) | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Mined Diamond | $5,500–$7,000 | Traditional, high resale value, ethical concerns. |
| Lab-Grown Diamond | $1,200–$1,800 | Chemically identical to mined, classic sparkle. |
| Moissanite | $600–$900 | Highest brilliance, fiery rainbow sparkle, best value. |
As you can see, moissanite offers a staggering saving. That $5,000 budget for a modest diamond could buy you a stunning 2-carat moissanite ring with a custom designer setting, all while money left over for a honeymoon or a down payment on a house.
Pro Tip: Don’t sacrifice cut quality for size. A well-cut moissanite will outperform a poorly cut diamond in sparkle any day of the week .
H2: Understanding Moissanite Financing: Own Now, Pay Later
Even with a lower price tag, an engagement ring is still a significant purchase. Many of the best companies recognize this and offer flexible financing options to make the purchase manageable.
The Rise of “Buy Now, Pay Later”
The engagement ring industry has seen a massive shift toward point-of-sale financing. Brands are partnering with financial tech companies to offer seamless payment plans.
- Case in Point: East West Gem Co., a popular moissanite retailer, partnered with Bread Pay™ to offer buy now, pay later services. The result? A significant increase in customer accessibility and a 15% rise in average order value, proving that financing helps couples afford the ring of their dreams without compromising on quality .
- What to Look For: When you buy online, look for options like Affirm, Klarna, or PayPal Credit. These allow you to pay in 4 interest-free installments or opt for longer-term monthly plans.
How to Use Financing Wisely
- Check Interest Rates: Some plans are 0% APR if paid in full within a specific period (like 6 or 12 months).
- Budget for the Total Cost: Don’t just look at the monthly payment. Factor in the total cost of the ring plus any interest.
- Read Customer Reviews: Ensure the payment process is smooth. Reviews on sites like WeddingWire often mention if a company’s checkout and financing process is seamless or buggy .
H2: Don’t Drop It! A Guide to Moissanite Insurance
You’ve found the perfect ring and secured financing. Now, you need to protect it. Many buyers assume their renter’s or homeowner’s insurance covers jewelry. It usually doesn’t—or only covers a small amount (often as little as $1,000) against specific perils like theft, but not “mysterious disappearance” (like dropping it down a sink drain) .
Why Specialized Insurance is Crucial
A high-quality moissanite ring can cost anywhere from $500 to over $3,000. If you lose it, can you afford to replace it out of pocket?
- The Solution: A scheduled personal property rider (adding it to your existing policy) or a standalone jewelry insurance policy.
- Coverage: Look for “all-risk” coverage that includes loss, theft, and accidental damage.
Steps to Insure Your Ring
- Get a Professional Appraisal: Even though you have a receipt, insurers require a detailed appraisal from a certified gemologist. This document should list the stone’s carat weight, cut, and the current retail replacement value .
- Choose a Provider: Compare options. Specialists like Jewelers Mutual or Lavalier are often recommended over general insurers because they specialize in jewelry and offer global coverage.
- Review the Premium: Insurance typically costs 1% to 2% of the ring’s value per year. For a $2,000 ring, that’s only $20 to $40 annually—a small price for peace of mind .
“I almost skipped insurance because I thought moissanite was ‘just a lab stone.’ But losing it made me realize how much it meant to me.” — Emily, a real-life customer who used her policy to replace a lost ring .
H2: Where to Buy Online: Finding the Best Company and Reading Reviews
The internet is flooded with options, but where should you trust your money? Knowing how to vet a company is key to a happy purchase.
What Makes the “Best Company”?
Based on market analysis and customer feedback, the top moissanite vendors share a few common traits:
- Transparent Sourcing: They are open about where their stones come from. Brands like Braverman, which applies diamond-industry grading standards to moissanite, are gaining traction for their meticulous stone selection and focus on durability .
- Quality of Service: According to hundreds of reviews on platforms like WeddingWire, the best companies have responsive customer service, fast shipping, and easy return policies.
- Value: Buyers consistently rate value for money as a top priority. One reviewer on WeddingWire noted, “The value and quality are unmatched,” while another mentioned the peace of mind that came with the company’s transparent communication .
Red Flags to Avoid
- Vague Listings: If a site doesn’t specify the moissanite brand (like Charles & Colvard) or provide detailed specs (cut, color, clarity), proceed with caution.
- No Return Policy: Always ensure there is a return policy of at least 30 days. You need to be able to see the ring in person .
- Fake Reviews: Look for detailed reviews on third-party sites like WeddingWire or The Knot. A 5-star rating with generic comments like “Nice ring” could be a red flag. Look for detailed experiences, like the reviewer who mentioned their “crushed ice moissanite” looked better than the more expensive brand they tried in person .
H2: Real Customer Reviews: What Buyers Are Saying
Sometimes, the best way to gauge a product is to hear from those who have already taken the plunge. Here’s what real customers are saying about their moissanite rings:
- On Sparkle: “My pictures don’t do the ring justice, it’s beautiful and perfectly colorless until the sun hits it and then it’s like wild fire and blinding.” – Ashley, WeddingWire Review
- On Value: “We purchased while it was on an insane sale and it feels illegal to have such a beautiful ring for the price we paid!” – Karli, Macy’s Reviewer
- On Quality: “The craftsmanship is flawless… I showed some close friends and the reactions have been everything I could hope for.” – Mack, WeddingWire Review
- On the Process: “Everything went smooth and quick. Placing the order was easy and the communication was great.” – Blake, WeddingWire Review
Top Styles to Consider for Your Moissanite Ring
Now that you know the financials and where to shop, let’s talk style. Moissanite is versatile and looks stunning in almost any cut.
The Classic Solitaire
You can never go wrong with a solitaire. It’s timeless, elegant, and places all the focus on the stone’s incredible fire. Perfect for the minimalist .
The Elongated Shape (Oval & Pear)
Oval and pear cuts are trending hard right now. They have a flattering effect on the finger, making them appear longer and slimmer. Plus, their elongated shape offers a unique look compared to the traditional round .
The Vintage Halo
For those who want maximum sparkle, a halo setting surrounds the center stone with smaller gems, enhancing the perceived size and brilliance. Vintage-inspired halos with milgrain details offer an heirloom feel .
The Three-Stone Ring
Symbolizing the past, present, and future, this style is incredibly meaningful. It offers balance and brilliance, with the side stones adding an extra dimension of light.