So, you’re considering a moissanite? Excellent choice! But navigating the world of gemstone sizes, especially when comparing moissanite to diamonds, can feel a bit like deciphering a new language. Carat weight, a term often associated with size, adds to the confusion because it actually measures weight, and it behaves differently for moissanite than it does for diamonds. Feeling lost? Don’t worry, we’re here to clear up the mystery of moissanite and diamond weights and help you understand how they compare in size.
Carat: Understanding Diamond Weight, Not Size
When you delve into the 4Cs of diamonds, carat weight is a crucial factor. But here’s a key point many miss: carat is a measure of weight, not size. Think of it like pounds – it tells you how heavy something is. A one-carat diamond weighs 200 milligrams. However, this weight doesn’t dictate the diamond’s dimensions or how large it appears. A diamond’s cut and proportions significantly influence its visual size. You could have two diamonds of the same carat weight, but one might look larger due to a shallower cut, though it might sacrifice brilliance. Therefore, while carat is a reference point, always consider measurements and cut quality to avoid ending up with a diamond that looks smaller or lacks sparkle for its weight. Don’t get fooled by carat weight alone when assessing a diamond’s size.
Moissanite’s Weight Advantage: Larger Size for Less Weight
Now, let’s bring moissanite into the equation. Unlike diamonds, moissanite is naturally lighter. In fact, moissanite weighs approximately 15% less than a diamond of the same volume. This difference in density is significant when comparing “carat weight.” When you see a “1 carat” moissanite, it will actually be visually larger than a 1 carat diamond with a comparable cut. This is because to reach the same “carat weight” as a diamond, a moissanite would need to be smaller due to its lower density. Conversely, to achieve the same visual size as a diamond, a moissanite will weigh less. This is why moissanite is often sold with a diamond equivalent weight (DEW) and millimeter measurements. The DEW gives you a familiar carat reference point for size comparison to diamonds, while millimeter measurements provide the actual dimensions of the stone.
Moissanite vs. Diamond Size Chart: Shape Matters
To truly understand the size difference, it’s helpful to look at specific shapes. Let’s explore how moissanite and diamond sizes compare across popular cuts, focusing on diamond equivalent weights and millimeter measurements.
Round Cut
The round brilliant cut is a classic and popular choice for both diamonds and moissanites. A 1 carat round ideal cut diamond typically measures around 6.5mm in diameter. In contrast, a 6.5mm round moissanite has a diamond equivalent weight of approximately 0.88 carats. Essentially, a 6.5mm round is a 6.5mm round, regardless of whether it’s a diamond or moissanite. You achieve the same visual size, but the moissanite will weigh less. Therefore, focusing solely on “carat” when choosing a moissanite can be misleading. Millimeter measurements provide a more accurate representation of visual size.
Princess Cut
For princess cut moissanites, a 5.5mm x 5.5mm square will be roughly equivalent to a 1 carat diamond in terms of face-up size. This is smaller than a 1 carat round diamond due to the princess cut’s shape. If you increase the princess cut moissanite to 6.5mm x 6.5mm, you’ll achieve a diamond equivalent size of approximately 1.5 carats, offering a larger look at a potentially lower price point compared to a diamond of the same equivalent size.
Asscher Cut
Asscher cuts, known for their square shape with cropped corners and step-cut facets, also face up smaller than round cuts. A 5.5mm Asscher cut moissanite will have a diamond equivalent weight of around 1 carat. Similar to the princess cut, increasing to 6.5mm square will give you a 1.5 carat diamond equivalent appearance.
Cushion Cut
Cushion cut moissanites, known for their softer square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, offer a slightly different size comparison. A 6.5mm x 6.5mm square cushion moissanite will be approximately equivalent to a 1.3-carat diamond. Cushion cuts can vary more in dimensions than other shapes, particularly in diamonds, whereas moissanite cushion cuts tend to be more consistent in size for a given millimeter measurement.
Emerald Cut
Emerald cut diamonds, with their elongated rectangular shape and step-cut facets, have a different size dynamic. A 1 carat emerald cut diamond might measure around 6.5mm in length and 5mm in width. A moissanite measuring 7mm long x 5mm wide would have a diamond equivalent weight of approximately 1.2 carats. Keep in mind that emerald cuts can vary in their elongation, influencing their perceived size.
Oval Cut
Oval cut diamonds are known for their elongated shape and ability to appear larger than their carat weight, often referred to as having good “spread.” A 1 carat oval diamond can look visually larger than a 1 carat round diamond. This “spread” also applies to oval cut moissanites. An 8mm length x 6mm width oval moissanite will resemble a 1.5 carat diamond in size, offering a significant visual impact.
Focus on Millimeters for Accurate Moissanite Size
While diamond equivalent weight can be a helpful reference point, especially when you’re familiar with diamond carat sizes, millimeter measurements are the most reliable way to determine the actual size of a moissanite. Because moissanite is lighter than diamond, relying solely on carat weight can be misleading when comparing visual size. An 8mm moissanite will always be larger than a 6mm moissanite, regardless of diamond equivalent weight. When shopping for moissanite, prioritize millimeter measurements to ensure you get the size you desire.
Choosing the Right Size for You
Ultimately, whether you choose a diamond or moissanite, understanding the difference in weight and how it relates to size is key. Moissanite offers the advantage of a larger visual size for a given “carat weight” compared to diamonds. By focusing on millimeter measurements and considering diamond equivalent weight as a reference, you can confidently select the perfect gemstone size and shape for your jewelry, ensuring it beautifully matches your style and preferences.
