Moissanite vs diamond — I wore both for 6 months. My completely honest update.

I know this is a sensitive topic in some diamond communities. I'm going to give you the honest version.

Background: I got engaged with a 2ct moissanite (Charles & Colvard Forever One) in rose gold. I wore it for 6 months. My sister-in-law then gifted me a 1ct natural GIA diamond to compare with directly.

What moissanite actually looks like:
Absolutely gorgeous. More fiery than diamond — the rainbow sparkle is more intense, which some people love and some find "disco ball" in bright light. In most everyday lighting, it is stunning.

In direct sunlight or strong LED spotlights, the fire difference is noticeable if you know what to look for. If you don't know, you won't care.

Hardness:
Moissanite is 9.25 on Mohs. Diamond is 10. In practice, moissanite holds up extremely well. After 6 months of daily wear including gym, cooking, gardening — no chips, scratches or dulling.

Price:
My 2ct moissanite: $600. A 2ct natural diamond equivalent: $18,000–25,000. A 2ct lab diamond: $3,000.

The honest truth:
If your fiancée knows and is happy with moissanite: amazing choice, beautiful stone, save tens of thousands.

If she specifically wants a diamond and you give her moissanite without saying: she will eventually find out and that will hurt far more than the money.

Have the conversation first. The ring should match what she actually wants.