Moissanite vs Asha: Which Sparkles More?

Choosing between moissanite and Asha for your jewelry? 

This guide will compare moissanite versus Asha in terms of sparkle, durability, cost, and care to help you decide which is best for you.

Key Takeaways

• Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone known for its exceptional brilliance and durability, making it a sustainable alternative to mined diamonds.
• Asha diamonds, made from cubic zirconia with a diamond-like coating, offer a budget-friendly option but lack the same level of brilliance and durability as moissanite.
• Choosing between moissanite and Asha diamonds depends on personal preferences regarding environmental impact, durability, brilliance, and budget.

Understanding Moissanite

The transformation of moissanite from a meteor crater discovery to a beloved gemstone is fascinating. Discovered in 1893 by Dr. Henri Moissan in the Arizona meteor crater, this gemstone is truly out of this world. 

Unlike mined diamonds, moissanite is a lab-created gemstone, making it an eco-friendly choice for those concerned about the environmental impact of diamond mining. Its brilliance and durability make it an ideal gemstone for those looking for a sustainable yet dazzling alternative to natural diamonds.

One of the standout features of moissanite is its exceptional brilliance. Known for its ‘fire’ effect, moissanite reflects both white and colored light, creating a dazzling display that often surpasses that of mined diamonds. This unique optical property is due to moissanite’s high refractive index, which ensures that it remains brilliant and does not become foggy or lose its sparkle over time.

The color range of moissanite typically spans from colorless to shades of green and yellow, allowing for a variety of aesthetic preferences. 

Whether set in a diamond ring or any other piece of moissanite jewelry, this gemstone offers a wide array of visual effects, making it a versatile choice for different styles and occasions.

What is Asha Diamond?

Asha diamonds are a marvel of modern technology, designed to mimic natural diamonds' appearance closely. Composed of cubic zirconia with a diamond-like coating, Asha diamonds are not classified as real diamonds but are highly regarded for their diamond-like qualities. 

This diamond simulant offers a cost-effective alternative to mined diamonds, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking the beauty of diamonds without the hefty price tag.

However, Asha diamonds come with their own set of characteristics. They typically maintain a near-colorless appearance and are designed to overcome common issues such as color fading and cloudiness associated with traditional cubic zirconia.

Despite their efforts to mimic natural diamonds, Asha diamonds may show lower clarity and can scratch more easily due to their Mohs hardness rating of 8.5. 

This makes them less durable compared to moissanite, which we will delve into more deeply in the following sections.

Comparing Moissanite and Asha Diamonds

When deciding between moissanite and Asha diamonds, it’s crucial to compare them across various factors, including chemical composition, brilliance, color range, durability, price, and maintenance. Each of these aspects plays a vital role in determining which gemstone is the better choice for your needs and preferences.

Let’s break down these comparisons to see how moissanite and Asha diamonds stack up against each other.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Moissanite and Asha diamonds differ significantly in their chemical composition and structure. Moissanite is primarily composed of silicon carbide, a compound that gives it its remarkable hardness and brilliance. This unique composition sets moissanite apart from other gemstones, making it more than just a diamond simulant; it is a gemstone born of both nature and science.

Asha diamonds have a core made of cubic zirconia. This core is then coated with a layer that resembles real diamonds. 

This design aims to address the common issues of color fading and cloudiness found in traditional cubic zirconia. While Asha diamonds strive to replicate the appearance of natural diamonds, moissanite stands out for its inherent properties and exceptional optical performance.

Brilliance and Sparkle

One of the most appealing aspects of any gemstone is its brilliance and sparkle. Moissanite excels in this department, boasting a high refractive index that results in brilliance surpassing that of diamonds. Its unique optical properties, including birefringence, cause light to split into two beams, creating a stunning rainbow effect that enhances its sparkle.

The double refractive nature of moissanite results in vivid flashes of color, making it a favorite for those who want their jewelry to stand out. This unique sparkle is a defining characteristic of moissanite, setting it apart from Asha diamonds, which cannot achieve the same brilliance despite their efforts to mimic natural diamonds.

While maintaining a diamond-like appearance, Asha diamonds do not possess the same optical properties as moissanite.

Their sparkle, although impressive, lacks the vivid color flashes that moissanite offers. This difference in brilliance and sparkle can be a deciding factor for those looking for a gemstone that truly dazzles in any lighting condition.

Color Range and Clarity

A gemstone's color range and clarity are crucial in determining its visual appeal. Moissanite exhibits a color range from near colorless to subtle yellow or green hues, offering a variety of choices for different tastes. Moissanite and Asha's diamonds are typically eye-clean, meaning they have minimal to no visible inclusions, enhancing their appeal as jewelry options.

Asha diamonds are designed to mimic the clarity and color of natural diamonds, typically maintaining a near-colorless appearance. While moissanite can exhibit subtle hues, both gemstones offer excellent clarity, making them visually appealing choices for those looking to add some sparkle to their collection.

Durability and Hardness

Durability and hardness are essential factors, especially for everyday wear. Moissanite scores an impressive 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, indicating superior durability compared to Asha diamonds, which are rated at 8.5. This makes moissanite one of the hardest gemstones, ideal for those who want their jewelry to withstand daily wear without showing signs of damage.

Additionally, moissanite can withstand extreme heat, with a melting point of approximately 2730 °C, making it highly resistant to harsh conditions. In contrast, Asha diamonds, while durable, do not match the hardness and heat resistance of moissanite, making them slightly less suitable for rigorous daily use.

Price and Value

Price and value are significant considerations for many buyers. Moissanite is generally more affordable compared to natural diamonds and offers superior attributes for the price, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers. While moissanite is more expensive than Asha diamonds, it is still cheaper than natural diamonds, providing a balanced option for quality and cost.

The price of moissanite is influenced by factors such as size, color, clarity, and cut, whereas the price of Asha diamonds depends on the size and quality of the diamond coating. Despite being less expensive, Asha diamond jewelry requires more frequent maintenance to preserve its appearance, which can add to the overall cost over time.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining the brilliance and longevity of your gemstones is crucial. Moissanite requires simple care routines, such as cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush to retain its brilliant sparkle. Regular maintenance ensures moissanite remains dazzling, even with everyday wear.

On the other hand, Asha diamonds need more frequent cleaning due to their diamond-like coating. They can be cleaned using a mild detergent solution and should be rinsed thoroughly to prevent residue buildup. Regular inspection for signs of wear and tear on the diamond coating is also recommended to ensure they continue to look their best.

Choosing Between Moissanite and Asha Diamonds

Choosing between moissanite and Asha diamonds ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. For those concerned with environmental impact, moissanite stands out as an eco-friendly option since it is lab-created, avoiding the ethical issues associated with diamond mining. Its superior brilliance, durability, and relatively low maintenance make it an attractive choice for many.

Asha diamonds, with their uncanny resemblance to natural diamonds, appeal to those seeking beauty on a budget. They offer a cost-effective solution without compromising on appearance, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and jewelry pieces, as well as the perfect ring for those who desire elegance. A real diamond can be a significant investment, but Asha diamonds provide a stunning alternative.

Harlem Bling offers a vast selection of both moissanite and Asha jewelry, catering to diverse customer preferences. Their competitive pricing, quality assurance, and excellent customer service make them a trusted destination for those looking to invest in beautiful, high-quality jewelry.

Harlem Bling: Your Destination for Moissanite Jewelry

Harlem Bling, established in 2009, has carved out a niche as a premier retailer specializing in hip-hop and iced-out jewelry. Their extensive collection includes genuine moissanite, man-made diamonds, and high-quality materials such as solid 925 sterling silver and gold. Clients choose Harlem Bling for their jewelry offerings' optimal beauty and longevity.

With over 100,000 happy customers and numerous positive reviews, Harlem Bling ensures quality and authenticity in every piece they sell. 

Their commitment to competitive pricing, fast shipping, and excellent customer service makes them the go-to place for stunning moissanite jewelry that rivals natural diamonds in sparkle and quality.

Summary

In summary, both moissanite and Asha diamonds offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences and needs. 

Moissanite’s superior brilliance, durability, and eco-friendly nature make it an ideal choice for those seeking a sustainable and dazzling gemstone. On the other hand, Asha diamonds provide a cost-effective alternative that closely resembles natural diamonds, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.

Whether you choose moissanite or Asha diamonds, it’s essential to consider factors such as brilliance, durability, price, and maintenance to make an informed decision. 

Harlem Bling provides a wide range of options, ensuring that you find the perfect piece of jewelry that meets your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes moissanite more brilliant than diamonds?

Moissanite's superior brilliance compared to diamonds stems from its higher refractive index and unique optical properties, such as birefringence, which produce an exceptional sparkle and rainbow effect.

How does the durability of moissanite compare to Asha diamonds?

Moissanite is more durable than Asha diamonds, with a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale compared to Asha's rating of 8.5. This makes moissanite a superior choice for resistance to scratches and everyday wear.

What is the primary composition of Asha diamonds?

Asha diamonds are primarily composed of cubic zirconia, enhanced with a diamond-like coating to mimic the appearance of real diamonds.

How often should I clean my Asha diamond jewelry?

You should clean your Asha diamond jewelry regularly to prevent residue buildup, using a mild detergent solution and rinsing it thoroughly. This ensures the diamond-like coating remains in pristine condition.

Why should I choose Harlem Bling for my jewelry purchase?

Choosing Harlem Bling ensures you receive high-quality, genuine jewelry at competitive prices, along with fast shipping and excellent customer service. This combination makes them a reliable choice for your jewelry needs.