Once hailed as a revolutionary diamond alternative, Moissanite may now be nearing the end of its sparkling journey. In a world where lab-grown diamonds have taken centre stage, is there still a place for synthetic Moissanite in South Africa’s jewellery market?
Let’s explore the rise—and potential fall—of this once-celebrated gem and what it means for anyone considering engagement ring alternatives today.
A Gem Born from Stardust
In 1995, American company Charles & Colvard made headlines by introducing a gemstone they claimed was “from the stars.” This gem—synthetic Moissanite—is made from silicon carbide, a compound discovered in a meteorite crater in the late 1800s. Although naturally occurring Moissanite is incredibly rare, scientists learned to grow it in laboratories, producing a brilliant, diamond-like stone.
Charles & Colvard polished these lab-created crystals into sparkling gems and marketed them under brand names like “Stardust,” positioning Moissanite as “the world’s most brilliant gem.” It was described as harder than sapphire, nearly as durable as a diamond, and significantly more affordable—an attractive package for modern couples. In South Africa, many jewellers followed suit, offering Moissanite as a budget-friendly yet visually appealing engagement ring option.
The Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds
For nearly two decades, Moissanite enjoyed popularity among cost-conscious consumers. However, the market took a sharp turn with the rise of lab-grown diamonds. Unlike Moissanite, which only imitates a diamond’s appearance, lab-grown diamonds are chemically and structurally identical to natural diamonds—and indistinguishable to the naked eye.
As production techniques improved, the cost of creating lab-grown diamonds plummeted, making them a highly accessible and authentic alternative. Modern couples, increasingly eco-conscious and value-driven, began to choose lab-grown diamonds over Moissanite.
Charles & Colvard attempted to pivot by entering the lab-grown diamond market in 2020, but the move came too late. As diamond-growing technology advanced, the cost of producing lab-grown diamonds dropped to mere dollars per carat, leading to a sharp decline in their profit margins—and share prices. Today, the company’s future remains uncertain.
Is This the End of Synthetic Moissanite?
With Charles & Colvard—the original driving force behind Moissanite’s popularity—possibly on the brink of closing its doors, we may be witnessing the quiet exit of Moissanite from the global jewellery stage.
If its biggest promoter disappears, the entire synthetic Moissanite market could follow. This raises a compelling question for buyers in South Africa: Is Moissanite still a smart investment, or has its time passed?
What This Means for South African Jewellery Buyers
At Prins & Prins, we’ve watched trends rise and fall over our four decades in the industry. We believe in educating our clients so they can make informed decisions based on longevity, value, and beauty.
If you’re exploring engagement ring options, consider the following:
Moissanite may still appeal to some buyers, but resale value and long-term viability are increasingly limited.
Lab-grown diamonds offer the brilliance, hardness, and prestige of natural diamonds—at a more accessible price.
Natural diamonds remain timeless and hold their value best, especially those certified and ethically sourced.
Not Sure Which Stone Is Right for You?
Whether you’re curious about Moissanite, lab-grown, or natural diamonds, our qualified gemmologists at Prins & Prins are here to guide you. Since 1982, we’ve been Cape Town’s trusted source for premium diamonds and bespoke jewellery.
Call us on +27 21 422 1090 or book a consultation and discover the perfect stone for your forever piece.
