When it comes to buying moissanite, one of the most important factors to consider is the price. The Moissanite Price Chart is an excellent starting point for understanding how carat weight, cut, color, and clarity affect the price. Whether you’re looking for a moissanite engagement ring or a stunning necklace, understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision that fits your budget and personal style.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down all the elements that determine the price of moissanite stones and provide detailed price charts for each aspect, so you know exactly what to expect. You’ll also find helpful internal links that guide you to other related posts, such as our in-depth reviews of moissanite jewelry available on platforms like James Allen and Amazon. Let’s get started!
Key Factors Affecting Moissanite Pricing
Moissanite pricing is influenced by several factors, much like diamonds. Here are the four main characteristics that affect the cost of your moissanite stone:
- Carat Weight
- Cut Quality
- Color Grade
- Clarity Grade
Each of these can be carefully balanced based on your needs and budget. We’ll break them down one by one, showing you exactly how they affect pricing.
1. Moissanite Carat Weight and Pricing
The carat weight of a moissanite refers to its size. Larger stones typically cost more due to their rarity. However, the price per carat can vary depending on the cut, color, and clarity of the stone.
How does carat weight affect Moissanite price?
One of the most important factors that affect the price of moissanite—like diamonds—is carat weight. If you are not aware, the carat weight is directly related to the size of the stone and larger stones normally carry a price premium due to their relative rarity, as well as higher costs involved with mining, cutting and polishing larger gemstones. Price Depending on Carat Weight:
- The Bigger the Stone, The More It Costs: Like everything else in life, diamond prices rise exponentially with carat weight, not proportionally. That’s because a larger stone is much more expensive to produce and cut. That is to say, a 3.0-carats moissanite can cost multiple times that of a 1.0-carat stone whereas it is three times heavier only.
- Short Supply of Bigger Stones: It is more difficult to discover larger moissanite stones. A bigger stone require more material, and few of these stones meet the required cut, color and clarity quality criteria which in turn commands a premium price. This scarcity factor is what makes larger stones more desirable.
- Carat Weight Price: Although the price jumps with carat weight, at some higher weights it can be a steeper increase per carat. Example: A 1ct moissanite might be $1000, but a 3ct stone could be $3000 or more, as it’s less available and harder to source larger stones, which can double the per-carat price.
- Visual Impact on Perceived Value: Bigger stones tend to be more striking This incidence makes them appear to be of greater worth, in the eyes of consumers. Moissanite stones by their brilliance look bigger to compared to diamonds of equal carat weight, therefore size is even more significant when considering the beauty and price.
- Carat Weight and more: The correlation between carat weight and price can also be influenced by the cut, colour, and clarity of the stone as well. To illustrate, a large moissanite piece of lesser quality or undesirable cut may cost less compared to smaller pieces that are well-cut and have the maximum clarity possible, even if the latter weighs significantly less.
To summarize, carat weight does influence the price of moissanite but do keep in mind that this is not the only parameter that determines its cost as cut, clarity and color are other key parameters affecting pricing too. If your heart is set on moissanite, then don’t shy away from size but weigh the quality factors against your budget to get what most resembles a perfect balance.
Moissanite Price Chart Based on Carat Weight
Carat Weight | D-E-F (Colorless) | G-H-I (Near-Colorless) | J-K (Faintly Colored) |
---|---|---|---|
0.5 | $500 | $450 | $400 |
1.0 | $1,000 | $900 | $800 |
1.5 | $1,500 | $1,350 | $1,200 |
2.0 | $2,000 | $1,800 | $1,600 |
2.5 | $2,500 | $2,250 | $2,000 |
3.0 | $3,000 | $2,700 | $2,400 |
This table shows the cost difference based on carat weight and color grade. As you can see, larger stones and higher color grades will cost more.
2. Moissanite Cut Quality and Pricing
The cut quality of a moissanite is perhaps the most important factor when it comes to its brilliance and visual appeal. A well-cut moissanite will sparkle much more than a poorly cut one, making it a significant factor in its price.
How do cut quality choices affect price?
The first and foremost one of the diamond qualities that influence the price of a moissanite gemstone is cut quality with direct impact on stone aesthetics and brilliance. To determine the brilliance and overall appearance of a moissanite you must consider how well it reflects lights, which is determined by its cut.
The right moissanite cut will shine and sparkle much more than average, while a bad cut can make the same stone appear lifeless and dull no matter how high its carat weight color or clarity.
Deal Alert
Get 30% off engagement ring settings at Blue Nile!
Price increases with higher cut quality:
A moissanite stone with a better overall cut will come at a higher price. This is due to the fact you need higher skill, precision and labour to cut a gemstone with the highest quality. Further, these stones have smoother and larger facets which allow the light play to admire the brilliance of the stone thus making them more desirable and valuable. Common moissanite cut grades are as follows:
- Excellent Cut: The highest grade, with precise proportions and angles that maximize the stone’s brilliance and sparkle. These stones reflect light in a way that makes them appear vibrant and dazzling.
- Good Cut: Stones with a good cut still show decent brilliance, but they might not sparkle as much as excellent-cut stones. These cuts may have slight variations in angles or proportions that slightly affect their light performance.
- Fair Cut: This cut quality is the most basic and may have less optimal proportions, leading to less brilliance and sparkle. A fair-cut moissanite might still look decent but lacks the visual appeal of better cuts.
View Blue Nile Review
Check our comprehensive Blue Nile review to learn more about their pricing and commitment.
Effect on Brilliance and Sparkle:
- Excellent Cut stones offer the highest level of brilliance and sparkle. They are the most popular due to their ability to reflect the most light, which creates a diamond-like fire. This is accomplished in angles, symmetry, and proportions.
- Good Cut stones may still be attractive to the eye. Yet, they will lack some of the brilliance that you would get from an excellent cut stone. They fall on the lower side of the scale compared to well-cut moissanites, but are a nice compromise between quality and price.
- Fair Cut stones are generally the least expensive because their sparkle and brilliance is severely reduced. Not exactly the most attractive angles or proportions, and they look kind of washed out with any illumination.
Deal Alert
Get 25% off engagement ring settings at James Allen!
Moissanite Price Chart Based on Cut Quality
Cut Quality | D-E-F (Colorless) | G-H-I (Near-Colorless) | J-K (Faintly Colored) |
---|---|---|---|
Excellent | $1,200 | $1,100 | $1,000 |
Good | $1,000 | $900 | $850 |
Fair | $850 | $750 | $700 |
A higher-quality cut, such as “Excellent,” will increase the price because of the enhanced sparkle, while a “Fair” or “Good” cut offers a more affordable option.
3. Moissanite Color Grade and Pricing
Moissanite comes in various color grades, from colorless to faintly colored. The higher the color grade, the more expensive the stone. The color grade refers to how much visible color the stone has, with colorless stones (D-E-F) being the most expensive.
Moissanite Price Chart Based on Color Grade
Color Grade | 0.5 Carat | 1.0 Carat | 1.5 Carat | 2.0 Carat |
---|---|---|---|---|
D-E-F (Colorless) | $500 | $1,000 | $1,500 | $2,000 |
G-H-I (Near-Colorless) | $450 | $900 | $1,350 | $1,800 |
J-K (Faintly Colored) | $400 | $800 | $1,200 | $1,600 |
As you can see, colorless stones (D-E-F) are more expensive than near-colorless or faintly colored stones (G-H-I and J-K). However, even with slight coloration, moissanite still offers exceptional brilliance.
4. Moissanite Clarity Grade and Pricing
The clarity of moissanite refers to the presence of any inclusions (imperfections) inside the stone. The fewer inclusions, the higher the price. Most moissanites are virtually flawless, but clarity can still impact pricing.
How does clarity affect Moissanite price?
One of the main criteria that define the cost of a moissanite stone is clarity. Inclusions and blemishes — that is what it means; that you have little internal or external flaws in your stone. The more the stone is clear (free, without or few inclusions and blemishes) the higher its price.
- Higher of Clarity = Higher Price: Moissanite stones that have fewer than no inclusions are more expensive due to a rarer stone and higher careful selection. Stones with a clarity grade of either Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF), are near perfect internal and external characteristics and thus command higher prices.
- Moissanite Clarity Grades: The clarity of moissanite is also graded, ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I1, I2, I3). Lets see how clarity actually influences pricing:
- Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF): The highest clarity grades, with no internal inclusions visible under magnification, and no external blemish. These are the costliest stones among all.
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2): These gems contain extremely small inclusions that only a trained expert can see under magnification. Yet still decent quality, but with a lower price than FL or IF stones.
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2): These stones have inclusions that are somewhat more apparent but can still be difficult to see without magnification. They are cheaper than VVS stones.
- Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2): Stones with inclusions visible under magnification and in some cases, by naked eye. These are less expensive than stones of a higher clarity.
- Included (I1, I2, I3): These stones have easily noticeable inclusions and they impact the appearance and brilliance of the stone profoundly. These stones are the cheapest because they are less attractive.
- Optical Effect: While clarity has influence on price, it does not usually have that great an effect on how the stone appears to the eye. However, moissanite is often eye-clean to the naked eye even at lower clarity grades like VS1 or SI1. This means that some buyers may decide they want to spend their cash on a different quality — cut or color for example — and pick clarity stones with lower grades for the sake of savings.
- Budget vs. Quality: If you’re on a budget, you can still find an amazing moissanite at a more affordable price by going lower on the clarity grade of your stone. A VS1 or SI1 will provide good value and give up very little, if anything, on the visual impact of the diamond. Only under magnification is a higher-clarity stone really recognizable, which is why many buyers opt to spend less on clarity and more on the cut or carat weight.
James Allen Review
Check our comprehensive James Allen Review to learn more about their pricing and commitment.
Clarity has a major impact on moissanite pricing because higher-clarity stones are expensive due to their rarity and perfection. Still others go for stones that are one or two grades lower in clarity (e.g. VS1, SI1) because they are eye-clean but much better value for money.
Clarity is just one of the four key factors you should consider when buying moissanite; the others are carat weight, color and cut — if you hope to reap the most value at every cost point, these in a way go hand-in-hand with clarity.
Moissanite Price Chart Based on Clarity Grade
Clarity Grade | 0.5 Carat | 1.0 Carat | 1.5 Carat | 2.0 Carat |
---|---|---|---|---|
Flawless (FL) | $600 | $1,200 | $1,800 | $2,400 |
Internally Flawless (IF) | $550 | $1,100 | $1,650 | $2,200 |
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2) | $500 | $1,000 | $1,500 | $2,000 |
Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2) | $450 | $900 | $1,350 | $1,800 |
Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2) | $400 | $800 | $1,200 | $1,600 |
A higher clarity grade means a clearer, more visually appealing stone. However, many consumers find that choosing a slightly lower clarity grade offers significant savings without a noticeable difference to the naked eye.
How to Choose the Right Moissanite for Your Budget
Selecting the perfect moissanite gemstone involves balancing all these factors: carat weight, cut, color, and clarity. Depending on your preferences and budget, you may want to prioritize certain aspects.
- If budget is a priority: Consider opting for a stone with a slightly lower color grade (like G-H-I) or clarity grade (like VS or SI). You can still achieve a beautiful, sparkly stone while keeping costs down.
- If sparkle is the priority: Focus on cut quality. A well-cut moissanite will have more brilliance and will look stunning in any piece of jewelry, even with a slightly lower carat or clarity grade.
Think You’re A Diamond Pro?
Think you’re a Diamond Pro and can save almost 50%? Choose the diamond that you like better. Is it the J color for $2,450 or the G color for $4,820?
Where to Buy Moissanite Jewelry
When purchasing moissanite jewelry, it’s essential to buy from reputable retailers who offer quality stones and transparency in their pricing. Some trusted names in the industry include:
- James Allen: Known for their customizable options and top-notch customer service.
- Blue Nile: Famous for offering a wide selection of high-quality gemstones and jewelry.
- Amazon: Offers budget-friendly options, including moissanite eternity rings and necklaces.
Related Articles You Might Enjoy
If you’re interested in exploring more about moissanite and other gemstones, check out these related posts:
- Top 10 Exquisite Gem Necklaces: Stunning Pieces from Blue Nile, James Allen, and Moon Magic
- Moissanite Bridal Sets Are the New ‘YESʼ Essential: Learn Why
- Top 5 Moissanite Eternity Band on Amazon Under $200
- Top 5 Moissanite Necklace Under $200 on Amazon
Conclusion: Finding the Best Moissanite for You
Understanding the Moissanite Price Chart is crucial for making an informed decision when purchasing this stunning gemstone. By considering factors such as carat weight, cut quality, color grade, and clarity grade, you can find the perfect moissanite that fits your style, needs, and budget.
Whether you are looking for a larger stone with excellent cut and color or a more budget-friendly option with slightly lower clarity, there’s a moissanite stone for every preference. Remember, while the higher carat weight, excellent cut, and colorless grade stones may cost more, you can still achieve a beautiful and sparkling look with stones that are more affordable, without compromising too much on quality.
Key Takeaways:
- Carat weight, cut quality, color grade, and clarity grade all play a significant role in determining the price of moissanite. Larger stones, better cuts, and higher color and clarity grades lead to higher prices.
- The Moissanite Price Chart can guide you in understanding how these factors influence the price and help you make a more informed purchase.
- If you’re looking for high-quality stones on a budget, consider opting for a slightly lower color or clarity grade while prioritizing the cut, which directly influences the stone’s brilliance.
- Moissanite is a brilliant, durable, and more affordable alternative to diamonds, offering exceptional value without compromising on beauty or quality.
Explore More Moissanite Jewelry Options
If you’re excited about the possibilities of moissanite and want to explore more options, check out these helpful guides and reviews to find the perfect piece of jewelry for you:
- Moissanite Cuban Link Chain Pricing: What Affects the Cost? – Learn about pricing factors for moissanite Cuban link chains.
- Moissanite Cuban Link on Amazon: Top 5 Picks – A selection of the best moissanite Cuban link chains on Amazon.
- Moissanite Watch Men’s Edition: Luxury Watches You Can’t Ignore! – Discover luxury watches featuring moissanite stones.
- Top 5 Moissanite Eternity Band on Amazon Under $200 – Find beautiful and affordable moissanite eternity bands on Amazon.
With a better understanding of how moissanite pricing works and the factors that affect its cost, you can now shop confidently for the perfect piece of jewelry that fits your style and budget. Don’t forget to explore all the options available, and always keep in mind the Moissanite Price Chart as a helpful reference guide during your purchase.
Happy shopping, and enjoy the brilliance of your new moissanite!