Buying a piece of jewelry with a gemstone is an important choice, and there are many options to choose from. Among the most popular stones are natural diamonds, synthetic or laboratory diamonds, moissanite and zircons. In this article we will explore the differences between these stones and the reason why moissanite is the best choice for quality/price and for protecting the environment and work ethics.

Natural diamonds are precious stones that form naturally underground. They are known for their hardness and beauty, and are often used to create precious jewelry. However, mining natural diamonds can lead to serious environmental and social consequences, such as mining in conflict zones or the use of child labor and exploitation.

The diamond industry has long been associated with conflict and human rights abuses, particularly in countries such as Sierra Leone, Botswana, Congo, Angola and Liberia. These nations have been ravaged by civil war, and diamonds have become a source of funding for rebel groups. Furthermore, diamond mining has led to the destruction of natural habitats and the pollution of water resources.

To combat these problems, several initiatives have been introduced to ensure diamonds are mined responsibly and sustainably. One such initiative is the Kimberley Process, a certification system that ensures diamonds are mined legally and do not finance armed conflict.

Synthetic or lab diamonds are created in a laboratory using advanced crystal growth techniques. They are chemically identical to natural diamonds, but do not carry the same environmental and social impacts. Additionally, they are usually less expensive than natural diamonds.

The production of synthetic diamonds has a lower environmental impact than the extraction of natural diamonds, but can still lead to problems such as the use of electricity and the emission of greenhouse gases. However, many companies are trying to mitigate these impacts by developing more sustainable technologies.

Moissanite is a synthetic gemstone that has become popular as an alternative to diamonds due to its brilliance, hardness, and affordable price. Moissanite is made from silicon carbide and is produced in a laboratory using advanced techniques.

Compared to diamonds, moissanite has a higher refractive index, meaning it reflects more light and appears brighter. Furthermore, moissanite has a hardness very similar to that of diamond and does not scratch easily.

The production of moissanite has a much lower environmental impact than the extraction of natural diamonds, and most moissanite manufacturers make an effort to ensure that their processes are sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Zircon is a synthetic gemstone that is often used as an alternative to diamonds. Compared to diamonds, cubic zirconia are less hard and less shiny, but they are also much more affordable. Additionally, cubic zirconia can come in a variety of colors, making them an attractive option for those looking for a unique piece of jewelry.

Producing zircon has a much lower environmental impact than mining natural diamonds, but it's still important to choose a zircon manufacturer that is committed to environmental sustainability and work ethics.

Choosing the right gemstone for your jewelry depends on your personal preferences and your budget. However, it is also important to consider the environmental and social impacts of the extraction and production of these stones. If you are looking for a sustainable and affordable alternative to natural diamonds, moissanite may be the best choice for you.