Choose Your
Stone
Moissanite, Lab Diamond, or Natural Diamond — every stone has its story. We break down the real differences so you can make the right choice for your custom piece.
Drag the slider to see approximate price differences at your desired carat weight.
Moissanite
$900
approx. for 2 carat
27x cheaper than natural
Lab Diamond
$4,000
approx. for 2 carat
6x cheaper than natural
Natural Diamond
$24,000
approx. for 2 carat
Premium for rarity & provenance
Moissanite
The Brilliant Alternative
Originally discovered in a meteor crater, moissanite is now lab-created and offers more fire and brilliance than any diamond. It's the boldest stone for iced-out pieces.
Price per Carat
$300 – $600
Advantages
Considerations
Best For
Iced-out chains, large pendants, grills — maximum visual impact for your budget
C&H Recommendation
Our most popular stone for iced-out C&H chains and name pendants. Get 3x the carat weight for the same price as a lab diamond.
Lab Diamond
Identical to Natural
Chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. Grown in a lab using the same carbon crystal structure. GIA-certified and indistinguishable even under a loupe.
Price per Carat
$1,000 – $3,000
Advantages
Considerations
Best For
Engagement rings, high-end pendants, pieces where diamond certification matters
C&H Recommendation
Our go-to for customers who want a real diamond certificate without the natural diamond price tag. VVS lab diamonds are our specialty.
Natural Diamond
The Timeless Original
Formed over billions of years under extreme pressure deep in the Earth. The ultimate status symbol. Every natural diamond is unique, with its own inclusions and story.
Price per Carat
$4,000 – $20,000+
Advantages
Considerations
Best For
Investment pieces, heirlooms, ultra-premium custom orders, VVS/VS1 statement pieces
C&H Recommendation
For our clients who want the real thing — earth-mined, GIA-certified, conflict-free. We source only from verified ethical suppliers.
Side-by-Side Specs
| Property | Moissanite | Lab Diamond | Natural Diamond |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price per Carat | $300 – $600 | $1,000 – $3,000 | $4,000 – $20,000+ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9.25 / 10 (Mohs) | 10 / 10 (Mohs) — Hardest | 10 / 10 (Mohs) — Hardest |
| Brilliance (RI) | 2.65 (Refractive Index) | 2.42 (Refractive Index) | 2.42 (Refractive Index) |
| Fire (Dispersion) | 0.104 (Dispersion) | 0.044 (Dispersion) | 0.044 (Dispersion) |
| Origin | Lab-created (Silicon Carbide) | Lab-grown (CVD or HPHT process) | Earth-mined (1–3 billion years old) |
Ready to Choose
Your Stone?
Our master jeweler will help you make the perfect choice for your custom piece.