Nexus Diamond vs. Moissanite: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Are you interested in a high-quality diamond alternative? Consider either Nexus Diamond or moissanite as options for your next custom jewelry purchase. 

Both moissanite and Nexus Diamond exhibit unique attributes and distinctive optical and chemical properties. But what is the difference? 

This article will cover moissanite vs diamond nexus, background of moissanite and Nexus Diamonds, comparing them side by side, detailing their similarities and attributes. A world of brilliance awaits you with exciting diamond alternatives within your budget without compromising quality.

Nexus Diamond vs. Moissanite: What's the Difference?

The following is a comparison list of moissanite vs diamond Nexus.

Composition (Moissanite)

Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide (SiC), with a carbon atom surrounded by four silicon atoms in a tetrahedral form.  Natural moissanite is a very rare mineral, which makes it extremely expensive.  Natural moissanite is found in small quantities in certain rocks, including meteorites, kimberlites and lamproites. 

Composition (Nexus Diamond)

Nexus Diamonds are a patented diamond simulant utilizing a unique lab process resulting in “the perfect diamond simulant.” According to the Nexus Diamond website, Nexus Diamonds are composed of a proprietary blend of corundum coating to increase the hardness of the stone and reduce porosity. 

Appearance (Moissanite)

Gemstones and diamonds are measured on a refractive index scale, helping to determine the stone’s identification (in conjunction to other tests). The refractive index (fire) measures the bending of a ray of light when passing from one medium into another (Britannica). 

Moissanite has a high refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69, with noticeable double refractivity and an adamantine luster.  Moissanite is known as the most brilliant stone on earth with its refractivity. 

Moissanite is more brilliant than a diamond or other diamond simulants and diamond alternatives.This stunning fire exhibits an incredible rainbow or “disco ball effect” as the stone moves. The “doubling” of the stone can easily be seen under 10x magnification–it appears as if the facet junctions are mirroring each other.

Appearance (Nexus Diamond)

The Nexus Diamond patented technology allows for the “perfect diamond” across all the 4Cs.

The 4Cs is a scale developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The 4Cs include color, clarity, cut, and caratage. These lab-created diamond simulants mimic all the properties of natural, earth-mined diamonds without the strenuous supply chain and environmental factors involved with sourcing natural diamonds from the earth. 

Cost (Moissanite) 

Lab-created moissanite is the synthetic counterpart of natural moissanite. These high-quality man-made stones are not lab-created diamonds. Synthetic moissanite costs considerably less than natural diamonds and natural moissanite. 

Moissanite is more expensive than some common and less common diamond alternatives and synthetic simulants. These simulants include cubic zirconia, strontium titanate, YAG (Yttrium Aluminum Garnet), and GGG (Gadolinium Gallium Garnet). Some of these older diamond simulants' popularity decreased as newer, better diamond simulants entered the market, like moissanite and Nexus Diamond.

Cost (Nexus Diamond)

When doing a side by side comparison of Nexus Diamond and moissanite using a classic ring type, such a 1 carat Tapered Classic Round Cut Solitaire Engagement Ring, Nexus Diamond is slightly more expensive than a moissanite of the same quality, caratage, cut, and size set into the same fine metal.

Value (Moissanite)

Moissanite is a high-quality diamond alternative that retains some value over time. Moissanite may be certified for insurance purposes. There is some resale value for moissanite and moissanite rings – however, it is not as significant as diamonds or precious colored stones due to their lab origins.

Value (Nexus Diamond)

According to the Nexus Diamond website, They offer a Lifetime Stone Guarantee, ensuring the quality of every Nexus Diamond alternative--defined as never chipping, cracking, or discoloration. You may also purchase an extended protection plan.

Both moissanite and Nexus Diamond will last through years of wear and tear. Nexus Diamonds and moissanite are high-quality diamond simulants perfect for engagement rings, wedding bands, and anniversary rings. Feel good knowing you selected a stunning diamond alternative that is good for the environment and your budget without compromising quality or beauty.

Manufacturing (Moissanite)

Because of its rarity, synthetic moissanite was created in a laboratory in the late 1990s. Gem-quality moissanite was first introduced by Charles Eric Hunter, who formed the company Charles & Colvard Ltd. Moissanite was patented in the US in North Carolina.

Synthetic moissanite is formed under controlled conditions using a combination of pressure and heat in a laboratory setting. This painstaking process takes 2-3 months to produce a specimen that is worthy of jewelry setting and design.

Manufacturing (Nexus Diamond)

According to the Nexus Diamond website, the difference between the Nexus Diamond and cubic zirconia (zirconium dioxide) is that the Nexus Diamond has a proprietary blend of corundum coating to make the stone harder and impervious to porosity. This means the Nexus Diamond will retain its D Color (completely colorless) and IF clarity (internally flawless). 

Durability of Moissanite & Nexus Diamond 

Gems and mineral hardness or the "ability to be scratched" is measured on the Mohs scale, helping identify the mineral and its scratch-resistant tendencies. The Mohs scale rates these materials from 1-10, with a diamond famous for its hardness rating a 10/10. Talc is a 1 and is considered extremely soft.  

Moissanite rates 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it durable.

Nexus Diamond rates a 9.1 -9.2 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and perfect for frequent wear. Since moissanite ranks slightly higher than Nexus Diamond at 9.25, this would make moissanite more durable.

Maintaining Moissanite & Nexus Diamond

Cleaning your moissanite and Nexus Diamond jewelry once every 2-3 weeks is recommended. Regularly maintaining your jewelry will remove bacteria, debris, and build-up caused by exposure from everyday cleaning products, cosmetics, and more. Check out our in-depth blog, How to Clean Moissanite Ring: 7 Tips to Keep Moissanite Brilliant.

Follow these steps for a quick and easy way to keep your moissanite and Nexus Diamond jewelry clean:

1. Tepid Water & Gentle Dish Soap: Fill a bowl with lukewarm tap water. Add a few drops of mild dish soap. Mixing this solution will create suds. Marie Claire online suggests using Dawn dish soap with water.
2. Soak in Soapy Water Solution: Place your moissanite ring or Nexus Diamond jewelry in the soapy water bowl, letting it soak for 10-15 minutes. This time allows the build-up and grime to loosen around the stone, its settings, and other parts.
3. Scrub: Always use a NEW brush. Older brushes may have residue from previous uses, possibly damaging the jewelry with unknown chemicals. 

Gently scrub the jewelry, especially under the stone, around the prongs, and any crevices (milgrain beaded edges, for example). Using excessive force is never required–this may damage delicate design parts.

1. Rinse & Pat Dry: Rinse the ring thoroughly under cool water running from the tap, removing the soapy residue. Pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth, or let it air dry.

Professional Cleaning and Maintenance 

Visiting a professional jeweler is recommended for maintaining your jewelry and fixing any issues that arise with wearing your moissanite or Nexus Diamond jewelry. Re-pronging/re-tipping and tightening the prongs keep the stone securely in place without it jiggling or falling out. Professional cleaning removes grime; buffing/polishing keeps your jewelry looking brand new. 

Regularly scheduling your appointments a few times a year for inspection and professional cleaning will pinpoint any concerns or issues you may be unaware of.

Which is Better: Nexus Diamond or Moissanite? 

The following is a summary of moissanite vs. Nexus Diamonds:

Nexus Diamond:

• A Nexus Diamond is a lab-created diamond simulant mimicking the look and brilliance of a natural diamond. Nexus Diamonds are composed of a proprietary formula with a patented corundum coating, enhancing its sparkle, fire, hardness, and durability. 

• Nexus diamonds maintain a perfect rating across the 4Cs, including a D colorless grade. Nexus Diamonds rate 9.1-9.2 on the Mohs scale, making them highly scratch resistant.

Moissanite:

• Moissanite is also a lab-created gemstone, rising in popularity, especially over the last few years. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, cubic zirconia, or Nexus Diamonds, resulting in an ultra-glamorous rainbow effect. 

• Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide (SiC), with a carbon atom surrounded by four silicon atoms in a tetrahedral form. Moissanite rates 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it even more durable than a Nexus Diamond. 

Recommendation

So, which is better? It comes down to personal preference and style. Moissanite and Nexus Diamonds have different compositions and appearances, making them remarkably beautiful, durable, and brilliant. This makes them a practical selection for your next fine jewelry investment.

Moissanite tends to be a little cheaper than Nexus Diamonds, but it may not be enough of a difference to base your final decision-making just on price. 

It is worth it to check them out in person or doing research on these wondrous stones. Both are high-quality, durable, and stunning selections for a diamond alternative. Which do you prefer? Fire like a diamond, or the rainbow doubling effect of a moissanite? 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Here are some FAQs regarding moissanite, Nexus Diamonds, and natural diamonds.

Are Nexus Diamonds as durable as natural diamonds?

Nexus Diamonds are not as durable as natural diamonds. As mentioned above, diamonds are famous for their hardness, rating a 10/10 on the Mohs scale, which is a scale developed to test minerals' scratch tendencies. Nexus Diamonds rate a 9.1-9.2 on the scale. This makes Nexus Diamonds durable and hard, perfect for your next fine jewelry purchase.

Is a Nexus Diamond or moissanite gemstone suitable for daily wear?

Nexus Diamonds and moissanite are both great options for daily wear. Both exhibit fire, brilliance, and sparkle. Nexus Diamonds and moissanite are high-quality lab-created diamond alternatives set into fine metals and cut into different shapes, making them super versatile for jewelry design.

The Bottom Line 

This is a summary of the key points mentioned throughout this blog post.

Both Nexus Diamonds and moissanite are man-made diamond simulants. Nexus Diamonds aim at mimicking a natural diamond. 

Lab-created moissanite began production in the late 1990s, created to mimic its rare and expensive natural moissanite counterpart. 

Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide (SiC), with a carbon atom surrounded by four silicon atoms in a tetrahedral form. Synthetic moissanite is formed 2-3 months in the lab producing a gem-worthy specimen. Are you concerned about moissanite problems? See our Moissanite Problems blog post for more information.

Moissanite rates 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness out of 10. Moissanite has a high refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69 with noticeable double refractivity and an adamantine luster.  Moissanite is known as the most brilliant stone on earth with its refractivity. 

Nexus Diamonds are a patented diamond simulant utilizing a unique lab process resulting in “the perfect diamond simulant.” Nexus Diamonds are composed of a proprietary blend of corundum coating to increase the hardness of the stone and reduce porosity. 

Nexus Diamonds rate 9.1-9.2 on the Mohs hardness scale.

Choosing a Nexus Diamond or moissanite depends on your personal preference. If you love the look of a diamond, a Nexus Diamond will be your best option. Don't lose out on the beauty and brilliance of a diamond-- choose a more affordable, sustainable option instead with a Nexus Diamond. 

If you love show-stopping fire, moissanite is a great choice. 

Both moissanite and Nexus Diamonds are priced below natural diamonds of the same quality. Nexus Diamonds may be priced slightly higher, but not enough to determine the final outcome. Analyzing these gorgeous stones side by side will help make your decision easier.

REFERENCES

Nexus Diamond

https://www.diamondnexus.com/blog/are-lab-diamonds-real/#:~:text=The%20Nexus%20Diamond%E2%84%A2%20alternative,and%20it%20costs%20significantly%20less.

Nexus Diamond,

https://www.diamondnexus.com/learn/guarantees/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PMax%20-%20Smart%20Shopping%20-%20Rings%20-%20BoF&gclid=Cj0KCQjwn9CgBhDjARIsAD15h0CVt8EWwoWvMFKPmDidpHwiI1Rv3l8h9PUpQmO_azQcKJUHoQ7e6VoaArC6EALw_wcB

MOHS SCALE

https://www.nps.gov/articles/mohs-hardness-scale.htm