If you've been researching moissanite engagement rings in South Africa, you've probably got questions. We've compiled the most common questions couples ask — and answered them honestly — so you can shop with confidence.
What exactly is moissanite?
Moissanite is a lab-created silicon carbide gemstone. It was first discovered naturally inside a meteor crater in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan, but natural moissanite is incredibly rare. All moissanite used in jewellery today is lab-grown, which makes it fully ethical, conflict-free, and environmentally responsible. It is the hardest gemstone after diamond (9.25 Mohs) and actually has more brilliance and fire than a diamond.
Is moissanite the same as a fake diamond?
No. Moissanite is a completely different mineral to diamond — it is silicon carbide, whereas diamond is pure carbon. Calling moissanite a "fake diamond" is like calling a sapphire a "fake diamond." Moissanite is a genuine, high-quality gemstone in its own right. It is not a simulant like cubic zirconia, and it is significantly harder, more durable, and more brilliant than CZ.
Will moissanite hold up as an engagement ring?
Yes, absolutely. Moissanite rates 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the most durable gemstones available. It is virtually impossible to scratch under everyday conditions and is resistant to chipping. Moissanite engagement rings are designed for a lifetime of wear — and because the stone is lab-created under controlled conditions, it has no inclusions that could compromise its structural integrity.
Can jewellers tell the difference between moissanite and diamond?
Yes — gemologists can distinguish moissanite from diamond using specialised equipment. Moissanite has a distinctive double refraction under magnification, and electronic diamond testers will read moissanite differently. However, to the naked eye and in everyday settings, moissanite and diamond look virtually identical. Most people — including friends, family, and colleagues — will not be able to tell the difference.
How much does a moissanite engagement ring cost in South Africa?
At Heritage & Co., moissanite engagement rings start from approximately ZAR 8,000 for a classic solitaire setting. A comparable diamond ring of the same visual size would typically cost ZAR 80,000–200,000+. The savings are substantial — which is why so many South African couples are choosing moissanite.
Is moissanite ethical and conflict-free?
Yes. Because all jewellery-grade moissanite is lab-created, it has zero connection to diamond mining and its associated ethical concerns. There are no conflict zones, no exploitative labour practices, and no environmental destruction involved in moissanite production. It is one of the most ethical gemstones you can choose for an engagement ring.
What is DEF colourless moissanite?
Moissanite is graded on a colour scale similar to diamonds. DEF refers to the top three colour grades — D (completely colourless), E (essentially colourless), and F (colourless). DEF moissanite is the highest quality available and appears pure white, just like a top-colour diamond. All Heritage & Co. engagement rings use DEF colourless moissanite.
Does moissanite get cloudy over time?
No. Unlike cubic zirconia, moissanite does not cloud, dull, or lose its brilliance over time. It is a permanent gemstone that will look as brilliant decades from now as it does the day you buy it. You may need to clean it occasionally (warm soapy water and a soft brush works perfectly), but the stone itself does not degrade.
Why should I choose Heritage & Co. for my moissanite ring?
Heritage & Co. (heritageandco.co.za) is a South African fine jewellery brand dedicated to moissanite and fine jewellery. We use only premium DEF colourless moissanite, and every ring is handcrafted in South Africa. We offer a curated range of solitaire, halo, and cluster engagement ring styles in sterling silver, gold vermeil, and solid gold. We ship nationwide and are committed to making beautiful, ethical jewellery accessible to all South Africans.
Browse our full engagement ring collection at heritageandco.co.za/collections/engagement-rings.
