1, 2, 3, or 4 Carats? How Much Is a Moissanite Ring Worth at Every Size?

A deep dive into how much is a moissanite ring by carat size, factors affecting its value, and tips for selecting the right size for your style and budget.

1. Introduction

Moissanite rings offer a stunning alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings, combining exceptional beauty, durability, and affordability.

Whether you are eyeing a subtle sparkle or a bold, luxurious statement piece, knowing how much moissanite costs at different carat sizes is key to finding your perfect ring.

A deep dive into how much is a moissanite ring by carat size, factors affecting its value, and tips for selecting the right size for your style and budget.

2. Understanding moissanite and carat size

2.1. What is moissanite?

Moissanite is a gemstone known for its brightness, strength and cost-effectiveness. It was first found in a meteor crater in 1893 by Henri Moissan, a scientist who won the Nobel Prize.

Today, moissanite is produced using advanced technology to imitate its natural appearance as lab-created gemstones. Made of silicon carbide, it has special optical qualities that make it a great substitute for traditional diamonds.

Moissanite stones

With its remarkable beauty and affordability, moissanite rings have become increasingly popular for engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces.

By displaying many of the same characteristics of a diamond in its hardness and alluring sparkle, moissanite can stand up to all the stressors of daily wear without requiring extra care.

2.2. What does "carat size" really mean?

Carats are an important factor to consider when choosing your forever ring. While most people think of carats as an indicator of the visual size of a stone, the term carat (commonly abbreviated to ct) is actually a measurement of the weight of a gemstone.

3-carat diamond cut with different shapes

(From bottom to top: oval, emerald, round, cushion, marquise)

Different diamond shapes can affect how large a diamond of the same carat size looks. For example, a marquise diamond will always seem bigger than an oval diamond because it has a larger surface area.

Similarly, a diamond’s cut also affects its size. Poorly cut diamonds reduce the top surface area, making the diamond appear smaller and less sparkly.

2.3. Why is 1ct moissanite bigger than 1ct diamond?

In fact, moissanite and diamonds don’t weigh the same. Moissanite is approximately 15% lighter than diamond.

The main reason why 1ct moissanite is larger than 1ct diamond is that moissanite has a lower density (3.22 g/cm³) than diamond (3.52 g/cm³).

1 carat round diamond (above) vs. 1 carat round moissanite (below)

Another factor contributing to the perception of moissanite as larger than a diamond of the same carat weight is the higher refractive index and dispersion of moissanite.

Its unique optical properties create larger brilliance under the same lighting, which makes it look visually bigger. This means the costs associated with larger carat sizes of moissanite are in reasonable increments.

3. How much is moissanite worth at different carat sizes?

3.1. 1-carat moissanite

Let’s explore how much is a 1-carat moissanite worth in comparison to that of a 1-carat diamond.

As a guide, you can expect to pay around $5,000 for a nearly colorless 1-carat diamond, but completely colorless moissanite will cost you significantly less at around $500–$1,000.

The 1-carat pave Lotus round moissanite ring

Moissanite's lower cost makes it an excellent choice for minimalist styles, solitaire engagement rings and everyday wear. The 1-carat size is timeless, offering an elegant and understated design that fits perfectly into any occasion.

3.2. 2-carat moissanite

So, how much is a 2-carat moissanite worth? The typical cost of a 2-carat moissanite engagement ring would be approximately $1,000–$1,500. It is perfect for those seeking a bold look without breaking the bank.

The 2-carat princess cut Freyja and 2-carat oval cut Freyja moissanite ring in rose gold

3.3. 3-carat moissanite

A 3-carat moissanite cost price would be approximately $1,500–$3000. This piece is perfect for luxury seekers who want a breathtaking ring with brilliant shine.

The halo Donisha with a 3-carat pear-cut pave moissanite in yellow gold

Additionally, 3-carat stones are becoming increasingly popular in custom anniversary or wedding jewelry, as more couples are opting for larger, eye-catching designs that symbolize lasting love and commitment.

This trend reflects a shift toward bold, personalized choices that stand out while still being cost-effective.

3.4. 4-carat moissanite

A 4-carat moissanite ring is perfect for extravagant designs or high-impact pieces, with an average cost of $2,500 to $4,000. Its unique brilliance and light dispersion make larger stones stand out more than diamonds, offering exceptional sparkle and fire.

The Helena with a 4-carat oval cut moissanite in yellow gold

Its striking size and brilliance make it perfect for those wanting a show-stopping accessory. This piece of jewelry is ideal for cocktail rings or statement pieces if you want to deliver a bold yet luxurious look.

4. What else affects the price of moissanite?

The question “How much does moissanite cost” can be influenced by factors such as the stone's cut, clarity, color, shape and certification:

• 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.
• Color: 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.
• Clarity: 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.
• Shape: The shape and cut of a gemstone can influence how its size and carat weight appear. For instance, an elongated cut, such as a marquise or pear, may look larger than a round cut of the same carat weight.
• Certification: Certification, such as from GRA or Charles & Colvard, can boost trust and enhance the resale value of a gemstone. This added credibility can make the gemstone more appealing and valuable if resold in the future.

5. Comparing moissanite prices to diamond prices

When comparing how much does moissanite cost to diamond prices, the cost difference is significant. For example, a 2-carat diamond can cost over $20,000, while a 2-carat moissanite typically ranges from $1,000 to $1,500, offering substantial savings.

1 carat radiant diamond (above) vs. 1 carat radiant moissanite (below)

In terms of aesthetics, moissanite is known for its brilliance and fire, often outperforming diamonds in sparkle due to its higher refractive index.

Moissanite also appeals to eco-conscious and budget-savvy buyers, as it is a more sustainable and affordable alternative to diamonds, without the ethical concerns associated with mining.

6. Why carat size matters when choosing moissanite

Understanding carat size is crucial because it directly influences the appearance and value of a moissanite stone. Larger carat weights are generally more expensive and visually striking, while smaller carat weights may be more affordable and subtle.

• Impact on style: Larger stones tend to make bold, statement-making designs, while smaller stones offer a more understated, elegant look.
• Hand size and proportion: The carat size should complement the size of the wearer’s hand, as smaller fingers often look better with stones under 1.5 carats, while larger hands can support bigger stones like 2 carats or more.
• Everyday wearability & cultural preferences: It's important to balance carat size with practicality, especially if the ring will be worn daily. In some regions in the U.S., larger stones are more popular, while in places like Asia, more delicate and smaller stones are often preferred.

7. Tips for buying moissanite based on carat size

Selecting the ideal moissanite carat weight for your ring depends on various factors, including your personal preferences, budget, and the intended wearer's style. Consider the following tips when choosing a moissanite stone:

Tip 1: Choose standard & average sizes

Engagement ring sizes can vary depending on your location. A 1.0-carat center stone was once the most popular size for engagement rings.

But trends are now shifting toward larger stones, with many couples opting for 1.25 to 1.50-carat stones. This shift reflects a growing preference for more prominent, eye-catching diamonds or moissanite stones in engagement rings.

Tip 2: Think about the wearer’s style

Consider the lifestyle and profession of the person who will wear the ring. If they lead an active lifestyle or have a job that involves physical work, a smaller center stone may be more practical.

Those who prefer understated elegance might choose smaller stones, while those with a bolder style may opt for larger and more sparkling ones.

Tip 3: Think about your budget

When concerning how much is a moissanite ring, your budget plays a key role. If your partner loves the look of moissanite but is environmentally conscious or concerned about ethical sourcing, moissanite is a great alternative.

One of the advantages of moissanite is that it allows you to choose a larger stone without having to worry about exceeding your budget.

Tip 4: Understand The “illusion of size” created by different moissanite shapes

Once you have set your budget, it is time to select the shape of the moissanite. The shape of the stone can affect how its carat weight appears. For example, a 0.50-carat round moissanite can appear larger than a 0.50-carat princess cut, even though they weigh the same. This is due to the different ways the mass is distributed in each shape.

KNT Jewelry’s moissanite shapes

Tip 5: Consider the shape of your hand

The size of your finger should influence your choice of moissanite size. If you have smaller hands, such as a ring size under 6.5, a 1.0-carat stone or one smaller than 1.50 carats may be ideal.

For larger hands with a ring size above 6.5, a 1.50 to 2.0-carat stone could be more appropriate, as smaller stones may look less prominent on bigger hands. Keep in mind that smaller fingers tend to make stones appear larger.

8. How to care for your moissanite jewelry

8.1. Daily care tips

Clean your rose gold engagement ring once a week to prevent dullness and buildup. Regular cleaning ensures your diamond remains brilliant and protected.

To clean your rose gold engagement ring:

• Step 1: Mix 1 teaspoon of dish soap with 1 cup of warm water until fully dissolved.
• Step 2: Dip your rose gold engagement ring in the solution and use a soft cloth (or soft bristle toothbrush) to gently scrub clean.
• Step 3: Rinse with clean water and let dry on a clean, soft cloth.

How to clean moissanite engagement rings safely

8.2. Long-term maintenance

To maintain the beauty of a moissanite ring over time, regular professional cleaning and inspection are essential. Cleaning ensures the stone remains sparkling, and inspection checks for any loose settings or wear.

For scratches, professionals can carefully buff the band to restore its smooth surface. Additionally, reapplying a protective coating or re-polishing the rose gold finish helps preserve its warm, lustrous appearance, ensuring the ring continues to shine brilliantly for years.

9. Conclusion

Looking for an engagement ring but don’t know how much is moissanite worth and which carat to choose? If you are looking for an affordable and ethical alternative to a diamond ring, moissanite is the ideal choice.

At KNT Jewelry, we use only the highest quality Moissanite, combined with exceptional craftsmanship, to create your perfect forever ring.

Our team is here to guide you throughout the entire process and answer any questions you may have about carats and sizing. Contact us today for a no-obligation quote from one of our jewelry experts.