How Much Does Moissanite Cost Per Carat? A Complete 2026 Price Guide

August 28, 2026

Moissanite pricing is one of the most searched topics for buyers new to the gemstone — and it's genuinely confusing because prices vary significantly depending on carat weight, cut, color grade, and where you buy. Here's a complete, honest breakdown of what moissanite actually costs in 2026.

Moissanite Price Per Carat: The Baseline

Unlike diamonds, moissanite does not have a standardized price-per-carat index like the Rapaport Report. Prices vary by seller, quality grade, and cut. That said, here are realistic retail price ranges for DEF color (colorless), VVS1 clarity moissanite — the highest quality grade available:

0.5 carat (5mm round): $150–$250 for the stone alone
1 carat (6.5mm round): $300–$600
1.5 carat (7.4mm round): $450–$900
2 carat (8.1mm round): $600–$1,200
3 carat (9.4mm round): $900–$1,800

These are loose stone prices. A complete ring (stone + setting) adds $100–$500+ depending on metal choice and setting complexity.

What Affects Moissanite Price?

Carat weight: The primary price driver. Larger stones cost more, but moissanite pricing scales more linearly than diamond pricing — doubling the carat weight roughly doubles the price, rather than the exponential increases seen with diamonds.

Color grade: DEF (colorless) moissanite costs more than GH (near-colorless) or lower grades. The difference is visible under magnification and in certain lighting conditions. At Moissanite Shine, we sell only DEF color stones — the highest grade available.

Cut: Round brilliant is the most expensive cut because it requires the most raw material and the most precise cutting. Fancy shapes (oval, pear, cushion, marquise) are often slightly less expensive for the same carat weight.

Certification: GRA-certified stones cost slightly more than uncertified stones, but the certification is worth it — it's your guarantee of what you're actually buying. Read more: GRA Certificate Explained.

Metal: The ring setting significantly affects total price. Sterling silver with plating is the most affordable option. Solid 14K gold adds $200–$600. Solid 18K gold or platinum adds $400–$1,500+.

Moissanite vs. Diamond: The Price Comparison

A 1-carat diamond (G/VS2) retails for $4,000–7,000. A 1-carat moissanite (DEF/VVS1) retails for $300–$600. The savings are approximately 90–95%. Read our full comparison: Moissanite vs. Diamond: Price Per Carat Compared.

Why Do Prices Vary Between Sellers?

Moissanite quality is not standardized across all sellers. Some sellers use lower color grades (GH or below) and market them as "colorless." Some sell uncertified stones. Some use thinner plating on their settings. Price differences often reflect these quality differences — not just markup.

When comparing prices, always check: What color grade? What clarity? Is it GRA-certified? What metal is the setting? A $150 moissanite ring and a $500 moissanite ring are often not the same product.

What Does Your Budget Buy at Moissanite Shine?

Under $300: Beautiful moissanite earrings, pendants, or a simple solitaire ring in plated silver. Real DEF/VVS1 stones, GRA-certified. Explore our earring collection and necklace collection.

$300–$600: A 1-carat engagement ring in plated silver, or a smaller stone in solid gold. Our most popular price range. Explore our engagement ring collection.

$600–1,500: A 1–2 carat ring in solid 14K gold, or a larger stone in plated silver. Significant fine jewelry at an accessible price. Browse our best sellers.

$1,500+: 2–3 carat rings in solid 18K gold or platinum. Statement pieces with maximum stone quality and premium metal. Request a custom design for something truly unique.

🛡️ Lifetime Gemstone Warranty — Your stones are protected forever.

⬆️ Lifetime Upgrade Program — Upgrade your stones or metal anytime.

✏️ Request a Custom Design — Make it uniquely yours.