If you've been looking at jewellery in New Zealand lately, chances are
you've come across moissanite. It's showing up in engagement rings, earrings,
and custom pieces all over the country, and for good reason. Here's why more
Kiwis are choosing it, and what makes it such a compelling option.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that looks and feels almost identical
to diamond. It was first discovered in a meteor crater in the late 1800s,
and the version used in jewellery today is created in a laboratory under
controlled conditions. The result is a stone that's ethical, consistent in
quality, and stunning to look at.
It scores 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the most durable
gemstones available. Diamond scores 10, so moissanite sits just behind it
and is more than hard enough for everyday jewellery including rings and
earrings worn daily.
The Look Is the Thing
The most common question we hear is whether you can tell the difference
between moissanite and diamond. Honestly? Most people can't. Moissanite
actually has a higher refractive index than diamond, meaning it produces
more light and sparkle. Side by side, it holds its own completely.
For earrings in particular, the difference is essentially invisible. You get
the same clean, brilliant look as diamond studs or drops, without the price
tag that comes with mined stones.
Why the Price Difference Matters
A pair of diamond stud earrings in New Zealand can easily cost $3,000 to
$5,000 or more. The moissanite equivalent sits at a fraction of that, often
$300 to $600, with no visible compromise on appearance.
For a lot of buyers, that gap changes what's possible. It might mean going
bigger on the stone, choosing a more detailed setting, or simply not having
to stretch the budget to breaking point for a piece of jewellery you'll
wear every day.
The same applies to custom rings. When your stone costs significantly less,
more of your budget goes toward design, craftsmanship, and the things that
make a piece truly personal.
Ethics Matter Too
Moissanite is lab-created, which means no mining, no environmental disruption,
and no risk of conflict sourcing. For buyers who care about where their
jewellery comes from, that matters. New Zealand buyers in particular tend to
ask these questions, and moissanite gives a clear answer.
What We Make at Kofsky & Stone
At Kofsky & Stone, moissanite is at the heart of everything we do. Our most
popular pieces are our moissanite earrings, designed for everyday wear with
that unmistakable brilliance. We also work with customers across New Zealand
on custom rings, from engagement rings to personal pieces that need to be
exactly right.
Every piece is made to order. Nothing sits in a warehouse. When you order
from us, it's made for you.
We also have customers who were kind enough to share their experience — you
can read their stories here.
Is Moissanite Right for You?
If you're looking for jewellery that looks beautiful, wears well, and comes
from a place you can feel good about, moissanite is worth a serious look.
It's not a compromise. It's a choice that more and more New Zealanders are
making with confidence.
Browse our moissanite earring collection, or if you have something specific
in mind, find out more about our custom ring service. We'd love to help you
find exactly what you're looking for.