5 Reasons Moissanite Costs More Than Cubic Zirconia — and Still Saves You Money

Yes, moissanite jewelry costs more. Here’s what you’re paying for and why the cheapest option isn’t always the best value over time.

By Nyse O. Last updated AUGUST 2026

Here's the honest answer: moissanite jewelry costs more than cubic zirconia jewelry because moissanite is harder, more resistant to scratching and generally produced to more clearly defined quality specifications.

At Mondays Made, the stone is only part of what you're paying for. Our moissanite is set in S925 sterling silver, finished with 18k gold vermeil plating that is significantly thicker than regular plating and covered by a two-year warranty.

So the real comparison isn't only the prices on the tags. It's the quality of the complete piece. Here is exactly where the extra money goes — five reasons, each a real, checkable difference.

ONE

Moissanite is Graded and Held to a Higher Standard

Our white moissanites are D-color, VVS1 clarity — the same grading standard used for high-end diamonds. D-color describes a colorless appearance, while VVS1 means clarity flaws are very, very hard to spot even under magnification.

Cubic zirconia jewelry isn't graded this way at all. "Clear" on a cubic zirconia listing can mean almost anything, because there's no shared standard behind the word.

With Mondays Made moissanite, the specifications give you a clearer idea of what you’re buying.

Mondays Made white moissanite: D-color · VVS1 clarity

TWO

It Resists Scratches for Longer

Moissanite measures approximately 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, while cubic zirconia typically measures around 8–8.5. That makes moissanite more resistant to the fine surface scratches that accumulate through regular wear.

This is especially relevant when comparing moissanite rings with cubic zirconia rings. Rings experience frequent contact with desks, bags and other hard surfaces. Over time, those small knocks can affect how crisp and brilliant a softer stone appears.

You’re not simply paying for a number on a chart. You’re paying for greater resistance to everyday wear.

Moissanite ~9.25 Mohs · Cubic zirconia ~8–8.5 Mohs

THREE

The Metal Underneath Matters Too

A beautiful stone still needs a well-made setting. Many inexpensive pieces use thin plating over brass or other base-metal alloys, which can become visible as the outer finish wears.

Mondays Made jewelry is built on an S925 sterling silver base. Our 18k gold and 18k rose-gold vermeil pieces use a gold layer approximately 2.5–3 microns thick, rather than a thin flash-plated finish. Our silver-tone pieces use a thick layer of rhodium over sterling silver.

You’re paying for more than the moissanite. You’re paying for the metal and finish supporting it too.

S925 sterling silver base · 2.5-3 microns gold vermeil · nickel- & lead-free

FOUR

It’s Backed by a Two-Year Warranty

Every Mondays Made piece comes with a two-year warranty and a 30-day return or exchange period.

That matters because jewelry is meant to be worn - not simply admired in its box. If something covered by our warranty goes wrong, you have a clear way to reach us and make it right.

When comparing prices, look beyond the stone and check what support is included after purchase.

2-year warranty · 30-day returns & exchanges

FIVE

The Real Cost Is Cost Per Wear

A lower price only saves money if you continue wearing the piece.

A $30 cubic zirconia ring may feel like the obvious bargain. But if it becomes scratched, gets replaced or eventually stays in a drawer, its cost per wear rises quickly.

A moissanite ring costs more upfront, but its greater scratch resistance makes it better suited to frequent wear. The longer you keep reaching for it, the more value you receive from that initial purchase.

The better-value piece isn’t necessarily the one with the lowest price. It’s the one you still love wearing years later.

So, Is Moissanite Worth the Higher Price?

Choose cubic zirconia jewelry if the lowest upfront price is your priority or you’re buying something for occasional wear.

Choose moissanite jewelry if you want greater scratch resistance, clearly defined stone specifications and a piece designed for frequent wear.

Moissanite costs more than cubic zirconia - but for jewelry you plan to reach for regularly, it offers better long-term value.