Understanding Moissanite Grading: Our Approach Inspired by GIA's New Lab-Grown Diamond Standards
At Gems of Elah, we are committed to providing transparency and quality in every gemstone we offer. With the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) recently updating its grading system for lab-grown diamonds—introducing simplified categories of "Premium" and "Standard"—we have adopted a similar approach to grading our moissanites, ensuring clarity and confidence for our customers.
GIA's New Grading System for Lab-Grown Diamonds
The GIA, a leading authority in gemology, announced in June 2025 that it will discontinue the traditional 4Cs grading system (Cut, Colour, Clarity, Carat) for lab-grown diamonds. Instead, lab-grown diamonds will now be categorized as either "Premium" or "Standard," based on a combination of colour, clarity, and finish. This change reflects the observation that over 95% of lab-grown diamonds fall within a narrow range of colour and clarity, making the traditional grading scales less relevant for these stones.
Our Moissanite Grading: Inspired by GIA's Approach
Recognising the need for a grading system that accurately reflects the quality of moissanites, we have implemented a similar two-tiered classification:
Premium Moissanite: These stones exhibit exceptional brilliance, near-colourless appearance, and minimal inclusions. They are meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards of cut, polish, and symmetry.
Standard Moissanite: While still offering remarkable beauty and durability, these stones may display slight colour tints or minor inclusions. They represent an excellent value without compromising on overall quality.
By adopting this simplified grading system, we aim to provide our customers with clear and concise information, making it easier to choose the perfect moissanite for their needs.
Understanding the 4Cs of Moissanite
While moissanites are distinct from diamonds, the 4Cs still serve as a helpful guide in evaluating their quality:
Cut: The cut determines how well a moissanite reflects light, contributing to its brilliance and fire. A well-cut moissanite maximizes its optical properties.
Colour: Moissanites range from colourless to near-colourless. Premium stones are typically in the D-F range, offering a clear, icy appearance.
Clarity: Most moissanites are eye-clean, meaning inclusions are not visible without magnification. Higher clarity grades indicate fewer internal imperfections.
Carat: Moissanites are measured by size (millimetres) rather than weight. They are lighter than diamonds, so a moissanite of the same size will weigh less.
Why Choose Our Moissanites?
By aligning our grading practices with the latest industry standards, we ensure that our customers receive moissanites of exceptional quality and value. Our transparent grading system, inspired by GIA's recent updates, simplifies the selection process and instils confidence in your purchase.
Explore our collection of Premium and Standard moissanites to find the perfect stone that meets your preferences and budget.
Note: For more information on GIA's new grading system for lab-grown diamonds, please refer to their official announcement .