What Is DEW in Moissanite?

 

Diamond Equivalent Weight Explained + Full Size Chart

By The Paradise Gems | Atlanta's Premier Moissanite Jewelry

If you've been shopping for moissanite jewelry, you've probably seen the letters "DEW" next to the carat weight. But what does DEW actually mean — and why does it matter when buying moissanite tennis chains, rings, or bracelets?

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about DEW in simple, plain English — plus a complete moissanite size chart so you can shop with confidence.

 

What Does DEW Stand For?

DEW stands for Diamond Equivalent Weight. It is the standard way to describe the size of a moissanite stone by comparing it to what a diamond of the same visual size would weigh in carats.

In other words, DEW tells you how big the stone looks — not how much it actually weighs.

 

Why Can't You Just Use Carats for Moissanite?

Great question. The short answer: moissanite is lighter than diamond.

Moissanite weighs about 10% less than a diamond of the exact same size. So if you put a 6.5mm diamond and a 6.5mm moissanite side by side, they look identical — but they have different weights.

Since gems are traditionally priced and measured by carat weight, jewelers use DEW to give you a clear, fair comparison. It answers the question: "If this were a diamond, what carat would it be?"

 

Moissanite MM to DEW Size Chart

Use this chart to find the right moissanite size for your jewelry. All sizes below are for round cut stones.

Stone Size (MM)	DEW (Diamond Equivalent Weight)	Looks Like
4mm	0.25 ct DEW	Delicate, subtle sparkle
5mm	0.50 ct DEW	Classic everyday size
5.5mm	0.75 ct DEW	Popular for stacking rings
6.5mm	1.00 ct DEW	Most popular size for solitaires
7mm	1.25 ct DEW	Bold and noticeable
7.5mm	1.50 ct DEW	Statement piece territory
8mm	2.00 ct DEW	Luxurious center stone
8.5mm	2.50 ct DEW	Show-stopping brilliance
9mm	3.00 ct DEW	Premium statement jewelry
9.5mm	3.50 ct DEW	Celebrity-level sparkle
10mm	4.00 ct DEW	Ultra-luxury centerpiece
11mm	5.00 ct DEW	Maximum brilliance

 

Pro Tip: For moissanite tennis chains and bracelets, stones typically range from 2mm to 5mm per stone. For rings and pendants, 6.5mm to 9mm (1ct to 3ct DEW) is the most popular range.

 

What DEW Size Should You Choose?

Here's a quick guide based on what you're buying:

 

For Tennis Chains & Bracelets:

•      2mm–3mm stones (0.04–0.10 ct DEW each) — sleek, elegant look

•      4mm–5mm stones (0.25–0.50 ct DEW each) — bold, iced-out style

 

For Rings & Pendants:

•      1.00 ct DEW (6.5mm) — timeless, classic choice

•      1.50–2.00 ct DEW (7.5mm–8mm) — the sweet spot for bold luxury

•      3.00 ct DEW (9mm) and above — celebrity-level statement piece

 

Is DEW the Same as Carat Weight?

No — and this is important to understand before you buy.

DEW is a size comparison, not the actual weight of the stone. A 1.00 ct DEW moissanite looks exactly like a 1.00 ct diamond, but it actually weighs slightly less (around 0.88–0.90 carats in real moissanite weight).

This is perfectly normal and is standard in the moissanite industry. Reputable jewelers — including The Paradise Gems — always list DEW clearly so you know exactly what you're getting.

 

Why Moissanite Is the Smart Choice

Beyond understanding DEW, here's why thousands of customers choose moissanite over diamonds:

•      Up to 90% more affordable than a natural diamond of the same visual size

•      More brilliance and fire than diamond — moissanite sparkles more

•      9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale — second only to diamond

•      100% lab-created — ethical, conflict-free, and eco-friendly

•      GRA certified — every stone comes with an authenticity certificate

 

Shop Moissanite by DEW at The Paradise Gems

At The Paradise Gems, all of our moissanite jewelry is listed with clear DEW specifications so you always know what you're buying. Whether you're shopping for a tennis chain, Cuban link, engagement ring, or bracelet — we make it easy to find your perfect size.

We carry 70+ unique pieces, from subtle everyday styles to bold statement jewelry, all crafted with VVS D-color moissanite and real 925 sterling silver.

 

Shop The Paradise Gems Collection

theparadisegems.com | Atlanta, GA | contact@theparadisegems.com

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is DEW moissanite real?

Yes! DEW is simply a measurement term. Moissanite is a real, lab-created gemstone — not a fake diamond. It has its own unique chemical composition (silicon carbide) and is certified by GRA laboratories.

 

Q: Will moissanite pass a diamond tester?

Most traditional diamond testers will actually read moissanite as a diamond because both have similar thermal conductivity. Specialized testers can tell the difference, but moissanite is sold as moissanite — not as a diamond substitute.

 

Q: What is the best DEW size for a tennis chain?

For a classic tennis chain look, 3mm stones (around 0.10 ct DEW per stone) give a sleek and elegant appearance. For a bolder iced-out look, 4mm–5mm stones are popular. Browse our full tennis chain collection at theparadisegems.com.