WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT
Moissanite
Moissanite
Moissanite is a gemstone derived from stars. It was discovered in 1893 by Henri Moissan, a French scientist who went on to win the Nobel Prize for Chemistry. He discovered minuscule pieces of the gem that would later bear his name in Arizona, in a crater formed by a meteorite that crashed to Earth. He initially believed he had discovered diamonds, but later realized that the crystals were made of silicon carbide.
Because natural moissanite is extremely rare, most moissanite on the market today is synthetic. After many years of trial and error, Moissan's particles were successfully synthesized into one of the world's most brilliant jewels.
Moissanite, often known as a diamond simulant, is designed to provide the appearance of diamond resemblance while being chemically and optically distinct from a real diamond. The durability, brilliance, and color of the two jewels are significantly different. Diamonds and moissanites both have a high heat conductivity.
Benefits of Moissanite
If you want a center stone that is firm and shiny but less expensive than diamonds, moissanite is an excellent option. It has the following advantages.
A moissanite stone looks like a diamond but costs far less. That means you can increase carat weight without spending a fortune.
Moissanite possesses nearly perfect clarity. A good stone is free of defects and imperfections. Moissanite gemstones also have greater fire and sparkle than diamonds.
Moissanite is the second most durable gemstone, behind diamonds. It ranks 9.25-9.5 on the Mohs hardness scale (diamonds are a 10). It does not scratch, tarnish, or rub away like many other gemstones.
Grading of Moissanite Color
On the industry-wide D-to-Z grading scale, normal Moissanite stones will have one of the following grades:
1. Colorless Moissanite stones are graded D-E-F.
2. Near-colorless Moissanite stones are graded G-H-I.
3. Slightly tinted Moissanite stones are graded J-K.
As you progress through the alphabetical grading scale, the Moissanite color becomes more yellow or brown.
Moissanite VS Lab Grown Diamond
Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are both popular alternatives to natural diamonds, each with its own set of characteristics.
Moissanite
Composed of silicon carbide (SiC) and is a distinct mineral with its own unique properties. It has a different crystal structure than diamonds.
Lab Grown Diamond
Composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure, identical to natural diamonds.
Very hard, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Shares the same hardness as natural diamonds, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest known material.
Exhibits a high degree of brilliance and fire, often displaying more colorful flashes of light than diamonds.
Displays a similar level of brilliance and sparkle to natural diamonds, characterized by white light reflections.
Generally exhibits more rainbow-like flashes of color, especially under certain lighting conditions.
Can be produced with a range of colors, but high-quality diamonds are typically colorless or near-colorless.
More affordable than both natural and lab-grown diamonds, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Usually more affordable than natural diamonds but can still vary in price based on factors such as size, quality, and cut.
Discovered in meteorites, but moissanite used in jewelry is typically created in a lab.
Created in controlled laboratory conditions, replicating the natural diamond formation process.
Does moissanite scratch easily?
While moissanite is a very hard gemstone and resistant to scratching, it can still develop surface scratches over time with regular wear. However, it maintains its durability and brilliance well.
Does moissanite have any color variations?
Moissanite can exhibit color variations, and some stones may have a slight yellow or greenish hue. However, high-quality moissanite is often near-colorless, and the color variations are generally less noticeable compared to diamonds.
Can moissanite be distinguished from diamonds by the naked eye?
While moissanite closely resembles diamonds, especially to the naked eye, there are subtle differences that a trained gemologist or specialized testing equipment can identify. For most consumers, these differences are not easily noticeable without close examination.
Does moissanite scratch easily?
While moissanite is a very hard gemstone and resistant to scratching, it can still develop surface scratches over time with regular wear. However, it maintains its durability and brilliance well.
Can moissanite be used in other types of jewelry besides rings?
Yes, moissanite is versatile and can be used in various types of jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories. Its affordability and attractive appearance make it a popular choice for a range of designs.
How does moissanite contribute to ethical and environmental considerations?
Moissanite is considered a more ethical and environmentally friendly choice compared to natural diamonds. It is lab-created, reducing the environmental impact associated with mining, and it is not associated with the ethical concerns related to some diamond mining practices.
Does moissanite change color over time?
Moissanite is known for maintaining its color stability over time. Unlike some natural diamonds that may exhibit color changes due to impurities or treatments, moissanite's color remains consistent.
Are there different cuts and shapes available for moissanite?
Moissanite is available in various cuts and shapes, similar to diamonds. Popular cuts include round, princess, cushion, and emerald, among others. The wide range of options allows for customization based on individual style preferences.
Does moissanite come with certifications?
Moissanite may come with certificates from gemological laboratories that provide information about its cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Certifications can add value and assurance to the quality of the moissanite.