Moissanite is a gemstone that has been gaining popularity in recent years, but many people are still unfamiliar with it. This guide will provide you with the information you need to understand moissanite and make an informed decision when choosing moissanite jewelry. From its origin and properties to how to choose the perfect moissanite jewelry, we'll cover it all.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a mineral that was first discovered in the late 1800s by a French scientist named Henri Moissan. He found tiny crystals of the mineral in a meteor crater in Arizona. The mineral was named moissanite in his honor. Moissanite is a rare mineral that is naturally occurring, but it can also be created in a lab. The lab-created moissanite is what is commonly used in jewelry. Lab-created moissanite has the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical properties as natural moissanite. However, it is much more affordable and readily available.
Moissanite is a type of silicon carbide and is composed of carbon and silicon atoms. It has a hexagonal crystal structure, similar to that of a diamond. Moissanite is also known for its high refractive index, which means that it bends light more than most other gemstones and creates more sparkle. This is one of the reasons why moissanite is often compared to diamond in terms of its brilliance and fire.
Why choose Moissanite?
There are several reasons why moissanite is a great choice for jewelry. One of the biggest benefits of moissanite is its incredible brilliance and fire. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, meaning that it bends light more and creates more sparkle. In fact, moissanite is often compared to diamond in terms of its brilliance and fire. According to a study, moissanite can reflect about 50% more light than a diamond. This means that moissanite can appear more brilliant and fiery than a diamond of the same size and quality.
Another benefit of moissanite is its durability. Moissanite is a 9.25 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which is just below diamond, which is a 10. This means that moissanite is a very durable gemstone and is suitable for everyday wear. Moissanite is also a great choice for those who are looking for an ethical and sustainable option. Unlike diamonds, moissanite is not associated with human rights abuses or environmental destruction. The lab-created process of moissanite does not involve mining, thus making it an eco-friendly choice.
Additionally, moissanite is a cost-effective option. Moissanite is significantly less expensive than diamond, often costing a fraction of the price. For example, a 1-carat diamond can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $15,000 or more, while a 1-carat moissanite can cost as little as $500. This makes it a great option for those who want a beautiful and sparkling gemstone without breaking the bank. Plus, with the money you save on the moissanite, you could buy a whole other set of jewelry, like matching earrings or a bracelet. It's like getting two for the price of one!
How to Choose Moissanite Jewelry
When choosing moissanite jewelry, there are a few things to keep in mind. One of the most important things to consider is the quality of the moissanite. Moissanite comes in different grades, and the quality can vary greatly. It's important to choose a reputable retailer and ensure that the moissanite you are purchasing is of a high quality. Look for certifications or grading reports to ensure the quality of the moissanite you are buying.
You should also pay attention to the cut of the moissanite. A well-cut moissanite will have maximum brilliance and fire. A poorly cut moissanite will not sparkle as much and will not be as beautiful. A good way to check the cut is to look at the symmetry and polish of the moissanite. A well-cut moissanite should have good symmetry and a high-quality polish. Additionally, you can also look for the ideal proportions, such as the depth and table percentage of the moissanite, for maximum sparkle.
It's also important to consider the setting of the moissanite. The setting can greatly affect the overall appearance of the moissanite. A simple and elegant setting will showcase the moissanite's beauty and sparkle. A setting with too many accents or embellishments can take away from the beauty of the moissanite. It's important to choose a setting that complements the moissanite and allows it to sparkle to its fullest potential.
Another thing to keep in mind is the size of the moissanite. Moissanite is available in different sizes, and the size can greatly affect the overall appearance of the moissanite. A larger moissanite will have more sparkle and fire, while a smaller moissanite will be more subtle. Ultimately, the size is a matter of personal preference, but it's important to keep in mind that larger moissanites will be more expensive.
Finally, it's important to consider the color of the moissanite. Moissanite comes in different colors, and the color can greatly affect the overall appearance of the moissanite. The most popular color is colorless, but moissanite is also available in yellow, green, and even pink. Colorless moissanite is the most similar to diamond, but some people prefer the unique colors of other moissanite. It's important to choose a color that you personally prefer and that complements the setting and overall style of the piece.
Conclusion
Moissanite is a beautiful and sparkling gemstone that is a great alternative to diamond. It offers many benefits such as its brilliance and fire, durability, and ethical and sustainable nature. Moissanite has its own characteristics and beauty, it is durable, ethical and cost-effective. It's a great option for those who want something unique and sparkly. With the above information in mind, you can make an informed decision when choosing moissanite jewelry, and you will be able to find the perfect piece that suits your personal style and preferences. Whether you want a subtle accent or a statement piece, moissanite is a great choice that won't break the bank. So go ahead, add some sparkle to your life with moissanite jewelry!
When it comes to purchasing Moissanite Jewelry, it's important to do your research and buy from reputable retailers. Look for certifications, grading reports, and ensure that the Moissanite you are buying is of high quality. Additionally, be sure to consider the cut, setting, size, and color of the moissanite to ensure you are getting the most beautiful and sparkly piece possible.
As the demand for moissanite continues to grow, it's important to note that not all moissanite is created equal. Be sure to look for certifications such as GRA or AGS, to ensure that the moissanite you are purchasing is of the highest quality and standards.
In conclusion, Moissanite is a beautiful, brilliant, and eco-friendly alternative to diamonds, that won't break the bank. With its wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, it is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to add some sparkle to their life. Keep in mind that Moissanite is a unique gemstone with its own characteristics and beauty, it is durable, ethical and cost-effective, so choose the one that suits you the best.
It's time to let go of the traditional diamond and embrace the new diamond alternative, Moissanite. It's a win-win situation- you get a beautiful, sparkling gemstone, and you get to feel good about your purchase knowing that it's eco-friendly and ethically-sourced. So, if you're looking to add some sparkle to your life, Moissanite is the way to go.
