As fashion has advanced lately, the new generation of shoppers seeks better ways to reflect their lifestyles through their outfits. In this regard, jewels are not left out. Speaking of accessories, diamonds are not the only gemstones that provide people with luxury and beauty; moissanites are also a precious stone to be reckoned with in the fashion world. If you are looking for a cheaper, but quality alternative to diamonds, moissanite is the gemstone for you. Although the mineral bears semblance to its cousin, it differs in several ways, some of which are on par with the other jewel or even exceeding it in excellence. There is more to know about this highly sought-after crystal, which I will discuss extensively in this guide.
*This is a collaborative post.
What Makes Moissanite What it is Today?
When you think of the notable moissanites gemstones, undoubtedly, your mind can’t escape its discoverer – Henri Moissan. The famous French geologist discovered the naturally occurring mineral when examining some rocks in a meteor crash site in Arizona. Due to the mystery surrounding its discovery, many jewellers assume that it is a gemstone, which “comes from the stars.” However, you can find the compound in several rock formations across the globe.
Several years later, a North Carolina company discovered how to convert moissanite in its raw state (Silicon Carbide) to gemstones. Today, you can purchase the beautiful rock and even piece it with your favourite engagement ring band and other appealing materials.
Moissanite Vs Diamonds
Moissanites and diamonds look alike. And that is because of their similar qualities, including toughness and brilliance. However, on taking a close look, moissanite gemstones have double-refractive qualities that make them give out more spectrums of light than their cousins. When a light ray passes through the material, it bends and splits into two parts. For this reason, moissanite is more brilliant than a diamond.
Nevertheless, it is no news that some spouses get mortified when presented with moissanite jewels, as they assume them to be diamond replicas or knock-offs. However, that is a far-fetched statement. Moissanite is a gemstone that is in no way related to a diamond; this is similar to the likes of emeralds, rubies, and CZ’s.
Moving on, Moissanite is the second toughest material in the world, next to diamonds. It has a Mohs hardness rating of 9.5, while its “cousin” sits at 10.
What Seals the Deal for Moissanite?
Are you concerned about ethics when purchasing a gemstone? If yes, you may want to consider moissanite above diamonds. It is no news that the latter has been at the centre of several controversies, including civil unrest and human rights violations in several countries where they are mined. However, moissanite stones are lab-grown by Cree, Inc. As a result, you don’t have to worry about their record or background.
That being stated, most people prefer moissanite to mined diamonds. But, no doubt, the latter. You can purchase a moissanite gemstone in various cuts, colours, and carat weights. Fortunately, there is always a jewel of this category for any budget size, including those that sit at the $300 benchmark.
What do you think about Moissanite? Let me know in the comments below.
*Disclaimer – This is a collaborative post. This post has been pre-written.