The Basics of Moissanite

What is Moissanite and How Does It Compare to Diamonds?

When choosing an engagement ring, you want something that symbolizes your bond and will last a lifetime. With so many factors to consider, including durability, price, and style, it's essential to explore all options, including man-made stones that closely resemble natural gems. If you're considering a diamond alternative, moissanite is a mineral worth exploring. It boasts remarkable brilliance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability, making it an attractive choice for those seeking something unique and eco-friendly.

Moissanite: What Exactly Is It?

Moissanite is an exceptionally rare mineral found in nature, originally discovered at the site of a meteorite strike in Arizona over a century ago. Its appearance closely resembles that of diamonds. However, scientists later developed a thermal growing process to create moissanite in a lab using silicon carbide crystals. Each gem takes two to three months to create and is meticulously cut to enhance its brilliance through specific angles and proportions.

Moissanite vs. Diamonds: A Dazzling Comparison

Unlike traditional mined diamonds formed over hundreds of years from coal and minerals, moissanite's origin lies in minuscule fragments of meteorite. Notably, moissanite surpasses diamonds in brilliance and fire, meaning it not only closely resembles diamonds but actually outshines them. The lab-creation process allows specialists to determine the stone's natural cuts, and with specific cutting techniques, they further enhance its unique fire. Moissanite comes in two color grades: colorless and near-colorless, offering a range of options in various cuts, settings, and configurations, just like diamonds.

Durability and Environmental Friendliness of Moissanite

Rest assured, moissanite is highly durable and scratch-resistant, ranking second only to diamonds on the hardness scale. Additionally, it surpasses diamonds in heat resistance, making it unlikely to be damaged during routine jewelry repair. The best part is that moissanite is environmentally friendly due to its controlled lab creation, eliminating the need for mining and avoiding issues related to conflict trade. With moissanite, you can admire your exquisite new gem while knowing it has a traceable and eco-friendly origin.

The Cost of Moissanite: A Smart Choice

In addition to its environmental benefits, moissanite is a smart financial choice. Unlike diamonds, whose prices fluctuate based on cut, clarity, and other characteristics, moissanite's cost primarily varies based on size and color grade. As a result, these lab-created gems are more affordable than both mined and lab-made diamonds, allowing you to save significantly on gems of similar size and quality. Explore a wide range of engagement rings in various shapes and sizes on our website, catering to every taste and budget.