You may have never heard of moissanite, but it has been around for over 120 years, having been discovered in a meteor crater in the late 1800s. Due to its unique characteristics, it is rare to find in nature, but scientists have managed to recreate the gemstone artificially using advanced scientific methods. The process has evolved over the years and with this, the quality of the stones. This makes moissanite a sparkling, spectacular and cost-efficient alternative to conventional diamonds. Moissanite rings boast a brilliance that rivals the most stunning of diamonds and can often score higher in the refractive index depending on the cut of the stone.
Why should I want one?
At a much lower cost than conventionally mined diamonds, and equally popularly used in engagement rings, moissanites also only differ based on their size and quality, rather than having to consider all four major characteristics that diamonds are graded on, namely the 4Cs (cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight).
Depending on the size, shape, and quality of the moissanite stone, you will see more fire and brightness.
Typically, it is said that diamonds have unrivalled fire and brilliance, exhibiting a shine that boasts whiteness and intensity with occasional flashes of colour. There is no comparison between the real sparkle and brilliance of a diamond, and its various imitations. Believe it or not, moissanite has more fire than a diamond, displaying a full spectrum of colour, and this results in a truly colourful sparkle. This is one of the more obvious giveaways, as you can always tell a true diamond by its uniform and predictable shine.
Price matters
A diamond will fetch a much higher price than moissanite, and in addition, will retain its market value based on its rarity and characteristics. Manufactured diamonds are almost identical to mined diamonds, however they are approximately half the price. While moissanite engagement rings are kinder to the wallet, they do not maintain value over time. Owing to the much lower price and almost identical qualities retained by laboratory created diamonds, the demand for imitation diamonds such as moissanite is decreasing.
How do I preserve the integrity of my stone?
In order to maintain the shine and sparkle in your moissanite jewellery, you want to avoid too much contact with the stone. This minimizes the build-up of deposits on the stone, and keeps the setting clean and shiny.
It is advisable to insure your jewellery, particularly in a precious setting such as an engagement ring. If something happens, you want to make sure your valuable items are covered and will be replaced in a worst-case scenario such as theft or fire. No matter the potential disaster, you don’t want to leave this to chance.
On close inspection moissanite rings do not appear to be imitation. They can easily be confused with a genuine diamond ring, even though the stones are different. Only an expert may be able to tell you that your moissanite ring is not a real diamond, and most people will not be able to tell the difference.
I love jewellery, and I think this is a beautiful way of making something special. Have you ever heard of this special stone before? I would love to know in the comments below…
