Discovering Moissanite: A Brilliant Choice for Your Jewelry
If you're on the hunt for a stunning gemstone that offers both beauty and sustainability, look no further than moissanite. This gem has a fascinating history and a myriad of qualities that make it a fantastic alternative to traditional diamonds.
A Brief History of Moissanite
Moissanite's story begins in 1893, when Henri Moissan, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist, discovered particles of the mineral within a meteorite impact crater. Initially mistaking them for diamonds, Moissan soon realized that these crystals were made of silicon carbide, not carbon like diamonds. Fast forward to the 1990s, when scientists in North Carolina successfully developed a method to grow moissanite in laboratories. Today, all moissanite available in the market is lab-grown due to its rarity in nature.
Beauty Beyond Compare
One of moissanite's standout features is its exceptional brilliance. With a refractive index higher than that of diamonds (2.65 – 2.69 versus 2.42), moissanite exhibits more fire dispersion, creating a dazzling play of rainbow-like flashes. This makes it a top choice for those who desire sparkle that's a step above traditional diamonds.
Color and Clarity
Unlike diamonds, which are graded on the 4 Cs (carat, clarity, color, and cut), moissanite is graded primarily by its color. You can opt for colorless moissanite, comparable to a D-F graded diamond, or near-colorless options akin to G-I grades. Both varieties offer excellent clarity, with no visible inclusions to the naked eye, ensuring a pristine appearance. SHANNON only provides colorless (DEF) moissanite in all of our custom jewelry.
Durability and Eco-Friendliness
On the Mohs Scale of Hardness, moissanite scores an impressive 9.25, just below diamonds at a 10. This hardness makes moissanite highly suitable for everyday wear, whether in rings, necklaces, or earrings. Moissanite's eco-friendly credentials shine bright—it's created in controlled lab environments, avoiding the environmental and ethical concerns associated with traditional mining practices.
Weight and Pricing
Moissanite is sold by its size in millimeters and its "diamond equivalent weight" (DEW), rather than carat weight. Due to its lower density compared to diamond, moissanite gems weigh approximately 12% less than diamonds of the same dimensions. This difference is why a 6.5mm moissanite might have a 1ct diamond equivalent weight, even though it weighs less than a 1ct diamond. This unique selling method ensures that customers can confidently choose moissanite based on their desired appearance and size expectations.
Whether you're shopping for an engagement ring, a pair of earrings, or a pendant, moissanite offers a compelling alternative to traditional gemstones. Its brilliance, durability, and eco-friendly production process make it a gem of choice for those looking to make a sustainable and stylish statement. Next time you're considering adding a new piece to your jewelry collection, consider the timeless allure of moissanite—it's history, sparkle, and responsible sourcing make it a gemstone that truly shines.