Moissanite

 

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite has recently become a popular choice as an alternative to diamonds. But what exactly is moissanite, and why should you consider it as an alternative to diamonds?

Moissanite is a crystal composed of silicon carbide and was discovered by French chemist Henri Moissan in 1893 in a meteorite from Arizona. Because moissanite occurs in very small quantities in nature, most moissanite stones today are produced synthetically in laboratories.

One of the biggest advantages of moissanite is its impressive hardness and brilliance. On the Mohs hardness scale, it is the second hardest stone, surpassed only by diamond. Moissanite also has a higher refractive index than diamond, which means it reflects more light and has an extra shine.

Why choose Moissanite over Diamond?

There are several reasons why moissanite may be a better choice than diamond

Affordable alternative: Moissanite is significantly less expensive than diamonds, meaning you can get a larger stone for the same price as a smaller diamond, or a smaller moissanite for a lower cost.

Durability: Moissanite is extremely durable and hard-wearing. Because the stone is almost as hard as diamond, it is less likely to scratch or crack with daily use.

Brilliance: Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, which makes it reflect light in a way that often gives it a greater impact and more brilliance than a diamond of the same carat weight.

Eco-Friendly Choice: Because moissanite is created in laboratories, no mining is required, making it significantly less environmentally friendly than traditional diamonds mined from the ground.

Ethics and Sustainability: The diamond industry has long been linked to ethical issues, such as labor exploitation and conflict financing. Moissanite, which is synthetically produced, offers a more ethical and fair alternative.

In conclusion, moissanite offers an affordable, sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative for those seeking a beautiful stone with stunning brilliance without the ethical dilemmas that can accompany diamonds.