You Thought Diamonds Are Forever? Try Moissanite

We have all come across the catchphrase, “diamonds are forever.” Ranging from De Beers engagement advertisements in 1948 to the 1971 spy film title (the seventh in the James Bond series), this slogan has echoed in the ears of many throughout the decades. But let’s pause and take a break. Are diamonds the only precious gemstones that last “forever”? of course, not. Pound for pound, moissanite offers the same quality or even more than diamonds. Are you surprised? This guide provides details that will open you up to the unique features moissanite gemstones possess.

The Discovery of Moissanite

We cannot precisely state who discovered diamonds, but its history stems from its discovery in India. On the other hand, Henri Moissan discovered moissanite in a meteor strike site in Arizona. In its raw state, the precious metal exists as Silicon Carbide (SiC) – a combination of Silicon and Carbon. The precious mineral is so rare that it is difficult to come by natural moissanite. As a result, scientists grow synthetic moissanite using lab technology. To date, only Charles & Colvard has the exclusive rights to manufacture moissanite crystals.

“Aren’t they fake diamonds?” you may ask. Moissanites share no relationship with diamonds, despite their similar properties. They are unique gemstones. Hence, they are not replicas or “knock-offs.” Some notable features make this precious stone stand out from its counterpart. For one, it has “double refractive” and “birefringence” properties that create a broader spectrum of light, also known as the “rainbow effect.” As such, moissanite stones sparkle more than their cousins. When light passes through the material, it bends and divides into two, giving out more fire than the “single refractive” gemstone.

The Cost of Purchasing a Moissanite Gemstone

Unlike diamonds, moissanite is cheaper to purchase and own. You do not have to empty your purse or wallet to get a moissanite ring, earring, or necklace. There is always a gemstone for your budget size. Moissanite comes in various dimensions and class weights, with the following units – carats and millimetres. When you place a diamond and a moissanite crystal of the same weight side by side, the former is several times more expensive than the latter.

A 1.5-carat diamond ring that will cost you $10,000 may only require a sum of $945 for a 1.5-carat moissanite ring. And instead of spending $25,560 on a 3-carat Princess-Cut diamond, you may only fork out $1,550 for a 3-carat Princess-Cut Moissanite Solitaire ring. Hence, if you need an affordable engagement ring that meets your budget size but offers top quality, moissanite is the way to go.

Different Tints for Your Moissanite Gemstone

Moissanite comes in various colour codes and classifications, ranging from colourless to tinted. For fully transparent gemstones, the Forever One Brilliant jewel by Charles & Colvard is your best bet. They have 100% transparency. Other colourless gemstones also fall in the D to F colour code. Semi-coloured crystals are within the G to I category, and finally, the tinted rocks fall within the J and K colour code.

The semi-coloured moissanite stone gives a warm look, which appeals to a broad audience. However, most people prefer classic, diamond-like moissanite. Unlike diamonds, you can afford any size and weight of your choice.