The Brilliant Alternative
Moissanite is quickly becoming a favorite choice for those seeking a stunning and affordable alternative to traditional gemstones. Renowned for its brilliance and fire, moissanite offers an unparalleled sparkle that captivates the eye. Here, we look at what makes moissanite so special, its comparison to diamonds, and why it's a fantastic choice for your next piece of jewelry.
The History and Creation of Moissanite
Moissanite, a gemstone of celestial origin, was first unearthed in 1893 by Nobel Prize-winning French scientist Henri Moissan. He discovered its particles in a meteorite crater in Arizona, initially mistaking them for diamonds before realizing they were silicon carbide crystals. Due to the rarity of natural moissanite, most available today is lab-created, replicating the natural process that occurs over millions of years. The laboratory creation of moissanite mimics it’s natural formation, using high pressure and heat. Silicon carbide powder is heated to a gaseous state, then carefully processed under controlled conditions to grow the crystal. This lab-based method typically spans several months. Over years of development, these crystals have been successfully synthesized into one of the most brilliant gemstones in existence. SARDA’s moissanite collection represents the pinnacle of this brilliant gem, offering unmatched clarity and color.
Moissanite vs. Diamond: What's the Difference?
While diamonds have long been the traditional choice for fine jewelry, moissanite offers a affordable and compelling alternative. Here are some key differences:
- Brilliance and Fire: Moissanite has a higher refractive index (2.65) than diamonds (2.42), meaning it reflects more light and exhibits greater brilliance. Its dispersion, or fire, is also higher, creating a dazzling display of rainbow flashes.
- Durability: Moissanite is incredibly durable, with a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, just below diamonds at 10. This makes it suitable for everyday wear and resistant to scratching and chipping.
- Affordability: Moissanite is significantly more affordable than diamonds, offering exceptional value without compromising on beauty or durability. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who still want a stunning gemstone.
- Color: Moissanite is available in a range of colors, but most are near-colorless. However, under certain lighting conditions, moissanite can exhibit a subtle yellow or green tint. Technological advances have produced near-colorless moissanite with exceptional clarity, while treatments like the Utopia™ and Fantasia™ Processes create vibrantly colored moissanite.
Learn more about moissanite vs. diamond from the International Gem Society.
The Fire of Moissanite: A Spectacular Display
One of the most captivating features of moissanite is its extraordinary fire. Fire refers to the gemstone's ability to disperse light into a spectrum of colors, creating a mesmerizing play of rainbow flashes. Moissanite's higher dispersion rate (0.104) compared to diamonds (0.044) means it exhibits more fire, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any piece of jewelry.
Caring for Your Moissanite Jewelry
Maintaining the brilliance and fire of your moissanite jewelry is simple with proper care:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your moissanite jewelry with SARDA’s premium natural, plant based jewelry cleaner and polishing cream or mild soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any dirt or oils. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Shop SARDA’s jewelry cleaning kit here.
- Safe Storage: Store your moissanite jewelry in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and keep it looking its best.
- Routine Check-ups: Periodically check the settings of your moissanite jewelry to ensure the gemstone is secure. This helps prevent any accidental loss or damage.
More information on caring for your sterling silver jewelry can be found here.
