Moissanite: If you’ve been on our website or social media pages, you’ve probably heard of it! What you may not know is the stone’s origin, and that it occurs both naturally in the earth AND can be produced artificially to be used for the same purpose as diamonds – both industrially and in jewelry. Let’s look at the differences between natural and synthetic moissanite, and its important place in the history of YOUR potential engagement ring!
Myth: Natural moissanites are used in your jewelry.
FACT: The moissanites produced by popular labels such as Charles and Colvard, Harro Gem, Amora Gems, etc. are synthetic moissanites, which means they are manmade. Therefore, they are very inexpensive compared to diamonds!
Myth: Natural moissanites are formed in the same way as diamonds.
FACT: Most moissanites were discovered in pieces of meteorites that fell to earth, OR as crystals (inclusions) in similar environments to natural diamonds. They are named for Henri Moissan, who first found them in a meteor crater while examining it! moissanites have been found in variations of colorless, yellow, and green.
Myth: Moissanite, both natural and synthetic, are made up of carbon – like diamonds!
FACT: Moissanites are made up of silicon carbide, a byproduct of carbon and silicon, whether it is manufactured or not. The reason natural moissanites are so rare is because silicon carbide is scarcely found in nature anymore. Synthetic moissanite is commonly confused with lab-grown diamonds, however they have different chemical compositions and are valued independently of one another.
Myth: Moissanite is harder than diamonds, but less brilliant.
FACT: Diamonds are still the most durable gem on the Mohs Hardness Scale! Moissanites are a very close second, with diamonds at a 10/10 and moissanites at a 9.5/10. They also show an incredible amount of brilliance and fire due to their high refractive index, so if you are looking for sparkle, moissanite is a great diamond alternative!
Myth: Moissanite is the same as Cubic Zirconia.
FACT: Cubic Zirconia is made from zircon, which is MUCH less durable than both diamonds and moissanite. While it is used in costume jewelry and travel rings, it does not possess the same hardness for long-term wear and is much more susceptible to chipping, scraping, and breakage! At Lauren B, we do not recommend CZ for every day wear.
The Verdict: Moissanite and diamonds may be different, but they have similar durability and optical appearance. If you are looking for the perfect diamond alternative due to cost or eco-consciousness, look no further than Moissanite! Our clients at LB have a growing appreciation for this gemstone – and we love it just as much! 😉
To view our full inventory of Moissanite rings, click here!