It is almost impossible for the untrained eye to distinguish moissanite from a diamond. The two gemstones also share similar properties, yet moissanite costs several times less. Why is this, and which stone should you choose?
Both gemstones are extremely hard and rival one another in brilliance, cut and other qualities. Diamond is one of the hardest natural minerals, and its name comes from the Greek word meaning ‘indestructible’. Moissanite follows closely behind as the second-hardest gemstone in the world. Both are therefore popular choices for engagement rings.
So what is the difference between them? Moissanite is created in a laboratory. However, it should not be mistaken for a diamond substitute. It is a gemstone in its own right, with its own unique story.
A Nobel Prize, Stardust and Engagement Rings
Moissanite is a material of cosmic origin. It was discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan while examining fragments of a meteorite from Diablo Canyon in Arizona. There, he found a tiny quantity of a sparkling mineral composed of silicon carbide. The scientist received a Nobel Prize for his discovery, and the world later gained a new gemstone.
Moissanite occurs mainly in space, around large stars, in the form of stardust.
So little natural moissanite has been found on Earth that the entire quantity would be sufficient to make approximately one pair of earrings. Yet today, it is a popular choice for engagement rings. How is that possible?
Moissanite: A Synthetic Gemstone That Rivals Diamond
More than 100 years after its discovery, experts succeeded in creating this rare mineral in a laboratory. Moissanite has a hardness of 9.25, a brilliance of 20.40% and 4.25 times more fire than a diamond.
The pioneer was Charles & Colvard, whose moissanites are also available from our jewellery studio. Today, several companies produce synthetic silicon carbide gemstones. Their properties surpass those of natural diamonds in almost every respect, while their price remains considerably lower.
So Which Should You Choose?
A diamond is a timeless choice, representing tradition, prestige and lasting value. Moissanite is a more affordable and environmentally friendly option, but it offers other benefits too. These laboratory-created gemstones are durable and retain their brilliance even after decades.
In our goldsmith studio we offer moissanite and diamond rings as well as other jewellery collection.