It is almost impossible for the untrained eye to distinguish between a moissanite and a diamond. The properties of both gems are also similar. Nevertheless, the price of moissants is several times lower. Why and which gem to choose?
Both gems have high hardness and compete with each other in luster, cut and other qualities. Diamond is among the hardest natural minerals and in Greek diamond means "indestructible". Moissanite is right behind it as the second hardest gemstone in the world. Both are therefore popular in engagement rings. So what is the difference between them? Moissanite is made in a laboratory. However, make no mistake, this is not a substitute for a diamond, but a separate category of jewellery with its own story.
NOBEL PRIZE, STAR DUST AND ENGAGEMENT RINGS
Moissanite is a material of cosmic origin. It was found by Frenchman Henri Moissan when he was examining meteorite fragments from Diablo Canyon in Arizona in 1893. Here he discovered a tiny amount of a glittering mineral made up of silicon carbide. The scientist won the Nobel Prize for the discovery, and humanity later received a new gem. Moissanite is mainly found in space around large stars in the form of star dust. So far, so little of it has been found on Earth that the amount would be enough to make about one pair of earrings. Nevertheless, it is a popular part of engagement rings today. How is it possible?
MOISSANITE - A SYNTHETIC GEMSTONE THAT EQUALS DIAMOND
More than 100 years after its discovery, experts managed to produce the rare mineral in the laboratory. Moissanite has a hardness of 9.25, a luster of 20.40% and even 4.25 times the fire of diamond. The pioneer was the company Charles & Colvard, which you can also purchase in our goldsmith's studio. Today, several companies offer synthetically produced silicon carbides. Their properties exceed natural diamond in almost all parameters, and at the same time they are cheaper.
SO WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?
A diamond is a safe bet. Tradition, prestige and money well spent. Moissanite is an economical and ecological option, but it also has other advantages. Artificial gemstones are eco-friendly, durable and do not lose their luster even after decades.
In our goldsmith studio we offer MOISSANITE AND DIAMOND RINGS as well as OTHER JEWELLERY COLLECTIONS.
