Moissanites are gifts from the stars. Originally discovered inside the crater of a meteorite, moissanite is a unique substance formed from silicon carbide. When comparing moissanites and diamonds, you'll find that they retain several of the same characteristics. They have a similar durability on the Moh's scale, come in a variety of colors, and to the untrained eye can pass for one another. Moissanites, however, display a unique rainbow scintillation that you can't find in diamonds. Loose moissanites are also much more affordable than their diamond counterparts, allowing dreams of a large center stone to more easily become reality.
To learn more about the differences between moissanites and diamonds, check out our moissanite vs. diamond guide. For further questions about moissanites, please contact our jewelry specialists who are happy to help you via phone, chat, virtual or in-person appointment.
Moissanite is a lab-grown gemstone made of silicon carbide. It was first discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan while examining rock samples from a meteorite crater in Arizona. Because of its scarcity, it was not used in jewelry until the 1990s when scientists learned how to create it in a lab. Moissanite is a popular alternative to diamonds because it has similar qualities such as hardness, brilliance, and durability, but comes at a much more accessible price point.
One of the main differences between moissanite and diamonds is their composition. Diamonds are made of pure carbon, while moissanite is made of silicon carbide. This difference gives moissanite a higher refractive index, meaning it has more rainbow sparkle and brilliance than a diamond. Additionally, moissanite is slightly less durable than diamonds, scoring a 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness compared to a diamond's score of 10. Learn more about the differences between moissanite and diamond in our moissanite vs. diamond guide.
Moissanite is a popular alternative to diamond due to its similar appearance and lower cost. While moissanite shares many physical characteristics with diamond, there are a few ways to tell them apart. One of the most noticeable differences is the fire or dispersion. Moissanite has a higher dispersion than diamond, which means that it gives off more colorful flashes of light (that look like rainbows). Another difference is the color. While diamonds can range from colorless to yellow, brown, or even pink, moissanite typically has a slightly yellow or green tint to it.
Another way to tell the difference is by examining the facet patterns. Moissanite tends to have more visible facets than diamond, which can create a "crushed ice" effect, whereas diamonds have fewer and more symmetrical facets. Additionally, moissanite is a bit heavier than diamond and has a slightly different thermal conductivity, which means it will feel warmer to the touch than a diamond of the same size. Finally, if you have access to specialized testing equipment, such as a diamond tester or a loupe, you can test the thermal conductivity or use a UV light to see if the stone has fluorescence, which is a characteristic of some diamonds but never moissanite. Learn more about the differences between moissanite and diamond in our moissanite vs. diamond guide.
Moissanite is a very hard gemstone, scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it one of the hardest gemstones used in jewelry, second only to diamond, which scores a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. The high level of hardness makes moissanite an excellent choice for everyday wear, as it is resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. It is also suitable for use in engagement rings or other pieces of jewelry that are subject to frequent wear.
The hardness of moissanite is due to its crystal structure, which is similar to that of diamond. Moissanite is made of silicon carbide, which is a very strong and durable material. Its hardness also means that it can be cut and polished to a high degree of precision, which allows for excellent light performance and brilliance. While moissanite is not quite as hard as diamond, it is still a very durable and long-lasting gemstone that can be enjoyed for many years. Learn more about the differences between moissanite and diamond in our moissanite vs. diamond guide.
Moissanite is a popular diamond alternative that is known for its brilliance, fire, and affordability. While moissanite is often marketed as a diamond substitute, there are some differences between the two that can be detected with the naked eye. For example, moissanite has a higher refractive index and dispersion than a diamond, which means that it can have more rainbow-colored flashes of light or "fire" than a diamond. Additionally, moissanite has a different crystal structure than a diamond, which can give it a slightly different appearance in certain lighting conditions. Some people describe moissanite as having a "disco ball" effect, where it can appear more sparkly than a diamond in some situations.
However, there are also some similarities between moissanite and diamond that can make it difficult to tell them apart with the naked eye. For example, both stones are very hard and durable, so they can withstand everyday wear and tear without scratching or chipping. Additionally, both stones can be cut and polished to have excellent clarity and brilliance, which can make them look very similar to the untrained eye. Ultimately, whether you can tell the difference between moissanite and diamond with the naked eye depends on your personal preferences and ability to distinguish subtle differences in their appearance. Learn more about the differences between moissanite and diamond in our moissanite vs. diamond guide.
Moissanite is a popular diamond alternative that is less expensive than diamonds. The cost of moissanite varies based on the size, quality, and shape of the stone. Moissanite can be a great option for those who want a beautiful and durable stone, but do not want to spend the high cost of a diamond.
One of the main reasons why moissanite is less expensive than diamonds is because of its availability. While diamonds are limited in supply and take millions of years to form, moissanite can be produced in a lab. This means that the supply of moissanite is not limited, which helps keep the cost down. Additionally, the mining and production process for diamonds is more complex and requires more resources than the production of moissanite.
Another factor that affects the cost of moissanite is its durability. Moissanite is one of the hardest gemstones, with a rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for everyday wear. Moissanite is not prone to chipping or breaking which means it can last for a lifetime with proper care. Overall, the cost of moissanite compared to diamonds makes it a popular choice for those who want a high-quality and beautiful stone without the high cost of a diamond. Learn more about the differences between moissanite and diamond in our moissanite vs. diamond guide.
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