In a world full of stunning sapphires and radiant rubies, moissanite truly stands out. With its incredible sparkle and impressive durability, this gem has become a favorite for jewelry lovers everywhere. It’s not just beautiful—it’s unforgettable!
Of course, such a standout gem comes with its fair share of questions. Curious about what makes it so extraordinary? You’re in the right place! This article dives into everything you need to know about moissanite—starting with what it is and its fascinating history, followed by whether it undergoes treatments, which metals pair best with it and how to care for this brilliant gem.
So, are you ready to explore the dazzling world of moissanite and uncover why it’s stealing the spotlight? Let’s dive in!
What Is Moissanite?
Simply put, moissanite is a semi-precious gemstone that has gained immense popularity, thanks to its near-colorless hue that closely resembles a diamond. But its appeal doesn’t stop there—moissanite is also the second hardest gemstone after diamond, making it a durable and practical choice, especially for engagement rings.
Believe it or not, moissanite is brighter than an average diamond. It’s also greatly valued for its fire–this refers to the spectrum of colors reflected from the center of the stone in reaction to light.
In addition to its beauty, moissanite is appreciated for its affordability and symbolic connection to strength and commitment. Whether you’re drawn to its aesthetic charm or practical benefits, moissanite is a gemstone that truly shines in every sense.
History of Moissanite
French scientist Henri Moissan, whose name the gemstone bears, discovered it in a meteorite crater in the Amazon in 1893. He initially thought he had discovered a diamond but later realized that the gemstone had a different composition and was made of silicon carbide.
For a long time, moissanite was believed to be found only in meteorites. However, in the late 1950s, the gemstone was discovered in small quantities in a diamond mine in Yakutia, Russia and the Green River Formation in Wyoming.
Moissanite was introduced to the jewelry market in the year 1998. Over the years, it has become extremely popular due to its brilliant shine and lower cost than natural diamonds.
Does Moissanite Undergo Any Treatment?
Not really! Natural moissanites are mostly eye-clean and do not showcase any visible flaws. While they display needle-like inclusions when viewed under a microscope, these imperfections do not aggressively hamper the stone’s brilliance and fire. They are, therefore, usually left untreated. Lab-created moissanites tend to feature minimal to no inclusions and aren’t treated either.
Do Note: moissanites typically have a nearly colorless hue that may be accompanied by yellow or grey undertones. If these undertones are too apparent, the stones are exposed to high-pressure, high-temperature treatment (HPHT) to fix them.
Which Metal Works Well with Moissanite?
Moissanite pairs beautifully with platinum and white gold, as their cool tones enhance its brilliant sparkle and give it a modern, elegant look. These metals are durable, making them a great choice for daily wear and ensuring your jewelry stays beautiful for years to come. So, if you’re drawn to a sleek, contemporary vibe, these options are a perfect match.
If you prefer something warmer, yellow or rose gold offers a stunning contrast to moissanite, adding a romantic or vintage touch to your jewelry. The soft, rosy hues of rose gold are especially popular for creating a dreamy, feminine aesthetic. Yellow gold, on the other hand, lends a classic and luxurious feel to the piece.
Ultimately, the best metal is the one that resonates with your personal style and makes you feel truly special every time you wear it.
Is Moissanite a Durable Gemstone?
With a hardness rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is exceptionally durable. It also has poor cleavage, meaning it is less likely to crack or fracture when subjected to impact, unlike gems with higher cleavage that are more prone to breakage. These qualities make moissanite one of the toughest gemstones available, second only to diamonds in durability.
How Do You Care for Moissanite?
Moissanite is a durable and stunning gem, but proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance over time. Follow these simple tips to keep your moissanite jewelry looking as radiant as the day you got it!
1. Store it properly
To prevent your moissanite from scratching other gems, we recommend placing it in a velvet-lined case, away from your other accessories.
2. Avoid chemicals
Remember to keep your moissanite jewelry away from harsh chemicals, such as alkaline solutions, hydrofluoric acid and ammonium fluoride. Also, put this gem aside before swimming in pools containing chlorine water.
3. Clean it the right way
Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe to use for moissanites. However, if you wish to clean your jewelry at home, consider using a mild soap-water solution and a soft cloth for gentle scrubbing. Rinse with clean water and dry with a lint-free cloth. Alternatively, you can also visit a professional jeweler for the same.
Elegant yet fashion-forward, moissanite is nothing short of sheer artistry! At Angara, we have an elegant and exquisite collection of moissanite jewelry designed just for you. So head over to Angara.com and get ready to be impressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes moissanite sparkle more than a diamond?
Moissanite tends to bend more light than a diamond because of its higher refractive index. It gives it that eye-catching brilliance you can’t miss!
2. Is moissanite a rare gemstone?
Most moissanite available today is lab-created as natural moissanite is extremely rare and found only in small quantities.
3. How does moissanite compare to diamonds in price?
Moissanite offers a luxurious look at a fraction of the cost of diamonds. You get all the sparkle without the hefty price tag!
4. Does moissanite change color over time?
Not at all! Moissanite will always retain its brilliance and color for years.
5. Is moissanite suitable for everyday wear?
Absolutely! With its hardness and durability, moissanite is perfect for daily wear.
