Moissanite stones are lab-grown gemstones made from silicon carbide. These stones are famous for their resemblance to natural diamonds and are used in many types of jewellery. They are very affordable and are considered the best alternative to natural diamonds. In many ways, moissanite is better than diamonds. In this article, we are going to tell you what is a moissanite.
How is Moissanite Made?
Moissanite is created in the lab using advanced technology. To create this diamond, mainly two advanced processes like the High-Temperature High-Pressure (HTHP) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods are used. These methods are used in the lab to replicate the natural conditions that lead to the formation of moissanite.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Moissanite Stone
Here is a detail of Moissanite’s properties:
Chemical Formula: SiC (Silicon Carbide)
Hardness: 9.25 (second only to diamond)
Refractive Index: 2.65 – 2.69 (higher than diamond)
Dispersion: 0.104 (more than diamond at 0.044)
Color: Usually near-colorless or faint yellow/green
Clarity: Most Moissanite is flawless
Density: 3.21 g/cm³
Moissanite Grading and Certification
Moissanite stones are also graded on the same standards on which natural diamonds are graded. Let us know about all these grading parameters.
- Color Grades
Moissanite is classified according to the color. You have got all the details below:
- Colorless (D-E-F)
- Near Colorless (G-H-I)
- Faint Color (J-K)
- Clarity
Moissanite stones are graded from VVS1 to VS1. These stones naturally contain some inclusions which are not visible to the naked eye. VVS1 has higher clarity than VS1, so they are a little costly.
- Cut
Cut means shape, price and sparkle of a Moissanite diamond depends on its cut. These diamonds come in many cuts which are prepared in the lab.
- Certification
Certification of Moissanite stones is very important because these certificates ensure their quality and purity. There are mainly two certifications for these diamonds, GRA (Gemological Research Association) and IGI (International Gemological Institute). Both of these are reputed certifications.
Features of Moissanite Stones
- Sparkle
Moissanite has a very high refractive index, which makes it produce more sparkle. This diamond sparkles more than natural diamonds.
- Durability
The hardness of this diamond is very high due to which it is used in daily wear jewellery. Moissanite is one of the hardest gemstones.
- Color
Moissanite is available in colorless, near-colorless, and colors options. Colorless moissanite looks just like natural diamond.
- Eco-Friendly
Moissanite diamonds are completely eco-friendly because they are created in a lab. Their making process does not have any negative impact on the environment.
- Affordability
Moissanite costs up to 90% less than natural diamonds. Jewelleries made from these diamonds such as moissanite earrings, studs and rings are also very cost effective.
Popular Use of Moissanite in Jewellery
Moissanite stones are used in many jewellery pieces. They give a premium look to any jewellery:
- Earrings
Studs earrings with moissanite diamonds are in high demand in the market, especially among the young generation
- Necklaces and Pendants
Moissanite Necklaces and Pendants comes in a classic look ,perfect choice for at any event & parties.
- Bracelets
Bracelets are an accessory that is easy to carry and if the bracelets have moissanite diamonds then they look even more appealing.
- Rings
Moissanite rings are available in many shapes and sizes of diamonds, so you can get it in the metal of your choice.
Conclusion
Moissanite is not just an alternative to diamond, but it has many qualities that make it better than diamond. Its matched qualities are rapidly attracting people towards it; this is the reason why the demand for its jewellery has started increasing now.
