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History
Moissanite, named after its discoverer Dr. Henri Moissan in 1893, was initially mistaken for diamonds when found in an Arizona crater formed by a meteorite. Later identified as silicon carbide crystals, natural moissanite is exceptionally rare, with most moissanite today being lab-created.
Manufacturing
The ability to create moissanite commercially emerged in the late 1990s. These gems are crafted from silicon carbide crystals, a process that takes approximately two to three months per stone. Our moissanite rings include a Limited Lifetime Warranty covering purchases of 4mm or larger, protecting against defects in material and workmanship.
Brilliance
Moissanite's brilliance, or light reflection, is exceptional due to its refractive index (RI) of 2.65 to 2.69. This RI exceeds that of diamonds (RI 2.42) and other popular gemstones, resulting in superior sparkle. The unique faceting pattern of moissanite also contributes to its brilliance, dispersing light in a dazzling manner.
Fire Dispersion
Moissanite's dispersion, measured at 0.104, is unmatched by any other gemstone, including diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald. This property creates a prism effect, scattering light into spectral colors and enhancing its visual appeal. The play of color exhibited by moissanite under different lighting conditions adds to its allure, making it a captivating choice for jewelry enthusiasts.
Hardness and Toughness
With a hardness of 9.25-9.50 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is exceptionally durable and resistant to scratching and abrasion, second only to diamond. Its heat resistance is also notable, remaining intact and brilliant even at temperatures exceeding 2,000ยบF, making it highly suitable for jewelry repair processes. This robustness ensures that moissanite jewelry retains its beauty and durability for years to come.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Lab-created moissanite offers a sustainable and ethical alternative to mined gemstones. By opting for lab-grown moissanite, consumers support environmentally responsible practices and minimize the environmental impact associated with traditional mining.
Popularity and Versatility
Moissanite's affordability, combined with its diamond-like appearance and exceptional optical properties, has contributed to its growing popularity in the jewelry market. It is commonly used as a center stone in engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces, offering luxury without the premium price tag.
Conclusion
Moissanite's cost-effective beauty, combined with its unique optical properties and durability, makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a stunning and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional gemstones. Whether for engagement rings, earrings, or other jewelry pieces, moissanite continues to captivate with its brilliance and versatility, embodying both elegance and responsibility in the modern jewelry industry.