What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral, silicon carbide, that is found in limited quantities in the earth. While moissanite exists in nature, it is so incredibly rare that it must be created in a lab to produce pieces large enough to cut into gemstones. When cut and faceted, moissanite is by definition, the world’s most brilliant gem.

 

Moissanite FAQs

Where Does Moissanite Come From?

Moissanite is a rare, naturally occurring mineral also known as silicon carbide. It was first discovered by the Nobel Prize-winning chemist Dr. Henri Moissan at the site of a massive meteorite strike in Arizona. This intriguing new stone was named “moissanite” in his honor.

How Is Moissanite Made?

In the late 90’s, scientists developed the innovative thermal growing process that creates silicon carbide crystals in a lab. These crystals are cut and faceted into moissanite gemstones and they rival any natural gemstone in fire and brilliance.

 

How Long Does Moissanite Last?

In terms of toughness, moissanite ranks second on the Mohs hardness scale just behind diamond in hardness and scratch resistance. Moissanite’s durability makes it an ideal gem for daily wear and ensures it will last a lifetime.

What Is Moissanite Brilliance?

Moissanite brilliance refers to its sparkle! The chemical structure of moissanite allows it to slow down, bend, and redirect light better than any other gemstone. This incredible sparkle measures between 2.65 and 2.69 on the refractive index, making moissanite the world’s most brilliant gem.

 

What Is Moissanite Fire?

Moissanite gems are known for their fire or dispersion, which is defined as a gemstone’s ability to split light to create a rainbow-like effect. Moissanite has more fire than any other gemstone - including diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald!

 

Why Is Moissanite So Expensive?

Moissanite is an incredible gemstone that costs a fraction of what a mined diamond costs. Though more affordable, the quality of moissanite production influences its price. Our process starts in a high-tech lab and once the moissanite is grown, it’s then hand cut and faceted by our experts (using patented technology) to ensure only the highest quality gems are produced.

 

Is Moissanite as Good as a Diamond?

Moissanite is a unique gemstone with its own chemical, physical and optical properties. While it is often compared to a diamond, moissanite has distinct characteristics that make it very different. Moissanite has more fire and brilliance than a diamond at a fraction of the cost. The quality and value of moissanite is often better than that of mined diamonds.

 

How Can You Tell the Difference Between Moissanite and Diamonds?

To the naked eye, the most visible differences between moissanite and diamonds are the fire and sparkle. Moissanite has more fire than a diamond and reflects a rainbow of colors when light passes through the gemstone. Moissanite is also more brilliant than a diamond, meaning it has more sparkle!

 

Where Can You Buy Moissanite?

Charles & Colvard is the premium destination to buy moissanite gems and jewelry. Forever One gems are the pinnacle of moissanite. The silicon carbide material used to make Forever One moissanite is manufactured through a patented process that results in unparalleled clarity compared to other moissanite on the market today. As the original creators of moissanite, Charles & Colvard has more than 25 years of experience cutting and polishing its gems. It’s through progressive technology and relentless innovation that Charles & Colvard created its proprietary specifications to maximize the fire and brilliance of these exceptional gemstones.

 

Is Moissanite graded on the GIA Diamon Color Grading Scale?

Moissanite grading uses a color grading scale that is based upon the GIA diamond color grading scale. There are three grades of moissanite available today: colorless (D-E-F range), near-colorless (G-H-I range) and with faint hues of color (J-K range).