Shop Moissanite Engagement Rings For Women Online

Moissanite - A Rising Star

The gem sells for about a tenth of what diamonds do. It was originally discovered in its natural form in the late 19th century by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Henri Moissan at an Arizona meteorite strike site called Canyon Diablo – Devil’s Canyon.

Moissan is described as “an excellent lecturer and a meticulous and patient experimentalist” on the Nobel Prize website. He did, though, originally mistake the moissanite fragments for diamonds, but later fell under the new rock’s devilish spell and devoted his life to recreating it. His efforts were in vain; but as it happens the Swedish discoverer of silicon, Jöns Jacob Berzelius, had already synthesised its constituent compound, silicon carbide (SiC), also known as carborundum.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) rates moissanite superior to diamond in overall appearance and heft. For some, moissanite is also less morally tainted given the controversies that surround the diamond industry. (So-called blood diamonds inspired the 2006 political war thriller starring Leonardo DiCaprio, which highlighted the dark side of the world’s most successfully branded gem.)

In previous decades couples were told they must have a certain-sized diamond that consumed a certain percentage of their salary.

Now, picking a ring is about making a meaningful purchase that aligns with your values and goals. The current generation cares less about societal pressure and more about having money left for travel and other experiences.

Plus, we care about the impact our purchases have on the Earth. Moissanite is gorgeous, and its story is also one of responsibility that fits perfectly with the values of this generation

Description

What exactly is moissanite?

Moissanite is one of the rarest naturally occurring minerals found in nature—it was discovered over a century ago at the site of a meteorite strike in Arizona, and has a very similar look to diamonds. Scientists later developed a thermal growing process to create the silicon carbide crystals that make up moissanite in a lab. This process takes two to three months for the creation of a single gem, which is then cut according to specific angles and proportions to help enhance its brilliance.

How does moissanite compare to diamonds?

Traditional mined diamonds are created from the compression of coal and minerals over hundreds of years, whereas the precious stone moissanite was originally found in miniscule fragments of meteorite. While initially thought to be diamonds, scientists later discovered they were instead composed of silicon carbide. Moissanite is naturally more brilliant than diamonds and has more fire, so not only does the gem look remarkably similar, but it actually out-sparkles diamonds. On top of that, during the lab-creation process, specialists examine each individual stone to determine where its natural cuts lie and use special cutting techniques to enhance its unique fire. Moissanite comes in two color grades: colorless and near-colorless (which has a slight icy blue tint), and if you’re in the market for a specific look, it’s available in all the same cuts, settings and configurations as diamonds.

Will moissanite last?

Short answer: Yes! Moissanite is second only to diamonds on the hardness scale, meaning it’s nearly as durable and scratch-resistant as its counterpart. Plus, it’s more heat-resistant than a diamond, so it’s highly unlikely the stone would be damaged during routine jewelry repair. Moissanite can be cleaned the same way you’d clean any other fine jewelry: with a non-acid based jewelry cleaner or mild soap and water and a toothbrush.

Is it environmentally friendly?

Since moissanite is developed in a controlled environment, i.e. man-made in a laboratory, there’s no mining necessary. Creating these gems is not harmful to the earth and avoids any issues with conflict trade. Compared with natural gemstones, moissanite’s origins are both traceable and completely eco-friendly, so you can admire your beautiful new bling, and feel good knowing exactly where it comes from. (Diamond Fire Jewellery goes one step further to ensure peace of mind as all our Gold products are made from recycled Gold)

How much does moissanite cost?

Moissanite is not only a smart choice for the earth, but for your wallet as well. While a diamond’s price varies based on cut, clarity and other characteristics, moissanite’s cost usually varies only with size and color grade. The lab-created stones are more affordable than both mined and lab-made diamonds, meaning you’ll save a significant amount on similarly sized gems.

You can browse engagement rings in all shapes and sizes on our website, there’s something for every taste and budget.