Moissanite is the name given to a mineral called silicon carbide. The naturally occurring mineral's rarity comes from its transportation to Earth, Moissanite is said to have travelled on a meteorite that landed in Arizona, USA many millennia ago. The mineral, because of its rarity can be quite expensive however at the end of the twentieth century jewellers discovered that the stone would make for an ideal gemstone. The newly refined process of creating the rock under laboratory conditions meant that the gems could be more durable and cheaper than diamonds. The Moissanite gemstone was introduced into the Jewelry market in 1998 and is now widely available in most jewellery shops and provides such a good substitute for diamonds that it hard to tell the difference between them. It was even mistake for a diamond by its discoverer Henri Moissan. The stone has become popular with engagement ring designers and buyers alike and features in many modern jewellery collections.
The gem is much less expensive than diamonds making them the perfect alternative for those buying engagement rings on a budget. Despite not costing as much Moissanite is more refractive that diamonds and therefore gives of a more fiery, brilliant and bright appearance to the beholder. The biggest advantage for most is the stones durability, its strength is greater than any other synthetically created diamond substitute and easily outshines and out sparkles them. The stones ethical production is also a big benefit for some future brides ahead of the diamond. All these qualities make it easy for engagement ring designers to recommend the stone for the perfect ring.
The gem however, like many, has some downsides and its important to consider these before deciding whether to feature the Moissanite in an engagement ring. Some examples of the stone can appear a light shade of green or grey rather than the desired colourless. This appearance can be dependent on lighting so take a look at the stone in various light conditions to ensure its the right look for you. The Moissanite also sometimes falls under the stigmatic category of a 'fake diamond' and whilst this is not true, it is a a man-made silicon carbide alternative not a fake, some brides have their hearts set on the 'real deal'. For those on a tighter budget, cubic zirconia is a cheaper option than man-made Mossanite, but has a slightly less brilliant finish.
The Moissanite is said to be from another planet, an extra terrestrial gem yet it will be at home as the centre piece of any Earthly engagement ring. The stone is recommended by engagement ring designers to be ideal for anyone who want a durable, sparkly alternative diamond on a budget.
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