Unveiling the Beauty of Moissanite: All You Need to Know

Discovered in 1893 by the French chemist Henri Moissan, moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral. Also referred to as silicon carbide (SiC), it has gained popularity for its remarkable brilliance and durability, making it an excellent substitute for diamonds.

History of Moissanite

Henri Moissan initially believed he had stumbled upon diamonds within an Arizona meteorite crater. However, upon closer examination, he realized that he had discovered an entirely new mineral with distinct properties separate from those of diamonds. In tribute to his groundbreaking find, this newly discovered mineral was named moissanite after him.

During the early 1900s, synthetic moissanite was developed primarily for industrial applications such as abrasives and cutting tools. It wasn't until the late 1990s that scientists successfully developed moissanite crystals suitable for use in exquisite jewelry pieces.

Properties and Characteristics

Moissanite has a similar appearance to diamonds but is actually a different mineral. It ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it the second hardest natural substance after diamonds. Its chemical and physical properties are also very similar to those of diamonds, making it a highly durable and valuable gemstone.

However, moissanite has one distinct characteristic that sets it apart from diamonds – its fire. Fire refers to the dispersion or the splitting of light into different colors. Moissanite has a higher fire rating compared to diamonds, giving it more sparkle and brilliance than diamonds.

Why Choose Moissanite over Diamond?

Moissanite is often referred to as "the ethical diamond alternative" because unlike diamonds, it is not mined from the earth. Synthetic moissanite is created in a lab using sustainable processes and does not require any mining or harm to the environment.

Maintenance and Care

Moissanite is highly resistant to scratching, chipping, and heat. However, it is not completely indestructible, so proper care and maintenance are still necessary to keep it looking its best. To clean moissanite jewelry, simply soak it in warm water with a mild soap and gently scrub it with a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone. You can also try Oak and Luna jewelry care kit.