We all consider diamonds to be among the pioneer gemstones in the jewelry industry. For the longest time, diamond has dominated the industry alongside other metals like silver and gold. However, we have another diamond-like stone called moissanite that has infiltrated the industry. This hypoallergenic stone is a lab-grown substance that looks like a diamond. Many people confuse it with diamond due to its close resemblance to diamond. So, Read on to find out more about what is Moissanite?

Henri Moissan discovered moissanite 1879-93 and found it as Silicon Carbide (SiC) following several tests in the lab. This discovery opened the door to a new world of possibilities for manufacturing these stones in the lab. Today, we have lots of lab-grown diamonds and moissanite in the market. So, what is the difference between these two stones? Well, there is a huge difference based on material composition and other qualities.

Understanding Moissanite and Lab-grown diamonds

Experts mine diamonds from the earth’s crust for the longest time. This is a source of conflict in our communities and hence unethical to acquire such diamonds. As a result, the idea of making diamonds in the lab came up. As the demand for these stones continues to grow, people are moving towards ensuring sufficiency and meeting the market demands.

Even with lab-grown solutions, moissanite and diamonds remain different. Therefore, it is important to note that Moissanite is not diamond. Here is why:

·         Varying Chemical Composition and Properties

Diamonds are primarily made of carbon whereas moissanite is Silicon Carbide (SiC). For that reason, the two stones have different chemical properties. Diamond is the hardest substance on earth. However, improved lab procedures can produce moissanite, which is harder than diamond. It is all about the extent of heat and pressure applied to the substances during formation.

Of the two, moissanite is more durable than lab-grown diamonds. This is so because it is scratch-resistant, unlike diamonds that scratch easily. For that reason, moissanite of the purest quality will serve you for a long period than diamonds.

·         Stone’s cut and Brilliance

One of the defining qualities of gemstones is their cut. Diamond requires sophisticated tools and machinery to cut. However, you can easily cut moissanite to produce varying shapes and sizes. These cuts are responsible for a stone’s fire and brilliance as defined by the refractive index of the stone. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond and that is why it shines much better than diamonds. However, it is important to note that both substances produce a good shine.

Moissanite is available in different shapes and sizes. Therefore, you can make it into different designs and styles. With this stone, you can get many options, unlike diamond, which comes with limited shapes. In that case, you will find more flexible designs with moissanite than diamond.

·         Weight value

A mass of diamond occupying the same volume and space weighs more than that of moissanite. Therefore, this is a distinguishing characteristic to consider when purchasing jewelry in the market. If you want lightweight products, then you should consider buying moissanite. It is perfect for jewelry to wear all day long.

·         Ease of Maintenance

It is easy to clean and maintain moissanite than diamond. You will need special detergents and substances to clean diamonds to keep their sparkle. That is not the case with moissanite. All you need is warm water and soap to wipe off the dirt. Therefore, moissanite maintenance costs are low.

·         Value and Price

Diamond remains an expensive stone because it takes time and heavy machinery to mine it. The sophistication in diamond mining continues to make this precious stone scarce. As a result, the prices are higher than those of lab-grown moissanite. The good thing is that moissanite gives you diamond-like properties at an affordable cost.

Many people refer to moissanite as diamonds but it is good to learn the difference. Their chemical composition says it all. One is made of carbon and the other one is Silicon Carbide (SiC). These two look alike and we use them for almost the same application in various industries including the jewelry industry. However, they vary in terms of strength, appearance, sparkle and durability. If you are working on a budget, moissanite is a great option.