What is moissanite?

Moissanite is a rare, naturally occurring silicon carbide gemstone that was discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan, hence the name. Moissan found the gemstone within a fallen meteor located in Canyon Diablo, Arizona, initially mistaking it for diamonds. Because of the extreme rarity of this gemstone, the vast majority of moissanite on the market today is lab created and therefore ethical and conflict-free. Moissanite is near-colorless and has a similar refractive index to a diamond, but has more colors and fire making quick flashes of rainbow color when moving the stone around. Though moissanite looks similar to diamond and the DIA deems it the closest diamond imitation, it is its own unique gem with unique chemical and optical properties and is not a synthetic diamond but it is a great diamond alternative.

 

Moissanite gemstones can be colored through the synthetic process or can be applied intentionally. Traces of boron, nitrogen, sulfur, and other elements can result in unintended interactions with carbon in the stone that may leave a slight variation in color.

Browse Moissanite Engagement Rings

See some of the one-of-a-kind Moissanite rings we’ve designed to get inspired.

Moissanite Pros and Cons

Pros

  • An ethical diamond alternative that looks similar
  • More budget-friendly than diamonds
  • More brilliance or sparkle than a diamond
  • Gemstone durability is rated from 1-10 on the Mohs Scale of hardness, moissanites are a 9.25
  • More durable than sapphire, ruby, emerald, morganite, and all gemstones except diamonds

Cons

  • Moissanites distinct sparkle and scintillation can cause  “disco ball effect” that can be more pronounced in sunlight
  • Not as durable or hard as diamonds
  • Some moissanite can appear to have a yellow or green tone

Additional Resources

The pros and cons of diamond vs moissanite.

Can you tell the difference between the two stones?

Lab made diamonds are an ethical alternative that is identical to mined diamonds.

Is Moissanite Worth It?

While Moissanite is a natural gemstone the majority of moissanite rings that are purchased are lab grown. This allows for the price point to be much lower than what you might pay for a diamond of the same size and clarity. Moissanite is an economical option and if often chosen instead of or in place of a diamond for engagement rings, wedding bands or custom jewelry pieces.

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Abby Sparks custom gold ring sketch