Moissanite is a gemstone that has become very popular over the last decade. Why? Because it is beautiful, durable, and affordable. What makes moissanite even better is its unique properties. As people continue learning more about Moissanite, they are much more interested in choosing it.
One important thing to know is the fact that moissanite is mined from the same rock as diamonds. However, unlike diamonds, moissanite does not contain carbon. This means that moissanite is much harder than diamond, and therefore more durable. In addition, moissanite is also hypoallergenic, meaning it will not irritate skin or cause allergic reactions.
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History of Moissanite
French scientist Henri Moissan discovered moissanite in 1879. Later on, with continued research, moissanite was tested in the lab and researchers concluded that it was silicon carbide. This gave a lot of hope to manufacturers who could now manufacture it in the lab.
Gemstone dealers found out that heating silicon carbide at temperatures above 2200 degrees Celsius (4100 degrees Fahrenheit), would turn into a shiny white substance. Today, most of the moissanite you find in the market is synthetic. The possibility of producing lab-grown moissanite has increased its supply hence competing favorably with the dominant diamond products.
The Increasing Popularity of Moissanite
The demand for moissanite has been increasing steadily since its discovery. Many people use it in jewelry making for many years now. Nowadays, they also use it in other industries such as electronics, automotive, aerospace, and medical devices. Most importantly, it has taken over other gems in the jewelry industry.
Diamond products have faced a lot of competition due to the introduction of moissanite in that space. A lot more people are buying it due to the value they are getting from moissanite at an affordable cost. Here are detailed reasons why moissanite is a favorite among people:
1. Hardness
Moissanite is one of the hardest stones in existence. Its hardness ranges between 7.5 and 9.0 on the Mohs scale. Diamonds have a hardness of 10.00 on this scale. Therefore, moissanite is comparable to an extremely hard stone-like sapphire. This means that moissanite will never scratch easily. As a result, moissanite jewelry looks good for a long period of time.
2. Durability
Moissanite is one of the strongest gemstones in existence. It is able to withstand extreme heat and pressure without losing its luster. This makes moissanite perfect for use in industrial applications. For example, people use it in high-tech manufacturing equipment because of its durability.
3. Hypoallergenicity
Unlike diamonds, moissanite does not contain any trace of impurities. This means that moissanite is safe for those who suffer from allergies. In fact, moissanite is so hypoallergenic that experts often recommend it for sensitive skin.
4. Value and Price
Moissanite price is lower than that of diamonds. This is partly because moissanite is easier to produce than diamonds. In addition, moissanite is less expensive to mine than diamonds. Since moissanite is cheaper to produce, it competes well against diamonds.
5. Color
Moissanite comes in different colors including yellow, blue, pink, green, orange, red, brown, and black. These colors come from the presence of iron oxide in the mineral structure.
6. Transparency
Moissanite is transparent which makes it ideal for use in jewelry.
7. Longevity
Moissanite lasts longer than diamonds. This is mainly because moissanite does not react chemically with other metals. If exposed to air or moisture, moissanite will lose its shine. However, if stored properly, moissanite will last forever.
8. Weight
Moissanite weighs about three times lighter than diamonds. This makes moissanites ideal for use in jewelry where weight matters.
9. Heat Resistance
Moissanite is resistant to heat up to 2100°C (3600°F). This makes it suitable for use in industrial settings.’
10. High Refractive Index
Refractive index refers to how light bends when passing through a medium. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond. This gives moissanite a brilliant appearance.
Moissanite is becoming more popular because of its beauty, durability, and affordability. If you want to add some sparkle to your life, consider buying Moissanite jewelry. You will not regret it! It is a great alternative to diamond and has high quality properties comparable to those of diamond. The good thing with moissanite is that it offers all that value at a lower cost.
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