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Diamonds are amazing valuable minerals that have existed for centuries. Almost everyone rocks these gemstones in the form of engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, necklaces, and other accessories. Due to the high demand for this natural mineral, its price sits above the average jewel cost, with some types exceeding the $30,000-mark. Not everyone has such cash to spend on an engagement ring. So, is there an alternative? Moissanites are ideal gemstones that provide the same value or more for a lesser price. They have a rich history of ethical manufacturing, compared to that of traditionally mined diamonds. These factors are a tip of the iceberg; there’s more to uncover in this guide.
Will I End Up with a Diamond Replica?
It is no news that some people liken moissanite to diamond replicas or knock-offs. To these individuals, the rare, naturally occurring compound is no different from the Ring Pop candy. Such opinions may have you at a crossroads. They are far-fetched notions mostly concocted by diamond purists to belittle moissanite.
In truth, moissanite gemstones are unique jewels in their own rights. Their properties make them stand out from the rest.
Moissanites are unique in terms of cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. Some of the cuts you will find include Round, Cushion, Marquise, Radiant, Square or Princess, Trillion, Pear, and Oval. In the same vein, their colours range from colourless to yellow. You will always find a moissanite gemstone for your budget, regardless of its size. Some of the jewels cost as low as $400. However, anything less than that might be a knock-off.
Understanding Its Lab-Grown Process
In its natural state, moissanite is rare to come by and only exist in specific locations worldwide. As such, jewel companies cannot produce them en masse, except they undergo lab technology. Using special techniques and equipment, scientists grow the silicon carbide (SiC) into large crystals before cutting them to smaller bits. Charles and Colvard, a jewel-manufacturing company, has the exclusive rights to produce and distribute the gemstones. Interestingly, there is a huge demand for moissanite in the United States and other parts of the world.
Putting moissanite’s double-refraction properties into perspective, the gemstone’s radiance exceeds that of diamonds. It is 2.4 times more brilliant than its counterpart. So, if you have a soft spot for shiny valuables, you will find moissanite a go-to jewel. But all that glitters is not gold. Not all shiny objects are valuable. However, this is not the case for moissanite. Not only is the gemstone more brilliant than diamond, but it also has almost the same toughness, featuring a 9.5 rating on the Mohs hardness scale. Its counterpart scores a 10-point rating.
Will I Go Bankrupt Purchasing a Moissanite Ring?
It is no news that diamonds are costly. A 1.5 GIA-certified round-cut diamond will set you back over $10,000. Not all individuals have that money to splash on an engagement ring. And even if they do, there are other essential plans worth undertaking. Besides, you can always upgrade your engagement or wedding ring over time. Why spend such an outrageous amount of money on purchasing a 1.5-carat ring, when you could purchase a moissanite version for $449. The gemstone comes with cut-throat prices. Considering other properties discussed in this guide, you have more than a couple of substantial reasons to purchase this gemstone for your loved one.