Over the past decade, Moissanite diamonds have become one of the most sought-after gemstones in fine jewelry. Known for their brilliance, fire, and affordability, Moissanite has captured the hearts of modern couples looking for ethical and stunning engagement rings.
Luxury brands like Solomon & Co. have embraced Moissanite alongside the natural and lab-grown diamond collections, offering exquisite designs that blend timeless craftsmanship with modern sustainability.
The Fascinating Origin of Moissanite
Discovery by Dr Henri Moissan
Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 by Dr Henri Moissan, a French chemist who found the gem in a meteor crater in Arizona. Initially mistaken for a diamond, it was later identified as silicon carbide, a completely unique mineral with extraordinary optical qualities.
How Moissanite is Created Today
Natural Moissanite is incredibly rare, so today it’s ethically created in laboratories under precise conditions. This ensures consistency in quality, color, and clarity, making it an eco-friendly and affordable alternative to mined diamonds.
Moissanite vs Diamond: Key Differences
| Feature | Moissanite | Diamond (Natural or Lab-Grown) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Lab-created (silicon carbide crystal) | Natural: formed over billions of years underground; Lab-grown: created using HPHT or CVD methods |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9.25 | 10 (hardest natural substance) |
| Durability | Extremely durable, suitable for daily wear | Most durable gemstone available |
| Brilliance (Sparkle) | Higher refractive index (2.65–2.69) – produces more rainbow/fire-like sparkle | Refractive index (2.42) – classic white brilliance |
| Fire (Dispersion) | 0.104 – very fiery and colorful flashes | 0.044 – more subtle, white light sparkle |
| Luster Type | Glassy to sub-adamantine | Adamantine (distinct, sharp sparkle) |
| Color Range | Usually near-colorless; may have warm/yellow or grey tint in some lights | Available from D (colorless) to Z (yellow/brown); fancy colors also available |
| Clarity | Typically flawless (lab-created) | Can have natural inclusions; graded from Flawless to Included |
| Weight (Density) | Lighter — same size stone weighs ~10–15% less than a diamond | Heavier for same size |
| Thermal Conductivity | Low (does not conduct heat like diamonds) | High (thermal conductivity test identifies real diamonds) |
| Cost | ~10–15% of a comparable diamond’s price | Significantly higher; varies by cut, clarity, color, and carat |
| Ethical & Environmental Impact | Conflict-free and sustainable (lab-created) | Natural: mining impact concerns; Lab-grown: more eco-friendly option |
| Cut Styles | Available in all traditional diamond cuts (round, oval, cushion, etc.) | Same — wide variety of cuts |
| Refractive Index (RI) | 2.65–2.69 | 2.42 |
| Heat Resistance | Excellent (stable up to ~1,100°C) | Excellent (stable up to ~870°C) |
| Resale Value | Lower; limited secondhand market | Higher; established resale and appraisal market |
| Certification | Typically comes with Moissanite-specific grading reports (e.g., Charles & Colvard) | Certified by GIA, IGI, AGS, etc. |
| Overall Look to the Eye | Very brilliant, often “too sparkly” or with a rainbow effect | Classic, elegant, timeless white sparkle |
| Ideal For | Budget-conscious buyers, ethical shoppers, daily wear jewelry | Traditional engagement rings, luxury jewelry, investment pieces |
Types of Moissanite: Classic, Forever One & Premium Grades
Understanding Color Grades (DEF, GHI, etc.)
Moissanites come in various color grades, from colorless (DEF) to near-colorless (GHI). Modern brands like Solomon & Co. often use high-grade colorless Moissanites, ensuring a radiant, diamond-like appearance.
Moissanite Cuts and Shapes
Moissanite is available in all popular shapes, round, oval, cushion, emerald, and pear. Its exceptional optical properties make every cut sparkle brilliantly.
Why Choose a Moissanite Engagement Ring?
Affordability Meets Luxury
For couples who desire beauty, quality, and value, Moissanite engagement rings offer an unbeatable combination. You can enjoy the same luxurious sparkle as a diamond ring for significantly less.
Eco-Friendly & Conflict-Free Choice
Moissanite is the conscientious choice, crafted without mining, ethical, and sustainable. It’s perfect for those who want to celebrate love responsibly.
Solomon & Co.: Redefining Elegance with Diamond Engagement Rings
Natural Diamond Rings by Solomon & Co.
Solomon & Co. offers exquisite natural diamond rings that embody timeless luxury. Each piece is crafted with precision, ensuring unmatched brilliance and authenticity.
Lab-Grown Diamond Rings: Modern Innovation
For those seeking a blend of tradition and technology, Solomon & Co.’s lab-grown diamonds deliver exceptional quality and purity, indistinguishable from natural diamonds.
Moissanite Diamond Rings: Brilliance at Every Budget
The collection of Moissanite engagement rings stands out for its incredible radiance and affordability. Designed to dazzle, these rings capture the essence of eternal love while being eco-conscious.
How to Choose Between Natural, Lab-Grown, and Moissanite Diamonds
Factors to Consider: Budget, Ethics, and Personal Preference
If budget and sustainability are top priorities, Moissanite is ideal. For those valuing tradition, natural diamonds remain timeless. Lab-grown options offer a perfect balance of ethics and authenticity.
Customization Options from Solomon & Co.
Solomon & Co. allows you to customize every ring, from metal type to gemstone cut, ensuring a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your love story.
Caring for Your Moissanite Jewelry
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Moissanite is easy to maintain. Clean it with mild soap and water or a jewelry cleaning solution. Regular cleaning keeps it sparkling like new for decades.
Long-Term Value and Longevity
Unlike imitation gems, Moissanite retains its luster over time and resists clouding, ensuring your ring shines beautifully for a lifetime.
Conclusion
In a world where sustainability meets luxury, Moissanite diamonds offer a modern, affordable, and stunning choice for engagement rings. Whether you choose natural, lab-grown, or Moissanite, Solomon & Co. ensures every piece embodies elegance, brilliance, and lasting love.
FAQs
1. Is Moissanite a real diamond?
No, Moissanite is a distinct gemstone made of silicon carbide, but it’s often mistaken for a diamond due to its similar appearance and brilliance.
2. Does Moissanite lose its sparkle over time?
Absolutely not! Moissanite maintains its brilliance forever with minimal maintenance.
3. Is Moissanite suitable for engagement rings?
Yes, Moissanite’s durability, sparkle, and affordability make it an excellent choice for engagement rings.
4. How do you tell Moissanite from a diamond?
It’s difficult with the naked eye! Professionals use specific testing tools to differentiate between them.
5. Are Moissanites eco-friendly?
Yes. Moissanites are lab-created, making them ethical, conflict-free, and sustainable.
6. Where can you buy quality Moissanite rings?
You can explore premium Moissanite, natural, and lab-grown diamond engagement rings at Solomon & Co., known for their fine craftsmanship and ethical sourcing.
7. Is a Moissanite diamond worth anything?
Yes, Moissanite has value, but it’s less expensive than diamonds since it’s lab-made and more common.
8. Is Moissanite better than cubic zirconia?
Yes, Moissanite is harder, more durable, and sparkles more than cubic zirconia.
9. How long will a Moissanite diamond last?
A lifetime, it’s very hard (9.25 on the Mohs scale) and doesn’t lose its shine.
10. Can a jeweler tell if Moissanite is real?
Yes, professional jewelers can tell Moissanite from diamond using special tools.
11. What is the best cut for Moissanite?
Round brilliant, it maximizes sparkle and hides color best.
12. What not to do with a Moissanite ring?
Avoid harsh chemicals, extreme heat, and rough handling to protect the setting.
13. Why is Moissanite so affordable?
It’s lab-grown, easy to produce, and not as rare as natural gemstones.
14. Which color Moissanite is best?
Colorless (D–F grade) for a diamond-like look; near-colorless (G–H) for warmth and value.
15. Do celebrities wear Moissanite?
Yes, some do, especially those who prefer ethical or affordable alternatives to diamonds.
16. Which cut of Moissanite sparkles the most?
The round brilliant cut gives the most sparkle and fire.