Moissanite, a gemstone known for its brilliance and fire, has become a popular alternative to diamonds in the jewelry market. However, not all moissanite is created equal. There are significant differences between cheap moissanite and quality jeweler moissanite that can affect both the appearance and durability of your jewelry. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision when purchasing moissanite jewelry.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral composed of silicon carbide. It was first discovered in a meteor crater by Henri Moissan in 1893. Due to its rarity in nature, nearly all moissanite used in jewelry today is lab-created. Moissanite is valued for its high refractive index, which gives it exceptional brilliance and fire, often surpassing that of diamonds.
Cheap Moissanite: What to Watch Out For
Lower Quality Material
– Cheap moissanite is often made from lower-quality silicon carbide, which can result in a less brilliant and more cloudy stone. The raw materials used in producing cheap moissanite may contain impurities that affect the stone’s clarity and overall appearance.
Inconsistent Cut and Polish
– The cut and polish of a moissanite stone are crucial to its brilliance and fire. Cheap moissanite may not be cut with the same precision as higher-quality stones, leading to a duller appearance. Poor polishing can also result in a stone that lacks the smooth, mirror-like surface that enhances light reflection.
Color Variations
– While high-quality moissanite is typically colorless or near-colorless, cheap moissanite may exhibit noticeable color variations, often appearing yellowish or greenish. These color inconsistencies can detract from the stone’s diamond-like appearance.
Durability Issues
– Cheap moissanite may not undergo the same rigorous quality control processes as higher-quality stones, resulting in potential durability issues. These stones may be more prone to chipping, scratching, or other damage over time.
Quality Jeweler Moissanite: The Superior Choice
Premium Raw Materials
– Quality jeweler moissanite is crafted from high-grade silicon carbide, ensuring a clearer and more brilliant stone. The use of premium raw materials helps achieve the exceptional optical properties that moissanite is known for.
Expert Cut and Polish
– Professional jewelers meticulously cut and polish quality moissanite to maximize its brilliance and fire. The precision cutting ensures that light is perfectly refracted within the stone, creating the dazzling sparkle that rivals even the finest diamonds.
Consistent Color
– Quality jeweler moissanite is consistently near-colorless, with little to no visible color variations. This consistency ensures that your moissanite jewelry maintains a pristine, diamond-like appearance.
Enhanced Durability
– High-quality moissanite undergoes stringent quality control measures to ensure its durability. These stones are less likely to chip or scratch, making them a reliable and long-lasting choice for everyday wear.
How to Identify Quality Moissanite
Certification
– Look for moissanite that comes with certification from reputable gemological laboratories. Certification provides assurance of the stone’s quality, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Reputable Jewelers
– Purchase moissanite from established and reputable jewelers who specialize in high-quality stones. Reputable jewelers are more likely to offer superior moissanite that has been expertly crafted and rigorously tested.
3Transparency
– Quality moissanite should have excellent transparency and be free from visible inclusions or blemishes.
Price
– While high-quality moissanite is more expensive than cheaper alternatives, it offers better value in terms of brilliance, durability, and overall appearance. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, as they will indicate lower quality.
When it comes to moissanite, investing in quality jeweler moissanite is well worth the extra cost. The superior materials, expert craftsmanship, and enhanced durability ensure that your moissanite jewelry will remain beautiful and sparkling for lifetimes. By understanding the differences between cheap moissanite and quality jeweler moissanite, you can make a more informed decision and enjoy the stunning beauty of this remarkable gemstone.
A lesser quality moissanite might be fine for a fashion ring but you wouldn’t want it for your engaement ring, your forever ring.