Moissanite: Not a Diamond, But Even More Dazzling!

The iconic advertising slogan “A diamond is forever” has ingrained diamonds’ brilliance into our collective imagination. Yet, in recent years, a new contender called “moissanite” has emerged, boasting an equally glamorous appearance at a fraction of the cost. So, what exactly is moissanite? Is it worth buying or collecting?

Moissanite ≠ Diamond: A Lab-Created Marvel

Moissanite is not a diamond, despite its name often including the word “diamond” in marketing. Commercially known as synthetic moissanite or silicon carbide (SiC), it is a lab-created material designed to mimic the appearance of natural diamonds. Unlike other synthetic gemstones like cubic zirconia (CZ) or yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), moissanite is a superior diamond simulant that comes at a fraction of the price—roughly one-tenth the cost of natural diamonds.

Is Natural Moissanite a Thing? Yes, But Rarely.

Although most moissanite available today is man-made, natural moissanite does exist—though it is extremely rare. First discovered in the late 19th century by Dr. Henri Moissan in an Arizona meteor crater, natural moissanite is typically found in small amounts and is often dark green or black, unsuitable for jewelry. Synthetic moissanite, developed to mimic the brilliance of diamonds, dominates the market today.

Moissanite Outshines Diamonds in Brilliance

Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide (SiC) and often features a slight yellow hue. With a Mohs hardness of 9.25 (compared to diamond’s 10) and a refractive index of 2.648–2.691 (higher than diamond’s 2.417), moissanite exhibits greater brilliance and fire than diamonds, thanks to its higher dispersion value (0.104 compared to diamond’s 0.044). This results in a dazzling sparkle that many find even more striking than diamonds.

Moissanite vs. Diamond: Hard to Tell Apart

Since its successful synthesis in the 1980s by Charles & Colvard and subsequent refinement, moissanite has become nearly indistinguishable from diamonds to the naked eye. Even jewelry experts can struggle to differentiate between the two without specialized tools. Unscrupulous sellers may exploit this resemblance to sell moissanite as diamonds. Here’s how you can tell them apart:
1. Thermal Conductivity Tests Are Unreliable
Moissanite’s thermal conductivity is similar to that of diamonds, making heat testers ineffective for distinguishing between them.
2. Hardness Test
A 9.5-hardness testing tool can leave minor abrasion marks on moissanite but will not scratch a diamond.
3. Double Refraction
Unlike diamonds, which are singly refractive, moissanite is doubly refractive. Using a 10x magnifier, you can observe a double image when viewing moissanite through its crown facets.
4. Inclusions
Moissanite often contains linear inclusions, though some stones appear nearly flawless.
5. Specific Gravity Test
Loose stones can be tested by measuring their density: diamonds have a specific gravity of 3.52, while moissanite is 3.22.

Tip: When purchasing diamonds, buy from reputable vendors and insist on certification from trusted organizations like GIA, AGS, or HRD to ensure authenticity.

A Jewel for Everyday Glam, Not Long-Term Investment

Moissanite offers stunning brilliance and affordability, making it an excellent choice for jewelry lovers. It has become a favorite of many celebrities, athletes, and fashion icons, especially in Western markets. However, as a synthetic material, moissanite’s value is subject to market trends and technological advancements. Unlike natural diamonds, whose rarity ensures their enduring value, moissanite may not hold the same appeal as a long-term investment.

In conclusion, while moissanite is a glamorous and budget-friendly alternative for jewelry enthusiasts, those looking to invest in gemstones should carefully consider its synthetic nature and market dynamics. For everyday wear, moissanite is undeniably a sparkling star.