Understanding Moissanite: Origin and History
The discovery of Moissanite
Moissanite sparkled into history when French scientist Henri Moissan found crystal shards in a meteor crater in 1893. At first, Moissan thought he had discovered diamonds, but these crystals were actually a new mineral. Today, we call this mineral 'moissanite' after its discoverer. Unlike diamonds, which are formed deep within the Earth, natural moissanite comes from the stars, giving it an extraterrestrial origin that adds to its allure in jewelry making.
What are VVS Diamonds?
VVS diamonds are a type of high-quality diamond known for their exceptional clarity. The term ‘VVS’ stands for 'Very Very Slightly included,' which refers to the minimal presence of internal flaws or inclusions. These are graded under 10x magnification and are among the clearest diamonds, making them highly sought after by those looking for near-perfect gems. In the context of gemstone clarity, VVS diamonds are only surpassed by Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds in the clarity scale. This superior clarity rating often carries a higher price tag owing to their rarity and the skill required to cut and polish them without enhancing any potential inclusions.
Comparing Moissanite to Diamonds
Physical and Chemical Properties
When comparing moissanite to diamonds, it's essential to notice their distinct physical and chemical differences. Moissanite is made of silicon carbide, an incredibly durable compound, while diamonds are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a strong lattice structure. Though both stones sparkle brilliantly, moissanite often exhibits more colorful fire — the flashes of colored light — than diamonds. Additionally, moissanite is less dense, meaning it weighs less than a diamond of the same size. Chemical resilience is where diamonds edge out; they resist acids and other corrosive substances better than moissanite. However, both gems share resistance to scratching, ranking high on the hardness scale.
The Mohs Scale of Hardness
When comparing Moissanite and diamonds, one crucial aspect to consider is hardness. The Mohs Scale of Hardness measures a mineral's ability to withstand scratches. On this scale, diamonds top the chart with a maximum score of 10, renowned for being the hardest natural substance on Earth. Moissanite follows closely behind with a score of 9.25 to 9.50, making it one of the hardest substances known, exceeded only by diamonds. This remarkable hardness means that like diamonds, Moissanite can handle daily wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for jewelry that lasts.
The Concept of Real vs. Synthetic
Defining 'Real' in the Context of Gemstones
When we talk about 'real' gemstones, we often refer to those formed naturally within the Earth. These include diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and others which typically take millions of years to develop. The key characteristic that defines a 'real' gemstone is its natural formation process, involving geological forces without human interference.
However, with advancements in technology, the line between real and synthetic has blurred. Synthetic gemstones, such as lab-created moissanite, share many qualities with their natural counterparts. They possess similar molecular structures and physical properties but are made in controlled environments rather than mined.
The term 'synthetic' might imply 'fake' to some, but within the gemological world, it represents the scientific achievement of replicating nature's creation. Thus, while they are not 'real' in the traditional sense of being naturally occurring, synthetic gemstones like moissanite are genuine in their own right for their quality and resemblance to the originals.
The Market for Moissanite Diamonds
Popularity in Jewelry Making
The rise of moissanite diamonds within the jewelry-making industry is remarkable. Originating as a scarce, naturally occurring mineral, moissanite has swiftly gained traction as a favored choice for jewelers and consumers alike. Its resemblance to diamonds, coupled with a more affordable price tag, has contributed to its growing popularity. Designers are increasingly incorporating moissanite into various styles, ranging from traditional engagement rings to modern, fashion-forward pieces. The sustainable and ethical sourcing of moissanite further boosts its appeal, especially among younger buyers who prioritize eco-conscious purchasing decisions. As moissanite's presence in the market strengthens, it continues to be a driving force in the evolution of jewelry trends.
VVS Clarity in Moissanite
What Does VVS Stand For?
VVS stands for 'Very Very Slightly Included.' This term is used in the gemstone industry to describe the clarity of a gem. Clarity refers to how clear a gemstone is and whether it has any internal inclusions or external blemishes. Inclusions are natural elements found within the gem, while blemishes are surface imperfections. The VVS classification has two levels: VVS1 and VVS2. VVS1 is slightly better in clarity compared to VVS2. However, both are considered to have excellent clarity with inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification by a trained eye.
How Clarity Affects Value
In the world of gemstones, clarity plays a pivotal role in determining value. For Moissanite, VVS stands for 'Very, Very Slightly Included,' a term borrowed from diamond grading. This denotes that the gemstone has minute inclusions that are difficult to see, even under 10x magnification. The higher the clarity, such as VVS in Moissanite, the more valuable and sought-after the stone becomes. Collectors and jewelry enthusiasts often favor gems with fewer inclusions, as they are rarer and possess greater brilliance and fire. Therefore, Moissanite with VVS clarity is a premium choice, offering a stunning appearance similar to the finest diamonds but at a more accessible price point.
Identifying Moissanite and Its Features
How to Recognize Moissanite in Jewelry
To differentiate Moissanite from diamonds in jewelry, look for these key features:
- Double Refraction: Moissanite has a unique optical property that causes double refraction of light, unlike the single refraction seen in diamonds. This can often be noticed when looking closely at the facets of a stone.
- Fire: Moissanite displays a rainbow of colors known as 'fire' which is much more pronounced than that of a diamond. This can be observed in bright light.
- Hardness: While slightly less hard than diamonds, Moissanite still ranks high on the Mohs scale. It can scratch most other materials just like a diamond can.
- Thermal Conductivity: Diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, while Moissanite is not. This is often tested with a diamond tester to determine authenticity.
- Price and Size: Moissanite tends to be less expensive per carat compared to diamonds, allowing for larger stones at similar price points.
By paying attention to these characteristics, you can recognize Moissanite in various types of jewelry settings.
Advantages of Choosing Moissanite Over Diamonds
Cost Effectiveness
One of the main reasons people choose Moissanite over diamonds is its cost-effectiveness. Moissanite jewels, while closely mimicking the sparkle and brilliance of diamonds, often come at a fraction of the price. This affordability is due to the synthetic production process, which bypasses the costly mining and cutting operations associated with natural diamonds. Consequently, buyers can acquire larger, more striking pieces of Moissanite jewelry for the same investment that might only secure a modest diamond. This makes Moissanite an attractive choice for shoppers seeking dazzling beauty without the hefty price tag.
Ethical and Sustainable Sourcing
One significant advantage of moissanite over diamonds is its ethical and sustainable sourcing. Unlike diamonds, which can sometimes come from conflict zones and involve ethical concerns such as labor practices and environmental damage, moissanite offers a guilt-free alternative. It is lab-created, which ensures no human or environmental harm is involved in its production. Choosing moissanite supports responsible sourcing and lessens the impact on the Earth, making it an eco-conscious choice for consumers who are mindful of their ecological footprint. Moreover, moissanite does not contribute to the social issues often associated with diamond mining, such as funding conflict or exploiting workers, which makes it a more morally sound option in the eyes of many shoppers.
Caring for Moissanite Jewelry
Maintenance and Longevity Tips
Moissanite jewelry, with its diamond-like sparkle, requires proper care to ensure it lasts a lifetime. To maintain its brilliance, clean your moissanite pieces regularly with a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub away any buildup, especially behind the stone where grime can collect. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the stone's surface. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Regular inspections by a jeweler are also recommended to check for loose settings. Store your moissanite jewelry separately to prevent scratches and contact with harder objects. With these maintenance and longevity tips, your moissanite jewelry will continue to shine brilliantly for years to come.