Moissanite, gemstone born from the stars

Moissanite Solitaire using our 1ct Diamond Solitaire Ring Shape

In 1893, Nobel-Prize winning scientist Henri Moissan began studying fragments of a meteorite in Diablo Canyon, Arizona. In these fragments, Dr. Moissan discovered minute quantities of a shimmering new mineral, with fire and brilliance never before seen on earth. Thinking he had discovered diamonds, it wasn’t after extensive research that Dr Moissan concluded this new mineral was made of silicon carbide. This mineral is now what we call moissanite, named in Dr Moissan’s honour.

Due to moissanite’s extraterrestrial origins (it is literally a gemstone born from the stars!), moissanite is thought to encourage a better connection to the rest of the universe. Known to bring luck into people’s lives, awake hidden potential and push individuals to finish their goals, moissanite captures the essence and beauty of a star from far far away.

Because natural moissanite is incredibly rare, almost all moissanite on the current market has been laboratory-created. This makes them highly appealing for those seeking an eco-conscious gemstone as they require no mining, have a smaller carbon footprint and result in less environmental impact.

Additionally, as a moissanite requires far less labour than a clear diamond, they are more affordable than diamonds making them an attractive and beautiful diamond alternative. This makes moissanite an excellent choice for individuals who want the look of a large diamond but are more price conscious.

Moissanite scores a 9.25 on the Mohs scale, a very good score that makes it the second-hardest gemstone. Due to its sturdy and durable features, this gem is highly suitable for everyday wear.

While diamonds are graded on Cut, Clarity, Colour and Carat (4 C’s), moissanites are graded solely on colour. Because they are grown in laboratories, they don’t feature any inclusions contained in nearly all diamonds. Primarily ‘colourless’ moissanites can sometimes project a yellowish or yellow-green hue in certain lights. Usually, the larger the moissanite, the more noticeable the colour.

Additionally, moissanite have a heightened brilliance which will shimmer and shine under even the most dull of lights. Exhibiting fiery, rainbow flashes in the sun, moissanite is preferred by many because of their brilliance. And have no fear, a moissanite won’t lose their shine - you can wear it all the time and it won’t change its appearance at all.

Did you know? You can personalise many of our pieces with your choice of stone, including moissanite! Contact us to talk about incorporating moissanite into your unique, handmade heirloom.