For many decades, diamonds have been considered the only gemstone worthy enough to be given as engagement jewellery. To be fair, there are numerous reasons why mined diamonds are seen as the ideal jewellery form for such a special occasion. However, if you want something different, inexpensive, and just as fancy, Moissanite rings are a fantastic alternative.
Never heard of it? Too scared to try? We understand that trying out a new gemstone for such a momentous event may seem too risky, especially for a piece of jewellery that symbolises a lifetime of love. So, we’ll help you get familiar with this gemstone and explain why you should make that proposal with it instead of traditional diamonds.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is one of the earth’s lavish gemstones that came from space. It was first discovered in a meteor crater in Arizona by French scientist and Nobel Prize winner, Dr. Henri Moissan as far back as 1893.
Due to the nature of its occurrence, this precious gemstone is rare. It is so rare that scientists, with the help of cutting-edge technology, create large pieces in the lab that can be cut into smaller forms that fit into rings.
The brilliance, lustre, fire, and durability of moissanite make it an amazing gemstone for engagement jewellery, wedding, and even anniversaries. You should also know that Moissanites occur naturally and are formed from silicon carbide.
Why Moissanite Makes a Better Engagement Jewelry than Diamond
Moissanite is special for so many reasons, ranging from its visual appeal to its chemical composition. While they are most times called fake diamonds or cheap substitutes, we are pleased to tell you that they’re neither fake nor cheap. Plus they have some notable features that make them superior to mined diamonds.
Here are some reasons why moissanite might just be the perfect engagement jewellery for the love of your life:
1. Brilliance Refractive Index
Moissanite has a high refractive index. It is the most brilliant gemstone, and diamonds can’t compare. When placed side by side, moissanite creates a more dazzling sparkle that captures the heart right away.
Unlike diamonds, when you rotate moissanite, you’ll see a display of colours that shows the great amount of fire it possesses. Mined diamonds will only reflect one colour – white.
2. Durability
Mined diamonds are the hardest known mineral on earth. They are durable and cases of wear and tear are almost nonexistent, which means they can withstand harsh conditions and be worn every day.
Moissanites, on the other hand, are almost as strong as natural diamonds. They come in second to diamonds on the MOHs hardness scale with a rating of 9.25. This precious gemstone will not chip or break easily and are notably resistant to abrasion.
3. Colour
Scientists have improved the appearance of moissanite over the years. Traditionally, moissanite has a greenish or yellowish tint. Now, you can get a moissanite ring that’s colourless and has great quality, making it the perfect substitute for diamond engagement jewellery if the visual appearance is a top priority, which it always is.
4. Lower Price
With all its great qualities and unique features, moissanite will cost you far less than diamonds. The price of this gemstone is about one-tenth of a mined diamond of the same quality and size. It is an amazing alternative if you’re working on a budget and don’t want to spend a fortune on a diamond ring.
5. Conflict-free
Diamond has a history of corruption deeply rooted in theft, violence, and exploitation. All these make diamonds unclean gemstones. So, if you care about the origin of the jewellery you’ll be giving to your partner, you might want to rethink your decision when ring shopping.
Moissanites, however, are clean gemstones. They don’t have any history that has negatively impacted people or the environment. Since most of the moissanite gemstones that are for sale now are made by scientists, it is safe to say that moissanite rings are conflict-free and are the best substitutes for environmentally conscious couples.
How are Moissanites Made?
Moissanites are rare and insufficient in nature. But due to its unique nature and notable similarities with mined diamonds, scientists found a way to create more of it with the help of technology.
Basically, scientists mimic the natural procedure of moissanite creation in the laboratory. During this process, Silicon and Carbon are put under heat and pressure to create crystals that are then properly monitored under the right physical and chemical environment until moissanite is formed. The creation of a single gem usually takes about 3 months.
Are Moissanites Good Engagement Jewelry?
The durability, fire, brilliance, price, and colour variation of moissanite rings give them a competitive edge over mined diamonds. They are timeless and still remain shiny for years, unlike diamond rings whose lustre reduces more quickly when exposed to dirt and oils.
Since engagement rings are worn almost every time of the day, you must know that they are extremely hard and cleaning them is easy. Moissanites also exude class and luxury with zero features that may make them look cheap.
Should I go for a Moissanite Ring at the End of the Day?
Well, it all depends on your partner’s preference. If your partner is all about saving money and choosing the most ethical option, then moissanite rings are a great choice.
If your partner, however, is more conscious about sticking to the traditional engagement gemstone or cares more about the value or price, then the diamond ring is the preferred option.
Whatever the case may be, it is important that you first communicate with your partner without necessarily announcing your engagement plans – if you still want to keep it a surprise. You could allude to it or have their family or friends do the asking in the least suspicious ways possible.
Remember, they are the ones putting it on. Ensure that you don’t make them wear a ring they don’t fancy for years.
Final Thoughts
Both diamond and moissanite rings make fantastic engagement jewellery. They both have high levels of visual appeal and are durable. It is almost impossible to tell the difference between both gemstones. Notwithstanding, moissanite rings are an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and ethical engagement jewellery substitute if you don’t want to get a diamond one.
