FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

MOISSANITE FAQ's

Is Moissanite a Real Gem?

Yes. Moissanite is a beautiful, naturally occurring mineral called silicon carbide. It was first discovered in 1893 in a meteor crater in Arizona. As it is exceptionally rare in nature the only way to supply gems to the jewellery market is to recreate it in a lab setting. Moissanite made in a lab has identical properties to its natural counterpart. Just because the moissanite on the market has been made in a lab does not make it fake.

Moissanite is not a fake diamond; it is a distinct gemstone with its own unique properties and characteristics. While it is often used as an alternative to diamonds due to its similar appearance and brilliant sparkle, moissanite is a different mineral altogether. It is made of silicon carbide, whereas diamonds are made of carbon. Moissanite is valued for its exceptional fire, brilliance, and hardness, making it a popular choice for jewelry. It is appreciated in its own right and not considered a counterfeit or imitation diamond.

Moissanite and cubic zirconia are both popular alternatives to diamonds in jewelry, but they are distinct gemstones with unique properties. Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide and is valued for its brilliance, fire, and durability, whether it's naturally occurring or lab-created. On the other hand, cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone made from zirconium dioxide, created in a laboratory. While both can resemble diamonds in appearance, moissanite tends to have more fire and brilliance, closer to that of diamonds, while cubic zirconia is generally less expensive and has a different visual appearance.

Whether moissanite is better than cubic zirconia depends on your preferences and priorities. Moissanite is known for its exceptional brilliance, fire, and durability, closer to that of diamonds, making it a popular choice for those seeking a diamond alternative with superior qualities. It tends to be more expensive than cubic zirconia due to its higher quality and closer resemblance to diamonds. Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is more affordable and widely available, making it a budget-friendly option for those who prioritize cost. While cubic zirconia may lack the same level of brilliance and durability as moissanite, it still offers a beautiful sparkle and can be a suitable choice for those with different preferences or budget constraints. Ultimately, the "better" choice depends on what characteristics and attributes are most important to you.

Absolutely, you've nailed it! Moissanite's origin in a lab doesn't diminish its value or authenticity; in fact, lab-created moissanite often boasts even more consistency and quality than its naturally occurring counterpart. This gem's allure lies in its stunning brilliance and durability, whether it's sourced from a meteorite or synthesized in a laboratory setting. So, whether natural or lab-created, moissanite continues to captivate with its timeless beauty and elegance, proving that authenticity isn't confined to geological origins.

While a 1 carat diamond and a 1 carat moissanite may have the same weight (carat), they are not necessarily the same size in terms of their dimensions. Moissanite is slightly less dense than diamond, so a 1 carat moissanite will typically have a slightly larger physical size compared to a 1 carat diamond. This difference in size may not be noticeable to the naked eye, but it's a factor to consider when choosing between the two gemstones, especially for setting purposes. Additionally, moissanite often has greater brilliance and fire compared to diamonds of the same weight, making it an attractive alternative for those seeking exceptional sparkle without the higher price tag associated with diamonds.

Moissanite generally offers excellent value for those seeking a beautiful, durable, and affordable alternative to diamonds. It typically costs significantly less than diamonds of similar size and quality while still providing exceptional brilliance, fire, and durability. Additionally, moissanite is lab-created, making it a more ethical and environmentally friendly choice compared to mined diamonds. Its hardness and resistance to scratching make it suitable for everyday wear, and its stunning appearance rivals that of diamonds. Overall, moissanite offers excellent value for those looking for a high-quality gemstone without the high price tag associated with diamonds.

MOISSANITE CARE

How Do I Clean Moissanite?

To clean moissanite jewelry, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl, and let the jewelry soak for 10-15 minutes. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the jewelry, focusing on any intricate details and the underside of the stone. Rinse thoroughly under warm running water to remove soap and debris, then pat dry with a lint-free or microfiber cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or chlorine, as they can damage both the moissanite and the metal setting.

Yes, you can shower with a moissanite ring as moissanite is durable and resistant to water and everyday wear. However, to keep your ring looking its best, it's generally recommended to remove it before showering. Soap, shampoo, and other bath products can leave a residue on the ring, dulling its sparkle over time. Regularly cleaning your moissanite ring can help maintain its brilliance if you do wear it in the shower.

Yes, you can reset a moissanite gemstone. Moissanite is a durable and hard stone, making it suitable for resetting into different jewelry settings. When considering resetting your moissanite, it's important to work with a professional jeweler who has experience with moissanite. The jeweler will ensure that the stone is properly handled and securely set in the new setting without damaging it. Whether you want to update the design of your ring, change the metal, or create an entirely new piece of jewelry, resetting your moissanite can give it a fresh look while preserving its beauty and brilliance.

Yes, you can resize a moissanite ring. The process of resizing a ring typically involves a jeweler adjusting the metal band, either by adding or removing material to achieve the desired size. Since moissanite is a durable gemstone, it can withstand the resizing process without being damaged. However, it's crucial to have the resizing done by a professional jeweler with experience in handling moissanite and working with the specific type of metal used in your ring to ensure the stone and setting are not compromised.

No, moissanite does not change color over time. One of the appealing characteristics of moissanite is its stability and resistance to color changes. Unlike some other gemstones, moissanite maintains its brilliance and clarity over the years, even with regular wear. Its durability and resistance to scratching, heat, and chemicals ensure that it retains its original appearance. Proper care, such as regular cleaning and avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, will help maintain the stone's sparkle and overall condition.

Moissanite does not lose its sparkle permanently; however, like any gemstone, it can accumulate dirt, oils, and residue from everyday wear, which can dull its brilliance temporarily. Regular cleaning will restore its sparkle. To maintain its brilliance, clean your moissanite jewelry with mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft toothbrush to remove any buildup. With proper care and regular cleaning, moissanite will retain its stunning sparkle and fire indefinitely.

Moissanite is highly resistant to scratching due to its hardness, which rates at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, just below diamonds which are rated at 10. While it is exceptionally hard and durable, it is not completely scratch-proof. Moissanite can be scratched by materials that are harder than it, such as diamonds or certain types of industrial abrasives. However, under normal conditions and with typical daily wear, it is unlikely to get scratched, maintaining its beauty and brilliance over time.