Moissanite is an affordable substitute for diamonds, one that anyone can afford. Its reproduction started in a laboratory in 1995. The lab created Moissanite stone is based on the construction of natural moissanite, which is a crystal found in meterorites. Since the occurrence of moissanite is rare, its quantity is far less than the supply that jewellery needs, and to meet this demand it is grown in labs.

Unlike diamonds, moissanites are not sold by carat size. They are sold by size which is measured in millimeters. Charles & Colvard enjoy a monopoly as the sole manufacturers of moissanite, they do not allow jewellers to sell loose stones.

Moissanite created in laboratories have a hardness rating of 9.25. Diamond has a hardness rating of 10. The most important characteristics of a jewel lies in its beauty, durability and rarity. Lab created moissanite stones are quite brilliant and lustrous than actual diamonds. These are optical qualities. Moissanite that is created in the laboratory is clear or “eye clean” as SI quality diamonds. Created moissanite can withstand heat much better than a diamond. A created moissanite stone will remain intact at a temperature of 1100 degrees Celsius, a diamond on the other hand will catch fire, burn, and eventually vaporize.

Some jewellers are unable to tell the difference between created moissanite and diamonds. However, while purchasing moissanite one must make sure that what they are purchasing is actually a and not a much cheaper imitation CZ. There are lab instruments that are now available to jewellers that help them distinguish the difference. Inorder to distinguish “double refraction” in moissanites, Jewellers tend to use a probe called a moissanite probe or microscope.

To make sure that the moissanite purchased is not a cheap imitation one must be sure you buy from a reputable dealer and also get a written verification from the dealer. It is also important that one asks and collects a written verification of the stone as well as a certified appraisal.

Moissanite can be cut in various shapes and sizes unlike the restrictions faced by diamonds. Learn about different gems by enrolling in our 1-year Diploma in Fine Jewellery Design course offered at one of the best jewellery designing institute in Bangalore.