Mercator Minerals Gems, Minerals And More! Home Mineral Habits Moissanite Selenite Crystals News FAQ Out of This World: Marvelous Moissanite At a fraction of the cost, the moissanite engagement ring can provide just the ticket for a classy ring while still offering the brilliance and durability of a real diamond. Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 in a meteor, and obviously in limited quantity (we hope). Scientists quickly began work to develop a synthetic form of the mineral, silicone carbide. Marquise-cut moissanite engagement ring from Moissanite-Stardust.com But it wasn’t until 1995 that jewelers realized that moissanite would make a great gemstone. So great, in fact, that jewelers need special equipment to determine if a rock is a genuine diamond or a moissanite. And if they can’t tell, why should you? The primary reason for choosing moissanite over a true diamond is cost. If you’re on a limited budget, you can still have the ring of your dreams, and no one will know the difference. Why choose moissanite over other alternatives, such as cubic zirconia? Moissanite rates higher on the Mohs hardness scale (diamonds are 10, moissanite is 9.25, and CZ is 9) and it’s also more brilliant than cubic zirconia. Also keep in mind that moissanite is not a fake diamond, but a mineral that looks similar to a diamond. So what’s stopping you? Okay, a couple of other things you may want to know: Moissanite can vary in color a bit, from a grayish to a greenish tone. Be sure to investigate the ring under a variety of lights before making a purchase, and find out the store’s return policy. Moissanite is less expensive than a diamond, but more expensive than a cubic zirconia. On the bright side, moissanite is more brilliant than a diamond, so if you’re looking for that shine, this may be the way to go. For the best shine, you can choose a cut with multiple points of refraction, such as a marquise or princess cut, and watch people shield their eyes as you walk by! Moissanite engagement rings are available from many quality jewelers and online at quality jewelers like Moissanite-Stardust.com. Moissanite is available as loose stones or already set, so your options are as many as they are when shopping for diamond rings. And because of the cost difference, you can mix and match; for example, you can use a moissanite gem as the centerpiece of your ring, and surround it with smaller diamonds or other colorful gems. Whatever you’re looking for in an engagement ring, you can find it in moissanite. Investments Pricing of Diamonds Gold Bars & Coins Copyright © 2016 Mercator Minerals. Powered by WordPress and ThemeGrill.