With just a glance at a moissanite, you will see its resemblance to the diamond. For some who cannot differentiate between the two, it can be easy to mistake moissanite for a diamond, diamond substitute or a synthetic diamond. In the search for cheaper alternatives to diamonds, synthetic moissanite is a recent discovery but one that is fast becoming popular.
It was discovered by a French Nobel Prize winner by the name Dr. Henri Moissan. He came across a new mineral that had interesting minute quantities; natural silicon carbide. In other words, using a combination of heat and pressure on carbon and silicon will produce the moissanite. All these came from an ancient meteorite which was found in Arizona. As a result, this mineral was named moissanite in favor of the one who discovered it.
Because it physically looks like the diamond, in a bid to replicate the diamond, a process of producing large crystals of moissanite began and after sometime it was observed that if properly cut, the moissanite had optical properties similar to a diamond. It was also realized that the moissanite had to go through a manufacturing process in order for it to be used as a jewel. Today, this gem is widely accepted and jewelry such as moissanite engagement rings, earrings, and more, is available from many jewelers.
When moissanite is compared to the diamond; it looks alike and is rated at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, very similar to diamond. Despite the diamond being a higher jewel than the moissanite, it has a higher brilliance when compared in terms of the refractive indexes. It is unlikely to attract grease and cannot therefore loose its lusture. It cannot crack into pieces when force is applied
Choosing moissanite as a jewel that you would fancy to buy would be a beautiful and memorable choice, as it is unique in every way.