Diamonds are said to be a girl’s best friend, and the precious gemstone has an incredible history of being used to create stunning jewelry. The most expensive ring in the world sold for $80 million and weighs a whopping 31-carats.
While the Wittelsbach-Graff Diamond ring originates from the 1600s, diamonds have been sought after for far longer. It is believed that diamonds were first found in India 2,500 years ago. But, it was in South Africa that everything changed.
In 1866, a 15-year-old South African boy discovered a transparent rock. This gemstone later became known as the Eureka diamond. This discovery started the South African diamond rush that yielded more gemstones in a few years than India had in 2,000 years.
But, a synthetic upstart is making headway in the gem world, and proving a popular alternative to diamonds.
What is moissanite?
Less than 30 years after diamonds were first discovered in South Africa, Henri Moissan found a new gemstone in Arizona. A massive meteor hit Arizona thousands of years ago, and in 1893 a French chemist began studying the fragments of this meteor. It was then that Henri Moissan discovered the crystal that became named after him.
Because moissanite only comes from meteors, it makes this natural gemstone incredibly rare. Yet moss rings are becoming very popular for weddings, engagements, and for fashion jewelry.
Why would moissanite be a better option than a diamond?
The most commonly seen shape for diamonds in wedding rings is the round cut. And the most popular weight is 1 carat. A round-cut 1-carat diamond ring is suitable for many people’s budgets, and the shape suits most people’s hands.
However, many couples are interested in personalised Russian ring necklaces now, or alternatives jewelry to place diamonds in. Other precious gemstones, and birthstones, are in fashion. And moissanite is taking up a slice of the market too. But why?
Moissanite is growing in popularity
Moissanite is becoming more popular as an alternative to diamonds. One study shows that searches for moissanite have grown over the last year.
The number one country for moissanite purchases is the US followed by Canada and Australia. Perhaps surprisingly, Qatar and Singapore follow very closely in their demand for moissanite.
Moissanite has a similar appearance
Henri Moissan debated that diamonds could be synthesized. Now, most moissanite is created in labs and has a very similar look to diamonds. But, moissanite is more affordable.
Moissanite is less expensive than diamonds
One clear reason why moissanite is becoming popular is that it has the appearance of a diamond. However, moissanite costs far less than diamonds.
A 1-carat moissanite might set you back up to $600, but the equivalent weight in a diamond would be nearer $5,000 depending on the quality.
Moissanite is sustainable
Sustainability is the buzzword in fashion and a number of other industries now. And sustainability is just one of many wedding trends this year.
While moissanite occurs naturally on meteors, it is usually made in labs today. Because there is no mining involved, moissanite has a smaller carbon footprint than other gemstones.
Most people can’t tell the difference between a diamond and a moissanite
Returning to the theme of appearance, moissanite has a brilliance that outshines diamonds.
The fire and brilliance of moissanite can glitter so much that people worry their gemstone will look fake. In reality, an average person will not be able to spot any difference between moissanite and a diamond.
Moissanite is suitable for everyday jewelry
One reason that diamonds are popular is their durability. Diamonds just can’t be damaged. It might be reasonable to assume that moissanite is no match for the hardness of a diamond, but they are extremely durable.
Moissanite measures 9.25 out of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. This makes a personalized necklace with moissanite perfect for everyday use, and another reason why this gemstone is being used for wedding rings now.
Moissanite may have a resale value
There is a healthy resale market for moissanite. You might not make a profit but if you have a natural high-quality moissanite, then it may have significant resale value.
Summary
These reasons alone are why moissanite is growing in popularity. In a time when inflation is high and people are taking on side gigs to make ends meet, moissanite provides an affordable alternative to diamonds.
Moissanite has a very similar appearance to diamonds, has great fire and brilliance, is almost as durable, and is much less expensive. And if you’re lucky enough to have a natural moissanite you will have something even rarer than a diamond.
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