Moissanite is a popular gemstone that has attracted a significant amount of attention in the jewelry market. Known for its dazzling brilliance and eco-friendly nature, it serves as an excellent alternative to traditional gemstones like diamonds. Here, we delve into the pros and cons of moissanite and touch upon an interesting comparison with cheap lab created diamonds.
Pros of Moissanite
Affordability: Moissanite is substantially less expensive than natural diamonds, making it an affordable choice for many customers. Compared to the high cost of natural diamonds, moissanite offers similar aesthetic appeal at a fraction of the price.
Brilliance: Moissanite stones are known for their intense brilliance. They possess a high refractive index, which results in superior sparkle when light hits the stone. This feature sets them apart from many other gemstones.
Durability: Moissanite ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it one of the hardest substances on earth. Its hardness is second only to diamonds, making it highly resistant to scratches and damage, and suitable for everyday wear.
Environmentally Friendly: Unlike traditional mining of natural diamonds, which can have significant environmental impacts, moissanite is lab-created. This process makes it a more sustainable and environmentally friendly choice.
Cons of Moissanite
Perception and Value: Despite its many advantages, some people still prefer natural diamonds because of their inherent value and status symbol. Moissanite, being lab-created and not as rare as natural diamonds, does not hold the same cultural significance or resale value.
Color: While most moissanite stones appear colorless, they can sometimes project a rainbow effect or exhibit a slight yellow or gray hue under certain lights. This characteristic may not appeal to everyone.
Size and Clarity: Moissanite is almost always flawless. While this may sound like a pro, in larger carat sizes, this can give a somewhat 'too perfect' appearance, which makes it easy to differentiate from a natural diamond.
Now, let's take a look at cheap lab created diamonds. These are real diamonds grown in a laboratory environment. They share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. They are also a more affordable and ethical choice compared to natural diamonds. However, like moissanite, they do not carry the same inherent value or prestige as natural diamonds.
In conclusion, moissanite is a brilliant, durable, and affordable gemstone that is a fantastic choice for those prioritizing these features. However, it might not be the right choice for those looking for a gemstone with a high resale value and traditional appeal. As always, the best choice depends on personal preference, budget, and ethical considerations.