Moissanite Myths Uncovered

Myth 1: My moissanite is a natural gemstone

Moissanite is manufactured in a laboratory,  which means they are man-made and therefore synthetic.

Myth 2: Moissanite is made from carbon like diamonds

Both natural and synthetic moissanites are made up of silicon carbide, a by-product of carbon and silicon.  Natural silicon carbide is extremely rare and these tiny natural crystals (less than 1.5mm across) are way too small for jewellery manufacture.

Myth 3: Moissanite is synthetic diamond

Moissanite is commonly confused with lab-grown or synthetic diamonds, however they have completely different chemical compositions and are valued independently of one another.  Moissanite is a diamond alternative.

Myth 4: Moissanite is harder than a diamond

Diamonds are the hardest substance on earth.  Moissanites are a very close second, with diamonds at a 10/10 and moissanites at a 9.5/10. 

Myth 5: Diamonds are more durable than moissanite because they are harder

The atomic structure of synthetic moissanite does not have a direction of cleavage. Due to this, moissanite is an inherently tougher material than diamond. Diamond, while extremely hard can chip or shatter when struck by a hard object on it's cleavage plane.  Moissanite is not indestructible by any means, but is more resistant to damage in this regard.

Myth 6: Moissanite and diamonds look the same

Moissanites are very sparkly. They have a higher refractive index than that of a diamond so they sparkle a lot more. This 'fire' is often rainbow coloured rather than colourless. In short, good quality moissanites have a luster equivalent to a diamond but are more fiery. 

Myth 7: Moissanite is flawless

Moissanites are generally considered almost flawless with a clarity grade of VVS or higher. This grade means that there are no visible flaws. Diamonds, on the other hand, can have flaws that can be seen with the naked eye.

Myth 8: Moissanite is not a heirloom

The jury is out on this one.  Because moissanite is known for it's durability, toughness and sparkle, it is considered as an ideal gemstone for an engagement ring.  Engagement rings are meant to last a lifetime and more, so passing it onto  generations to come makes perfect sense.  Your moissanite will look as gorgeous today as it will in many, many years to come.

Myth 9: Moissanite is almost as expensive as a diamond

Moissanite costs approximately 10% of a diamond.

Myth 10: Pink moissanite is durable

All pink moissanite stones in the market today start off life as clear moissanite that are colour enhanced by a "coating" process (ion induction) to make them pink. This micron thick coating on the gemstone is not permanent.  Many dealers sell these stones and lead you to believe that "under normal wear" the colour is permanent. You need to question these companies and ascertain exactly what is the definition of "normal wear"?