Moissanite engagement rings are naturally occurring minerals that were first discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan while examining rock samples from a meteorite crater in Arizona. The mineral is composed of silicon carbide and has a chemical formula of SiC.
Although moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral, most of the moissanite used in jewellery today is actually created in a laboratory. The process involves growing a crystal of silicon carbide under high heat and pressure conditions. The resulting gemstones have similar physical and optical properties to natural moissanite, but they are produced in a more controlled environment and can be made in larger sizes and with higher clarity and colour grades.
Moissanite is known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, which is a result of its high refractive index and dispersion. It is also extremely durable, with a hardness rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones available. Because of these properties, moissanite is a popular alternative to diamonds in engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewellery.
When you compare Moissanite Vs Diamond, there is a case for moissanite becoming more popular in the UK for several reasons:
- Affordability: Moissanite is a more affordable alternative to diamonds, making it an attractive option for those who want a high-quality gemstone without the high price tag.
- Environmental and ethical concerns: There is a growing awareness of the environmental and ethical issues associated with diamond mining, which has led some consumers to seek out alternative gemstones such as moissanite, which is produced in a laboratory.
- Durability and brilliance: Moissanite has a hardness rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it extremely durable and resistant to scratches and chips. It also has a high refractive index, which means that it has more brilliance and fire than diamonds.
- Unique appearance: Moissanite has a unique appearance that sets it apart from diamonds. Its double refraction creates a unique sparkle that some people find more appealing than the traditional diamond sparkle.
In addition to the factors I mentioned earlier, moissanite is also gaining popularity in the UK due to the increasing availability and variety of moissanite jewellery. More and more jewellery designers and retailers are offering moissanite as an option for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewellery pieces, giving consumers more options to choose from.
Furthermore, the technology used to create moissanite in a laboratory has improved significantly in recent years, resulting in higher-quality and more visually appealing gemstones. As a result, moissanite is now available in larger sizes and with better colour and clarity, making it an even more attractive option for consumers.
Finally, social media has played a significant role in the popularity of moissanite in the UK and around the world. Many influencers and celebrities have been seen wearing moissanite jewellery, which has helped to raise awareness and generate interest in the gemstone.
Overall, moissanite is becoming more popular in the UK because it offers consumers an affordable, ethical, and durable alternative to traditional diamonds, while also providing a unique and attractive appearance.