The Birth and Creation of Moissanite

Little is known about moissanite aside from its reputation as a beautiful and durable gemstone. Its origins and formation are even more obscure. We aim to shed some light on that here! Below is some of the information we’ve gathered regarding the discovery and formation of moissanite.

Moissanite’s Origin

Interestingly, moissanite wasn’t found in an underground mine. This mineral was first discovered in the late 1800s inside a crater in Arizona, which was created by a meteor.

Who discovered moissanite, and how did it get its name?

The credit for discovering moissanite goes to Henri Moissan, a French chemist. It took about ten years after its discovery for the mineral to be named moissanite, in honor of Moissan.

Initially, Moissan identified it as naturally occurring silicon carbide (SiC). This is fascinating because, just two years earlier, synthetic silicon carbide had been developed for industrial applications.

Once the potential uses for this simulated diamond were realized, and its composition of SiC confirmed, it was named moissanite.

Is natural moissanite rare?

This gemstone is far less common than diamonds or rubies. In fact, natural moissanite jewelry didn’t hit the market until the late 1990s. Since meteor impacts that create craters are rare events, the supply of natural moissanite is limited. When a source is found, extraction is carried out diligently to ensure maximum and high-quality yield.

What is Synthetic Moissanite Made Of?

Synthetic moissanite, also known as simulated diamonds, is made from the same silicon carbide as its natural counterpart. Although easy to synthesize, it was initially used only for industrial purposes due to its lackluster appearance. Despite this, its hardness and strength made it highly valuable for various industries.

Synthetic Moissanite Formation vs. Natural Diamond Formation

Contrary to popular belief, diamonds do not form from coal. Coal and diamond form in different layers of the earth and through different processes. There are multiple methods of natural diamond formation.

Synthetic moissanite is created in laboratories. Although the silicon carbide used is naturally harvested, the creation process is closely monitored and assisted by experts.

Typically, synthetic moissanite is made through the thermal decomposition of methylsilane. This involves extremely high temperatures, so high that no metal powder is needed to bind the simulated diamond.

How is Synthetic Moissanite Valued?

The value of moissanite, like any other stone, depends on several factors. Are you looking for loose moissanite? Loose stones have a different price range and you’ll need to compare these separately. Whether you’re purchasing for jewelry or industrial purposes also impacts the price.

The type of jewelry you’re interested in also affects pricing. Are you looking for an emerald-cut moissanite bracelet or necklace? A moissanite wedding ring or band? Perhaps a simple solitaire engagement ring?

The number of gemstones in the jewelry and the setting will also influence the price. Carat size is another determinant; smaller stones usually offer better price deals.

Despite these variations, we can give a rough estimate: moissanite is often chosen as a diamond substitute due to its comparable strength and resistance to damage.

How much can I save purchasing moissanite vs. diamonds?

Natural moissanite is rare, but one reason people opt for moissanite over diamonds is cost-effectiveness. Generally, synthetic moissanite stones are 10-15% cheaper than natural diamonds.

Your savings will also depend on where and how you purchase moissanite. Many retailers, both physical and online, offer this alternative. Ensure it is GIA or IGI certified before buying.