Sparkling Moissanite Clarity

What is Moissanite Clarity?

You’ve likely heard of the 4C’s of diamond grading, but did you know that these criteria also apply to moissanite? Clarity grade identifies the number of imperfections in a stone, known as inclusions. Nearly all gemstones possess some degree of inclusions, and only the most expensive simulated diamonds boast exceptional clarity grades.

Inclusions occur when foreign materials like crystals, minerals, and gas bubbles become trapped within a stone as it forms. For white gemstone enthusiasts, most of these inclusions aren’t visible to the naked eye and can only be detected with a 10x jeweler’s magnification loop.

Types of Moissanite Inclusions

Inclusions are a primary reason why no two stones are identical. Similar to diamonds, moissanite can have a variety of inclusions, such as:

Needles:

The most common type of moissanite inclusions are needles, named for their thin, needle-like appearance. Typically white or translucent, these inclusions are only visible under magnification. They become problematic if they form in clusters, which can significantly lower the clarity grade.

Mineral Crystals:

Mineral crystals are light or dark crystals found inside the gemstone. It’s best to avoid purchasing moissanite with large mineral crystals that are visible to the naked eye.

Clouds:

These inclusions look like hazy spots within the stone. Under extreme magnification, these cloudy spots reveal clusters of pinpoints and crystals.

Feathers:

Feathers are tiny fractures within the stone, resembling wisps or cracks. Avoid simulated diamonds with numerous feathers as they compromise the stone’s structural integrity. An unexpected blow could cause the gemstone to fracture.

Knots:

A knot is a white or transparent crystal visible on the stone’s polished surface. Similar to feathers, knots can threaten a gemstone’s structural integrity.

Chips:

These inclusions are shallow surface openings often found on the culet, facet junctions, and girdle, typically resulting from accidental damage.

Cavities:

Just like tooth cavities, gemstone cavities are deep surface openings that can trap dirt and oil, leading to dark spots due to buildup.

How is Clarity Graded?

Moissanite’s clarity grade, like that of diamonds, is based on the number of imperfections present. Stones with few to no inclusions are more desirable and fetch higher prices. The moissanite clarity chart features 11 distinct grades, but these can be grouped into five major categories, ranked from best to worst:

FL, IF:

Flawless and internally flawless

VVS1, VVS2:

Very, very slightly included

VS1, VS2:

Very slightly included

SI1, SI2:

Slightly included

I1, I2, I3:

Included

Upgrading even one clarity grade can impact the price by hundreds of dollars. For the best value, consider moissanite in the VVS1 to VS2 range.

Effect of Gemstone Cutting on Clarity Grade

When cutting raw moissanite, gemstone cutters must balance retaining weight and eliminating inclusions. Some may preserve more of the raw gemstone, leaving in inclusions to maintain higher carat weights, while skilled cutters can achieve exceptional clarity with careful removal of imperfections. If unsure, it’s best to avoid moissanite rated I1 to I3. Consult our gemologists for further advice.

Is Natural Moissanite Rare?

Natural moissanite is exceedingly rare, with all moissanite in jewelry being lab-grown. Discovered by chemist Dr. Henri Moissan in 1893 in an Arizona meteorite crater, this gemstone is found only as very small crystals in a few global deposits.

Moissanite Hardness on the Mohs Scale

Diamonds are the hardest natural substance, ranking a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. Lab-grown diamonds share these properties, also ranking a 10. Moissanite scores 9.25, making it ideal for daily wear as it’s less prone to scratching than softer stones like emeralds, which rank 7.50 on the Mohs scale.

All moissanite from Artful Bracelets is lab-created and selected for their superior cut, color, and clarity, ensuring they remain beautiful over time.

For a diamond ring alternative, consider researching moissanite engagement rings for their similar optical properties and budget-friendly price point.