Frequently Asked Questions

What is Moissanite made of?

    Silicon carbide (SiC) is a rare, naturally occurring mineral first discovered in Arizona at the site of a massive meteorite strike.  Naturally occurring moissanite is so scarce that any crystals large enough for jewelry are prohibited to be used in that way.  For many years scientists have tried to recreate this very rare mineral. It wasn’t until the late 90’s in a lab down in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina where scientists finally successfully developed the innovative thermal growing process that creates silicon carbide crystals.  Charles & Colvard are the pioneers in this industry and continue to lead the way creating a truly unique mix of art and science. They are able to ethically and responsibly create a gemstone that will rival any natural gemstone for fire and brilliance. More durable than a sapphire, ruby or emerald and just as strong as a diamond.

     

    Who Discovered Moissanite?

    It was discovered in 1893 by a French chemist known as Henri Moissan in Arizona. Initially, he thought he had found diamonds but he found out later what he has found is silicon carbide. He changed the name of his discovery to Moissanite.

      

    Is Moissanite a Type of Diamond or a Diamond Simulant?

      No, moissanite is a unique gemstone with its own set of chemical and optical properties different from a diamond.  Moissanite is not a substitute for a diamond either scientifically or chemically.  The properties of a moissanite exhibit more fire and brilliance than any other gemstone. With that said they are extremely hard to tell apart from a diamond with the naked eye. You would need a very strong loupe or microscope and even still it might be hard for an untrained eye to tell the two apart.

       

      Do Moissanite Occur Naturally?

      It is very rare to naturally occurring moissanite but they are made in controlled situations in lab.

       

      Why Choose Charles & Colvard Moissanite?

        Being the original creators of moissanite are Charles & Colvard they have the process down pact. The process is extremely complicated, expensive and time consuming which does limit the output of stones. It takes about two to three months to create just one gem. Their manufacturing process and years of experience is what makes them the leading source and global distributors in the industry. Those many years of development have led to a very rigorous production routine. They follow exact specifications and meet very high standards of quality control. Each stone comes with a Certificate of Authenticity that will certify every gemstone is an original product manufactured in meticulously controlled laboratories by extremely skilled professionals. After production all stones will undergo very strict testing for quality, purity and also numerous rounds of grading before they are released for sale.  We trust they are the best in the business and we only work with the best.

         

        What are Moissanite’s Properties?

        When it comes to hardness, Moissanite gets a rating of 9.2 on the Mohs scale, whereas Sapphire has a rating of 9 and diamond gets a score of 10. This means that Moissanite is extremely hard and is resistant to scratch marks. One of the reasons why people prefer moissanite is that it has a great sparkle and clarity. The stone is very clear and only a few of them have slight shades of yellow and green.

         

        Is Moissanite an Excellent (Ideal) Cut Stone?

          Each stone is very carefully and precisely faceted. Every moissanite gem is cut according to the exact angles and proportions specific to moissanite in order to maximize its brilliance and enhance the incredible fire.

           

          How is Moissanite Graded for Clarity?

            Each stone is certified by a graduate gemologist who themselves have been certified by the world renowned Gemological Institute of America. Each Charles & Colvard gem is looked at by a trained grading specialist using a 10x jewelers loupe. They are looking for any inclusions that may affect the stones optical performance. Once the stone arrives to us at MoissaniteRings.com we also have an in house GIA graduate gemologist who looks each stone over once more. This double process ensures only the highest quality stones are used in our pieces.

             

            Will the Brilliance or Fire of my Moissanite Ever Fade?

              No. Every stone comes with a Limited Lifetime warranty which guarantees that every Charles and Colvard crested moissanite will maintain its brilliance and fire forever.

               

              Will the Color of my Moissanite Fade or Change Over Time?

                No, there are no likely situations in which the color of moissanite will be permanently changed. If by chance this should ever happen, you’re covered by the Charles & Colvard warranty.

                 

                Is Moissanite Resistant to Scratching?

                  Yes, Moissanite is extremely durable and extremely resistant to scratches and abrasion. Its hardness is a 9.25 on the Moh’s scale which makes it harder than all other gemstones with the exception of a diamond. A diamond is a 10 on the Mohs scale.

                   

                  Does Moissanite Break Easily?

                    No. Moissanite is one of the toughest known gemstones which makes it perfect for an engagement ring, a piece of jewelry that is usually worn every day. Studies in high pressure research have shown that moissanite is highly resistant to breaking and chipping.  Charles & Colvard provide a Limited Lifetime Warranty that protects against damage to the stone.

                     

                    Can I Consider Moissanite as an Engagement Ring?

                    There is no reason why you can’t consider moissanite as an engagement ring. It is grown in labs, so you know that the entire process is extremely ethical unlike blood diamonds. If you can’t afford expensive gemstones that deprecate in value as soon as you purchase them, then getting moissanite is the way to go about.

                     

                    How Much Do They Cost?

                    Moissanites look very expensive but they cost much less than diamonds. If a one carat diamond costs $5000 then a moissanite of the same size will cost $700. Diamonds is measured by carats, whereas moissanite are measured in millimeters. One carat of diamond is generally equal to a 6.5 mm of moissanite.

                     

                    Why Do You Think I Should Buy Moissanite?

                    Here are some of the reasons why you should purchase moissanite:

                    • It is extremely affordable and will fit your budget.
                    • The stone boasts of luster, brilliance, and fire, which is not commonly found in other stones.
                    • It has a high refractive index, which means that it sparkles a lot and there are flashes of rainbow light.
                    • Moissanite has 50% more luster than CZ and 18% more luster than a diamond.
                    • It is extremely durable, tough, and hard, so you know that it can become a family heirloom.
                    • It is the ethical choice since it is made in labs.
                    • You can easily create a custom engagement ring that will be according to your specifications.
                    • A lot of these rings come with a Charles & Colvard Warranty.