Moissanite Engagement Rings Shopping? Read this first
When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds have long been the traditional choice. However, in recent years, moissanite engagement rings have become increasingly popular as an alternative to diamond rings. Therefore, moissanite is an option worth exploring if you want a unique and valuable gem for your ring.
What is Moissanite? Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that was first discovered in a meteorite in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan. It is made up of silicon carbide and has a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, which is slightly lower than diamonds but still very durable. Moissanite also has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which gives it stunning brilliance and fire.
Why Choose a Moissanite Engagement Ring?
There are several reasons why someone might choose a moissanite engagement ring over a diamond ring.
- Firstly, moissanite is more affordable than diamonds, so you can get a larger stone for your budget.
- Secondly, moissanite is a lab-created gemstone, which means that it is environmentally friendly and ethically sourced.
- Finally, moissanite is a unique and beautiful gemstone that has its distinct look and appeal.
Moissanite will give you value for money. However, you cannot pass off moissanite as a diamond. These two are unique and different in various ways.
What to Look for When Shopping for a Moissanite Engagement Ring
When shopping for a moissanite engagement ring, there are a few things you should look for to ensure that you are getting a high-quality stone. Here are some factors to consider:
- Cut
The cut of a moissanite stone is the most important factor in determining its beauty and brilliance. Most importantly, the cut can also determine the grade and value of your ring. Therefore, look for a well-cut stone that has excellent symmetry and a consistent pattern of facets.
- Clarity
Moissanite is a relatively flawless gemstone, so most stones will have few or no visible inclusions. However, it’s still important to look for a stone that is eye-clean and free from any visible blemishes.
- Color
Moissanite is available in a range of colors, from colorless to yellow or green. If you want a stone that looks like a diamond, look for a colorless or near-colorless stone.
- Size
Moissanite is typically less expensive than diamonds, so you can often afford a larger stone for your budget. However, keep in mind that the larger the stone, the more it will cost.
- Certification
Look for a moissanite stone that is certified by a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This will ensure that you are getting a high-quality stone that is accurately graded and described.
Setting Options for Moissanite Engagement Rings
Once you have chosen your moissanite stone, you will need to decide on the setting for your engagement ring. Here are some popular setting options for moissanite engagement rings:
- Solitaire – A solitaire setting is a classic and timeless choice for an engagement ring. It features a single stone in a simple setting that showcases the beauty of the moissanite.
- Halo – A halo setting features a center stone surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds or moissanite stones. This setting can make the center stone appear larger and more brilliant.
- Three-Stone – A three-stone setting features a center stone flanked by two smaller stones on either side. This setting is often chosen to represent the past, present, and future of a relationship.
- Vintage – A vintage setting features intricate details and designs that are inspired by antique engagement rings. This setting is perfect for someone who loves vintage or antique jewelry.
Important Note!
There are different grades of moissanite rings. Moissanite stones are graded based on their color, clarity, and cut, just like diamonds. The grades range from D to K for color, with D being the most colorless, and K has a slightly yellow tint.
The clarity grades range from IF (internally flawless) to SI (slightly included), with IF being the most flawless and SI having minor inclusions visible under magnification. Therefore, it is important to look into these qualities before making your final choice of moissanite engagement rings.
Final Thoughts
Moissanite is a desirable gem for engagement rings. Its close resemblance to diamonds makes it a great alternative to consider during your jewelry shopping. Therefore, Moissanite engagement rings are durable and elegant. Most importantly, they are more affordable than diamonds.