What Is Moissanite?

Enter the most out-of-this-world gemstone.
Literally.
Moissanite was originally discovered inside a meteor crater.
French scientist and explorer Dr Henri Moissan can be thanked for introducing this unique chemical compound to the world in 1893. Welcome, silicon carbide!

This star-born gemstone is extremely rare and can only be found in a few meteor craters around the world, so all the moissanite you see in circulation today is man-made.

Since scientists learned to synthesize moissanite, it’s become a popular stone setting for engagement rings and fine jewellery pieces. Its durability is similar to a diamond, and its shimmer is even brighter.

So, what are some of the benefits of a moissanite engagement ring?

And what are our favourite engagement rings featuring the moissanite stone?

We’re glad you asked.

Moissanite vs. Natural Diamonds — What’s the Difference?

Actually, there’s a big difference. Moissanite and diamonds aren’t made from the same organic materials. A diamond is made from carbon, and moissanite comes from silicon carbide. However, the gemstones look almost the same to the naked eye.

That’s why, when shopping for a diamond ring, you may be offered moissanite as a purchasing option.

Here’s What You Should Consider When Purchasing Moissanite

These are our top considerations when purchasing any form of fine jewellery. Grab a pen and paper and create a checklist for everything you want in an engagement ring. Then, see if moissanite is the dream match.

Durability

Moissanite is an extremely durable stone—second only to the diamond. It’s often used for industrial purposes and can cut through almost anything. If your soon-to-be fiancé is a particularly active person, durability is essential to your ring choice.

Shine

Let’s talk about the glow. There’s something extra special about moissanite—the characteristic rainbow glow the stone gives off. Similar to a prism or crystal, catch this ring in the sunlight, and your home will be lit up in sparkles. If shine is important to your engagement ring, definitely consider moissanite.

Budget

The average engagement ring cost is around $5,500. There are lots of variables that play into your overall ring cost. You’ll consider the stone choice, the number of stones included, precious metal type, karat size, and more. Moissanite is considered a semi-precious stone and is the most budget-friendly diamond alternative. This means you’ll have lots of extra room in your budget to include additional stones or flex with carat weight.

Long-Term Investment

What are your goals for long-term investment? This is a tricky question. Sometimes it involves the legacy you leave for your children and grandchildren. Passing down an heirloom piece is passing down a precious treasure, and you want your treasure to be durable and increase in value over time.

While moissanite is certainly durable, the value of the stone isn’t likely to increase since it’s made in a lab. This is something you should weigh when deciding between moissanite and a nature-made diamond ring.

Best Moissanite Engagement Rings for Couples

There are some rings that just hit differently with a moissanite centre. Let’s explore them.

The Halo Engagement Ring in Moissanite

The halo engagement ring features a bold centre stone with a shimmering halo of diamonds surrounding it. The centre stone can be a colourful precious stone, or it can be made with the same gemstones as featured on the outer halo. This will give your engagement ring the effect of looking larger.

The Solitaire Engagement Ring

Get something that will be loved for generations. A solitaire engagement ring is a great option for your moissanite stone feature. Since moissanite is so budget-friendly, you’ll be able to include a show-stopping gem size on the solitaire. Customize it to fit your own style with filigree, engraving, and precious metal.

The Vintage Engagement Ring in Moissanite

Embrace your inner 1940s with a vintage engagement ring featuring the moissanite stone. You’ll get all the classic allure with none of the environmental harm.

Men’s Engagement Rings Featuring Moissanite

Men’s engagement rings are becoming popular as more egalitarian relationships emerge. She wants a chance to get down on one knee, too. Consider purchasing a men’s engagement ring made with moissanite. Our personal favourite design is the studded band.

The Spiritual Benefits of Moissanite

Even though moissanite is created in a lab, don’t count it out for spiritual healing benefits. The chemical compound of moissanite creates a wonderful space for the wearer to experience rumination and bond with their inner child.

Moissanite is also known as a romantic stone. It’s featured in engagement rings and wedding bands, but there’s an even deeper meaning behind its growing popularity. The moissanite stone is strong and used around the world for industrial purposes. Putting it on his or her finger is a way to express the strength and unbreakable value of your love story.

Lab-Created Diamond Options Similar to Moissanite

Moissanite has a sister stone—the lab-created diamond.

These stones are almost identical in appearance but are different in their chemical makeup.

Choosing between the moissanite stone and a lab-created diamond is a personal decision. You’ll want to consider your goals and your budget. Which gemstone would be the most meaningful to your partner?

Whichever you pick, you can rest assured that both the lab-created diamond and the moissanite stone are environmentally friendly.

All the glow with no mining required.

Other Moissanite Fine Jewelry Options

The greatest features of moissanite are the price and the vibrancy of the stone. This makes moissanite an excellent choice for other fine jewellery pieces. Go crazy studying necklaces, bracelets, and earrings with this inexpensive semi-precious stone.

Be inspired by fashion jewellery icons like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn—and prepare to arrive at your next black-tie event, studded with reflective moissanite.

Your Love Story Begins with Moissanite

After all the craziness of engagement ring shopping is over, you may find that a moissanite engagement ring is a perfect way to begin your love story. Don’t look back.

Your out-of-this-world romance is worth celebrating with a meteorite-inspired stone to match.