One needs to go back 50,000 years in order to understand the amazing story of moissanite. It was around time that a meteorite crashed into the earth in a remote area of Northern Arizona. The impact was violent and created what is known these days as Meteor Crater. The crashing meteor created a huge hole measuring almost a mile across and 570 feet deep in the earth’s surface. On impact, fragments of the meteorite were strewn across the desert, with some pieces coming to land in Diablo Canyon.
Small quantities of never-before seen sparkling material contained within these fragments were discovered by Dr. Henri Moissan, a prominent French scientist, in 1893. Dr. Moissan, who later became a Nobel Prize winner, conducted extensive research on these shimmering particles and came to the conclusion that it was a completely new mineral called silicon carbide.
In 1905, George Kunz, a famous gem expert and mineralogist with Tiffany and Co, recommended that this new gem be named “moissanite,” after the esteemed Dr. Moissan.
Naturally-occurring moissanite is extremely rare. In fact, it is so scarce, that the quantities that are found, isn’t sufficient to create even one pair of earrings.
CREE, a company situated in North Carolina, was so inspired by Dr. Moissan’s amazing discovery, that they developed a process in the 1980s for producing large, single stones of this new-found gem. Later on, in 1995, a master diamond cutter, after studying samples of the crystal, suggested that if cut properly, they could become a new, brilliant jewel.
A few days later, CREE, as well as Charles & Colvard scientists started a research project lasting for three years that would bring the brilliance and fire of moissanite to consumers. In 1998, moissanite was introduced to the world and jewelry has since then, never been the same.
Moissanite Vs Diamonds
This crystal is fast becoming a popular choice in the engagement ring scene. Jewelers report an astounding increase in customers wanting to get their hands on custom-designed engagement rings that feature moissanite instead of the traditional diamond.
It is a great alternative to diamonds, since they are white in color, have plenty of sparkle and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Because the cost of this gem is extremely low compared to diamonds, customers have more freedom of choice when it comes to size and intricate settings without having to clean out their bank accounts.
With a score of 9,25 on the Mohr’s scale of hardness, moissanite is almost as hard as the 10 score of a diamond, making it incredibly durable and suitable for everyday wear.
When you compare the fire and sparkle of this crystal and diamonds, the brilliant crystal wins hands down and that extra sparkle is what the majority of people find most appealing about this amazing new jewel.
