Uncovering the Gemstone, Moissanite

Moissanite is an extremely rare mineral that was discovered in 1893, in the Diablo Canyon of Arizona in the United States. It is found only in meteorites and extremely limited areas underneath the earth's core. A Nobel Prize Winning French chemist by the name of Ferdinand Henri Moissan discovered the rare stone. It is, as is common practice, named after its founder.

Because the stone is brilliant, as well as both hard and tough, it rivals every other gemstone in the world. With its unique fire and beauty, it quickly became a popular alternative gem for those who could not afford diamonds. However, its rarity made it difficult to find, making it a popular candidate for synthesizing within the laboratory.

Unlike many other synthetic gems, moissanite proved outstanding and quickly found its own following. In fact, many argue that the synthetic gemstone of is every bit as vibrant and sturdy as its Mother Nature version.

Most gem cutters prefer moissanite to most synthetic diamonds because it is thermally conductive just like diamonds, while other similar simulants are not. Jewelers are also fond of the gem because of its unmatched fire and amazing light refraction. Both are more than twice that of the natural diamond.

Moissanite is hard, ranking more than a nine on the Mohs scale of hardness. It can be cut into a wide variety of types of cuts and shapes, which keeps it from being relegated to the same status as many other synthetic stones. It can, in fact, be cut into the fanciest, experimental cuts of the day.

Moissanite is set into all types of precious metals, including platinum. However, because of its unique luster most jewelers prefer setting it in either yellow or white gold.

Moissanite's beauty, fire, and brilliance also make it the perfect stone for setting into virtually any type of jewelry. Because it is nearly as hard as a diamond, it is even durable enough for use in bracelets and rings.

So far, little work has been done to attempt to color moissanite in order to simulate highly expensive colored diamonds. However, it is anticipated that may well be the next step in the gem's evolution.

Taking care of this gem isn't difficult either. Because it is scratch-resistant and doesn't crack or break easily, it can even be immersed in ultra-sonic cleaners. However, most will find that it is just as easily cleaned with a liquid jewelry cleaner and soft brush.

Moissanite can be stored with virtually any type of stone, but care should still be taken to protect it; particularly when delicate settings are involved. For that reason, it is suggested that moissanite jewelry be pouched in cloth or velvet before storage.

Although moissanite is considerably cheaper than diamonds, it still can't be regarded as an inexpensive stone. Perhaps as more come on board to simulate the gem, it will come down in price. One thing is certain. It is highly unlikely that the same can ever be said for diamonds.

There are no metaphysical or healing properties currently attached to this gemstone. Neither is it attached to any birth month or anniversary year at this time. Likewise, there is no attachment to any astrological sign.