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Moissanite and Lab Diamond History & Facts
What Are moissanites?
Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide and is a rare mineral that originates from space meteorites. Moissanites were first discovered by chemist Dr. Henri Moissan at the site of a massive meteorite strike in Arizona, USA. This new stone was named 'moissanite' in his honor as Dr. Moissan spent the rest of his life attempting to recreate this rare mineral in his laboratory.
It wasn't until the late 80's where scientists developed the innovative thermal growing process that made moissanites more widely available to consumers.
Are lab diamonds real diamonds?
Lab diamonds and natural diamonds are materially and physically identical. The only difference will be their origin. Lab diamonds, as specified by their namesake, are synthetically produced in a lab via CVD (Chemical vapor deposition) or HPHT (High pressure high temperature) methods while natural diamonds undergo the same process underground naturally.
What is the difference between moissanite and lab diamond?
Lab diamonds and moissanite while similar in appearance have completely different chemical compositions. The difference in composition gives moissanite a slightly higher refractive index (overall brilliance).
The general public will not be able to discern any difference between the two stones, but a trained gemologist should be able to ascertain which stone is which in most instances.
What is the difference between Forever One and Resplendent moissanite?
Charles & Colvard's Forever One line and our own Gema&Co Resplendent Moissanite are materially the same thing. Both are guaranteed to be DEF in color and VS clarity or better. Charles & Colvard is the original producer of Moissanite and has been creating them for over 30 years. As such they have a slightly tighter variance in terms of clarity, and the majority of their stones actually fall in the VVS1 range, while our Resplendent Moissanite will be in the VVS2 range. This difference is not discernible to the naked eye and only under 10x magnification.
We also have no control over Charles & Colvard's pricing, but are able to offer our in house produced stones at the best possible prices.
Is moissanite a brand of simulated diamond or simulated diamond?
Moissanite is not a Diamond or substitute of a Diamond, either scientifically, chemically or emotionally. Moissanite is not a fake Diamond but rather a different type of clear gemstone (just like White Sapphires) with its own set of chemical and optical properties.
Why are moissanites sold by millimeter rather than carats?
Carat is the traditional unit of measurement for a Diamond's weight. Moissanites are not measured in carats because it weighs approximately 10 percent less than diamond. For example, a 6.5mm round diamond would weigh 1.0ct, while a 6.5mm round moissanite would weigh 0.88ct. The two stones would visually be the same size - 6.5mm in diameter. All stones for sale are listed with their size in millimeters and the diamond equivalent weight (DEW) in carats.
Can I see specific sizes and shapes?
Absolutely! Please email us at support@gemaandco.com or text (415) 813-6505 to see specific rings on model.
Color, Cut, and Clarity
Will moissanite color fade or change over time?
There are no likely situations in which the color of moissanite (or any other gemstone) will be permanently changed.
Moissanites and diamonds will experience a temporary color change when exposed to extreme heat from a jeweler's torch during jewelry repair, but with proper bench techniques there will be no lasting damage, and the stone will return to its normal color once it cools.
What color, cut, and clarity are Gema&Co's moissanites and lab diamonds?
All center stones available on our Gema&Co webstore will be the highest quality DEF color and VS+ clarity. Lower qualities can be requested if desired and pricing will be adjusted accordingly.
Do moissanites have inclusions?
Moissanite, just like diamonds, can have needle-like and/or cloud-like inclusions. However, all moissanites sold through Gema&Co will be VS quality and inclusions will generally not be visible to the naked eye and will not affect the clarity of the stone.
It's worth noting that nearly every gem has some sort of inclusion. They are unique characteristics, which occur in the formation of the crystalline structure.
How are moissanites graded?
Gema&Co moissanites are graded by gemologists certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Each Moissanite is studied by trained grading specialists using special instruments and a 10x jeweler's loupe for any inclusions that may affect the gemstone’s quality.
What is your warranty policy?
All stones are covered by a limited lifetime warranty guaranteeing that they will be free of manufacturing defects and will not discolor over time.
Settings are covered by an industry best two year warranty where we cover repairs for all minor damage from daily wear and tear. Extensive damage damage is reviewed on a case by case basis.