Moissanite diamonds, also known as silicon carbide, have gained popularity in recent years as an affordable alternative to traditional diamonds. With their brilliance and hardness, they can easily be mistaken for real diamonds. However, there are a few key differences that can help you determine whether a diamond is moissanite or the real deal.
H2: Understanding Moissanite
Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan, who found microscopic particles of the mineral in a meteor crater in Arizona. It is extremely rare to find moissanite in its natural form, so most moissanite on the market today is lab-created. These lab-grown stones exhibit similar physical and optical properties as natural moissanite.
H3: Differences in Appearance
One of the first things to look for when trying to determine if a diamond is moissanite is its brilliance. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, meaning it reflects light differently. As a result, moissanite has a higher brilliance and fire, giving it a rainbow-like sparkle.
Another difference in appearance is the color of the stone. While diamonds can come in a range of colors, moissanite is typically colorless or near-colorless. If the stone you are examining has a yellow or brown tint, it is more likely to be a diamond.
H3: Hardness Test
Diamonds are known for their exceptional hardness, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite, on the other hand, is slightly lower on the scale, with a hardness of 9.25. This means that while moissanite is still very durable, it is not as scratch-resistant as a diamond.
To conduct a hardness test, you can use a diamond tester or try scratching the stone with another diamond. If the stone shows any signs of scratching, it is likely moissanite.
H3: Conducting Heat Test
Diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, while moissanite is not. To conduct a heat test, you can use a thermal conductivity tester or simply breathe on the stone. If the fog from your breath dissipates quickly, it is likely a diamond. If it lingers, it is probably moissanite.
H3: Price
Price can also be a clue when determining whether a diamond is moissanite or not. Moissanite is much more affordable than diamonds, so if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. However, it is important to note that some diamonds can be artificially priced low, so it is not a foolproof method.
H2: Conclusion
While moissanite diamonds can be a stunning and cost-effective alternative to traditional diamonds, it is important to be able to identify them properly. By examining the stone’s brilliance, color, hardness, and conducting a few simple tests, you can determine whether the diamond in question is moissanite or the real deal. Remember, when in doubt, it is always best to consult a professional jeweler for confirmation.