Moissanite diamonds are becoming increasingly popular as an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diamonds. However, with the rise in popularity of moissanite, it’s important to be able to spot genuine moissanite diamonds from imitations. In this article, we will discuss the key features to look for when identifying genuine moissanite diamonds.
### What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral that is often used as a diamond alternative in jewelry. It is known for its brilliance, fire, and durability, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces.
### Brilliance and Fire
One of the key features of moissanite diamonds is their brilliance and fire. Genuine moissanite diamonds have a high refractive index, which means they reflect light extremely well. This results in a dazzling sparkle that is often even more intense than that of a traditional diamond.
### Double Refraction
Another key feature of moissanite diamonds is their double refraction. When you look through a genuine moissanite diamond, you may see a doubling of the facets, giving the stone a unique appearance. This double refraction is a natural characteristic of moissanite and can help you distinguish it from other gemstones.
### Color
Moissanite diamonds are typically near colorless, with a slight yellow or green tint. Genuine moissanite diamonds are not completely colorless like some diamonds, so if you come across a moissanite that is perfectly colorless, it may be an imitation.
### Hardness
Moissanite is one of the hardest known minerals, ranking at 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it extremely durable and resistant to scratching, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear. If you are unsure about the hardness of a stone, you can try scratching it with another material like a diamond or a piece of glass to test its durability.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, spotting genuine moissanite diamonds is not difficult if you know what to look for. By paying attention to the brilliance, double refraction, color, and hardness of the stone, you can easily identify whether a moissanite diamond is real or not. Remember, moissanite diamonds offer a beautiful and affordable alternative to traditional diamonds, so don’t be afraid to explore this option for your next jewelry purchase.