Moissanite Diamonds: How to Identify Genuine Stones with Simple Features
Moissanite diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their affordability and similarity to natural diamonds. However, it is important to be able to identify genuine moissanite stones to avoid being deceived by synthetic or counterfeit diamonds. In this article, we will discuss some simple features that can help you distinguish between genuine moissanite diamonds and imitations.
H2: Understanding Moissanite Diamonds
Before we delve into the features that can help identify genuine moissanite diamonds, let’s first understand what moissanite diamonds are. Moissanite is a gemstone that was originally discovered in a meteor crater by French chemist Henri Moissan in 1893. It is a naturally occurring mineral, but most moissanite on the market today is lab-grown.
H2: Brilliance and Fire
One of the key characteristics of moissanite diamonds is their exceptional brilliance and fire. Moissanite stones have a higher refractive index compared to diamonds, which means they reflect more light and produce a greater sparkle. When examining a moissanite diamond, look for a high level of brilliance and fire that is not typically seen in natural diamonds.
H3: Double Refraction
Another feature that sets moissanite diamonds apart from natural diamonds is their double refraction. When light passes through a moissanite stone, it splits into two rays, creating a double image. This effect is not present in natural diamonds, so if you observe a double image when looking at a stone, it is likely a moissanite diamond.
H3: Color
Color is an important factor to consider when identifying moissanite diamonds. Unlike natural diamonds, moissanite stones often exhibit a yellow or greenish tint, especially in larger sizes. However, lab-grown moissanite diamonds are available in a range of colors, including colorless, so this feature alone may not be enough to determine if a stone is genuine.
H2: Hardness
Moissanite diamonds are known for their exceptional hardness, second only to natural diamonds on the Mohs scale. A genuine moissanite stone will not scratch easily and can withstand everyday wear and tear. To test the hardness, you can try scratching the stone with another diamond or a material with a lower hardness. If the stone remains unscratched, it is likely a genuine moissanite diamond.
H2: Expert Opinion
While these features can help you identify genuine moissanite diamonds, it is always recommended to seek the opinion of a professional jeweler or gemologist. They have the knowledge and experience to accurately determine the authenticity of a diamond. Additionally, they may use specialized equipment, such as a diamond tester, to confirm the identity of a stone.
Conclusion
Identifying genuine moissanite diamonds can be a challenging task, but by understanding the unique features of these stones, you can increase your chances of making an informed purchase. Remember to look for exceptional brilliance and fire, double refraction, color variations, and hardness. And always consult with a professional jeweler or gemologist for expert advice. With these tips in mind, you can confidently navigate the world of moissanite diamonds and find the perfect stone for your needs.