The Science Behind Moissanite's Durability: Why It's The Perfect Choice For Your Jewelry
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Table Of Content: 1. Understanding Moissanite |
Welcome To The Less Diamond Blog, Where We Delve Into The Fascinating World Of Gemstones And Jewelry. Today, We're Focusing On One Of The Most Intriguing And Durable Gemstones Available—Moissanite. Known For Its Brilliance And Resilience, Moissanite Has Become A Popular Choice For Those Seeking A Stunning Alternative To Traditional Diamonds. But What Makes Moissanite So Durable? Let's Explore The Science Behind This Remarkable Gemstone.
Understanding Moissanite:
Moissanite, Also Known As Silicon Carbide (Sic), Was First Discovered In 1893 By French Chemist Henri Moissan. He Found Tiny Particles Of The Gemstone In A Meteor Crater In Arizona, Leading To The Initial Belief That Moissanite Was A Rare Space Gemstone. However, Natural Moissanite Is Extremely Rare, So Today, It Is Primarily Lab-Created To Meet Demand.
The Hardness Factor:
One Of The Key Aspects Of A Gemstone's Durability Is Its Hardness, Which Is Measured On The Mohs Scale. This Scale Ranges From 1 (Talc) To 10 (Diamond). Moissanite Ranks At 9.25 On The Mohs Scale, Making It The Second Hardest Gemstone Next To Diamonds. This Hardness Is A Major Factor In Moissanite's Ability To Resist Scratches And Abrasions, Ensuring That It Maintains Its Brilliant Appearance Over Time.
Toughness And Resistance To Breaking:
While Hardness Measures A Gemstone's Resistance To Scratching, Toughness Refers To Its Ability To Resist Chipping, Cracking, Or Breaking. Moissanite's Crystalline Structure Gives It A Significant Advantage In This Area. Unlike Some Gemstones That May Have Cleavage Planes—Areas Where The Crystal Can Split—Moissanite Does Not Have Any Natural Planes Of Weakness. This Makes It Exceptionally Tough And Able To Withstand Impacts That Might Damage Other Gemstones.
Moissanite 4.70 CT Radiant Cut Diamond Victorian Engagement Ring
Heat Resistance:
Another Aspect Of Moissanite's Durability Is Its Remarkable Heat Resistance. This Gemstone Can Withstand Temperatures Up To 2,000 Degrees Fahrenheit (1,093 Degrees Celsius) Without Any Damage. This Property Not Only Ensures That Moissanite Jewelry Can Endure High-Heat Situations, Such As Accidental Exposure To Open Flames Or Intense Heat During The Jewelry Setting Process, But It Also Speaks To The Overall Stability Of The Gemstone. For Instance, Jewelers Can Safely Use High Temperatures To Solder Or Repair Settings Without Risking Damage To The Moissanite Stone.
Chemical Stability:
Moissanite's Chemical Composition Also Contributes To Its Durability. Silicon Carbide Is Highly Resistant To Chemical Corrosion. This Means That Everyday Exposure To Household Chemicals, Such As Cleaning Agents Or Beauty Products, Is Unlikely To Affect The Gemstone. While It Is Always Advisable To Handle All Jewelry With Care, Moissanite's Resilience To Chemicals Adds An Extra Layer Of Security And Longevity To Your Jewelry Pieces.
Optical Properties And Durability:
The Optical Properties Of Moissanite Also Play A Role In Its Perceived Durability. Moissanite Has A Higher Refractive Index (2.65-2.69) Than Diamond (2.42), Which Means It Bends Light More Effectively And Displays A Greater Degree Of Brilliance And Fire. This Dazzling Sparkle Not Only Enhances The Visual Appeal Of Moissanite But Also Helps Mask Any Minor Abrasions Or Dirt That Might Accumulate On The Surface. As A Result, Moissanite Jewelry Tends To Maintain Its Stunning Appearance With Minimal Upkeep.
Comparative Durability: Moissanite Vs. Diamond:
When Comparing Moissanite To Diamond, It's Clear That Both Gemstones Offer Exceptional Durability. However, Moissanite Has Some Distinct Advantages:
- Hardness: While Diamond Is Harder, Moissanite Is Close Behind And Still Significantly Harder Than Most Other Gemstones.
- Toughness: Moissanite's Lack Of Cleavage Planes Gives It Superior Toughness Compared To Diamond, Which Has Perfect Cleavage And Can Split Along Its Planes Under Sharp Impact.
- Heat Resistance: Moissanite’s Ability To Withstand Extreme Temperatures Makes It More Resilient In Various Settings.
- Chemical Resistance: Both Gemstones Are Highly Resistant To Chemical Corrosion, Though Moissanite's Silicon Carbide Composition Gives It A Slight Edge.
Moissanite 40.64 CT Round Cut Diamond Avant Garde Watch
Practical Implications For Jewelry Wearers:
For Those Who Lead Active Lifestyles Or Prefer Low-Maintenance Jewelry, Moissanite Is An Excellent Choice. Its Hardness Ensures It Won't Easily Scratch Or Scuff, And Its Toughness Means It Can Withstand Accidental Drops Or Knocks. Additionally, The Gemstone's Heat And Chemical Resistance Make It Ideal For Everyday Wear, From Work To Play.
Caring For Your Moissanite Jewelry:
Although Moissanite Is Highly Durable, Proper Care Will Ensure It Remains As Beautiful As The Day You Bought It. Here Are Some Tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean Your Moissanite Jewelry With A Soft Brush, Mild Soap, And Warm Water. Avoid Harsh Chemicals That Can Damage The Setting.
- Storage: Store Your Moissanite Pieces Separately To Prevent Them From Scratching Other Jewelry Items.
- Professional Maintenance: Have Your Moissanite Jewelry Inspected By A Professional Jeweler Periodically To Ensure The Settings Are Secure And The Gemstone Remains In Pristine Condition.
Conclusion:
Moissanite's Durability Is A Testament To Its Exceptional Physical And Chemical Properties. Its Hardness, Toughness, Heat Resistance, And Chemical Stability Make It An Ideal Choice For Jewelry That Can Withstand The Rigors Of Daily Life While Maintaining Its Breathtaking Sparkle. Whether You're Looking For An Engagement Ring, A Pair Of Earrings, Or A Timeless Pendant, Moissanite Offers A Brilliant, Durable Alternative To Traditional Diamonds.
At Less Diamond, We Pride Ourselves On Offering High-Quality Moissanite Jewelry That Combines Beauty, Durability, And Affordability. Explore Our Collection Today And Discover Why Moissanite Is The Perfect Gemstone For Those Who Value Both Elegance And Endurance.
Thank You For Joining Us On This Journey Into The Science Behind Moissanite's Durability. Stay Tuned To The Less Diamond Blog For More Insights And Tips On Choosing The Perfect Jewelry For Every Occasion.
