For most brides, the search for their perfect wedding day jewelry can be both long and stressful. The variety of gems, metals, cuts, and settings available can make it difficult to figure out exactly what kind of engagement ring or wedding band you’re looking for. For something truly unique and made to last you through the years, consider moissanite fine jewelry. Whether it’s your engagement ring or your wedding band, moissanite will add beauty and shine to your day while standing up to the test of time!
What is Moissanite?
The word Moissanite is an homage to Nobel Prize-winning scientist Henri Moissan, who discovered silicon carbide in 1893 while examining a meteorite. Though moissanite is not technically a diamond, its chemical structure creates an optical illusion that makes it appear very similar to one. This fact makes it perfect for brides seeking loose moissanite diamonds or Moissanite Earrings. The best part? For many people, moissanites look more dazzling than real diamonds!
What are the different kinds of settings?
Despite a recent reputation as just another diamond substitute, moissanite is on its way to becoming an accepted choice in fine jewelry. Because of their many similarities, it’s no surprise that moissanites are often confused with diamonds. But there are notable differences between diamonds and moissanites, especially when you get up close. This guide will help you discover how to choose settings for loose moissanite diamonds that best highlight your stone while still incorporating classic elements.
How do I choose a ring style?
Loose moissanite diamonds can be cut into multiple shapes and styles, each of which has its own particular look. Your choice of ring style should reflect your personal taste and personality. Many women choose between three classic styles: solitaire (one stone), three-stone and halo (with additional stones surrounding a center stone). If you’re not sure about what style looks best on you, try on different rings with different settings in a store or online until you find one that feels right. Once you’ve found your perfect style, focus on choosing your setting, which is typically made of metal such as white gold or platinum, and often includes smaller stones like diamonds or rubies. Rings can also be set with precious metals like silver or platinum.
How much should I expect to pay?
If you want a custom-designed engagement ring, it’s good to get an idea of how much various options will cost. For example, a small diamond solitaire with a 0.5-carat stone and thin band costs anywhere from $600-$1,000 at most retail locations. A larger center stone with accent diamonds on all sides may run up to $3,000-$4,000 depending on where you shop and what kind of quality you are looking for.
Where can I buy a moissanite engagement ring?
Before you consider buying a moissanite engagement ring, it’s important to learn more about what makes it different from a diamond. Even though they are both inorganic stones, moissanites and diamonds have very different physical properties—properties that affect how they appear when mounted on jewelry. The primary difference between moissanites and diamonds is hardness. In other words, what happens when you press your fingernail against a gemstone? If it’s a diamond, it will likely chip off little bits of your nail bed; if it’s a moissanite, you might be able to leave an indentation with minimal pressure.
Are there any drawbacks to buying moissanite?
Even though moissanite has been on the market for several years, there are still a lot of people out there who haven’t heard of it. And for those who have, there are still some lingering doubts about whether or not it’s as good as diamonds and other fine jewelry. The short answer is: yes! In fact, moissanite has some key advantages over diamonds. It can last indefinitely without losing any color or brilliance (read more about its toughness here) and it can be more affordable than other kinds of jewelry, especially if you plan on combining pieces like a band and engagement ring.