SiC/Silicon Carbide Raw Material Grade A Can Be Cut Into Moissanite

SiC/Silicon carbide raw material grade A can be cut into Mosan drill

Product description

Moissanite is a mineral composed of silicon carbide. Often referred to as the gemstone from the stars, it was discovered in 1893 inside of a meteorite in Canyon Diablo, Arizona, by Nobel Prize-winning chemist Henri Moissan. Initially mistakenly identifying his discovery as diamonds, it wasn’t until 1904 that Moissan determined the crystals were, in fact, silicon carbide. This naturally occurring mineral form of what we now call moissanite was named in honor of Moissan later in his life.

In its natural form, moissanite remains very rare. It wasn’t until 1958 that geologists found it outside of meteorites: first, in the Earth’s upper mantle near Wyoming, and then, the following year, as inclusions in rock in Russia.

Today, moissanite is exclusively grown in laboratories as an alternative to diamonds. Created in a controlled environment with advanced technology, it is easily traceable and requires no mining. This means moissanite has a smaller carbon footprint and lessened environmental impact than a naturally mined gem.

Increasingly popular as an alternative to diamonds, moissanite is now widely used in jewelry, especially as the center stone of engagement rings.

Product parameter

Product comparison

• Durability

Moissanite, Diamond, and Lab Diamond Comparison: Moissanite has a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, demonstrating its suitability for daily wear. In contrast, diamonds, both natural and lab-grown, top the scale at 10. This makes them the most durable option, commonly preferred for engagement rings due to their ability to withstand wear over time.

• Brilliance and Color

Moissanite vs. Diamond (Natural and Lab-Grown): Moissanite outshines both types of diamonds with a higher refractive index of 2.64 to 2.69, resulting in greater brilliance and over twice the fire. This makes moissanite particularly noticeable in stones larger than 1 carat. While natural and lab diamonds have a refractive index of 2.417 to 2.419, they offer substantial dispersion and scintillation but less fire compared to moissanite. In terms of color, moissanites are available from colorless to various hues like teal and yellow. Natural diamonds range from colorless to shades such as pink and blue, impacted by trace elements. Lab diamonds also offer a similar color spectrum, often with more intense hues.

• Price and Sourcing

Affordability and Origin of Gemstones: Moissanite is significantly more affordable than both natural and lab-grown diamonds, priced according to size, shape, and clarity. Natural diamonds command the highest prices, reflecting their rarity and the lengthy natural processes involved in their formation. Lab diamonds, while less expensive than natural ones, are still pricier than moissanite but offer the same grading based on the 4 C's. As for sourcing, moissanite and lab diamonds are both cultivated in controlled lab environments, ensuring consistency and availability. Natural diamonds, however, are mined from deep within the Earth, making each stone unique but also raising concerns about the environmental and ethical implications of their extraction.

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