Moissanite is a gemstone composed of silicon carbide (SiC). This material is recognized for its exceptional optical properties, including remarkable brilliance and fire, alongside its notable durability. Its unique crystalline structure contributes to its hardness, making it a desirable material.
The Discovery of Natural Moissanite
The story of moissanite began in 1893 when French chemist Henri Moissan discovered minute crystals in a meteorite crater in Canyon Diablo, Arizona. Moissan initially misidentified these sparkling crystals as diamonds due to their similar brilliance and hardness. However, further research in 1904 led him to correctly identify them as silicon carbide, a previously unknown mineral.
Natural moissanite is exceedingly rare, occurring only in microscopic quantities. It has been found primarily in meteorites and as tiny inclusions within certain geological formations, such as kimberlite. The extreme scarcity and minuscule size of naturally occurring moissanite make it impractical and unviable for use in jewelry, making it unavailable for commercial gemstone purposes.
The Rise of Lab-Created Moissanite
Given the extreme rarity of natural moissanite, scientists embarked on synthesizing this material for commercial use. The development of lab-created moissanite allows for the production of larger, high-quality crystals suitable for jewelry. This synthetic process typically involves heating carbon and silica to very high temperatures in a controlled environment. Under these conditions, silicon atoms arrange themselves into the crystalline structure of moissanite.
The controlled laboratory conditions enable the growth of moissanite crystals with consistent purity and optical characteristics. Virtually all moissanite available in the jewelry market today is lab-created, offering a consistent and accessible supply. This synthetic version possesses the same chemical composition and physical properties as its natural counterpart.
Distinguishing Natural and Lab-Created Moissanite
The primary distinction between natural and lab-created moissanite lies in their availability and scale. Natural moissanite exists only as microscopic particles, unsuitable for use as a gemstone. In contrast, lab-created moissanite is intentionally grown in sizes and qualities appropriate for jewelry.
While chemically identical, subtle differences can arise from their distinct formation processes. Lab-created moissanite benefits from controlled environments, allowing for consistent purity and crystal structure. Distinguishing between lab-created moissanite and natural diamonds often requires specialized gemological equipment, as their visual similarities can be striking to the unaided eye.
Why the Origin of Moissanite Matters
The origin of moissanite holds significant implications for consumers, influencing cost, availability, and ethical considerations. Lab-created moissanite is considerably more affordable than natural diamonds due to its controlled production in laboratories. This accessibility makes it a popular choice for those seeking a brilliant gemstone at a more attainable price point.
Lab-created moissanite is readily available in a wide array of sizes, cuts, and colors, providing consumers with extensive options for jewelry. The controlled environment of laboratory growth also ensures a consistent and reliable supply. The production of lab-created moissanite avoids the environmental and social impacts often associated with the mining of natural gemstones, offering a more sustainable and ethically conscious choice.