What is Moissanite?

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is the name given to silicon carbide and its various crystalline polymorphs that naturally occur in nature.  The chemical formula for this substance is SiC and it is classified as a rare mineral.

Discovered in 1893 by Dr. Henri Moissan, and later named for him, Moissanite traces its origins to a meteor crater where particles were found in Arizona.  Naturally occurring Moissanite is found in very small quantities in the earth and these Moissanite crystals are not abundant in desired sizes appropriate for jewelry production.

Given the scarcity of the natural occurring material, over the years scientists worked hard to create Moissanite in a laboratory.  With the help of technology, scientists finally succeeded in producing a stone with near-colorless properties that is durable, and when cut properly yields a stone with incredible brilliance and fire.

Created Moissanite is produced in a controlled environment that ensures consistency and quality standards are achieved.  In this production method, Created Moissanite is produced in large silicon carbide crystals.  These crystals are then hand-cut and hand-faceted with specific techniques to produce a gemstone exhibiting optical properties of extraordinary brilliance and fire. 

What is Forever One Moissanite?

Forever One is the premium brand of moissanite. These gems fall within the range of internally flawless to very slightly included (IF-VS). Such unparalleled clarity is only available from the silicon carbide material we use to make our gemstones, which is manufactured through a patented process. The color, or lack thereof, of these gems is impeccable. Forever One gems are available in two grades: colorless or near-colorless (DEF-GHI). And, the cuts of these stones are unmatched. 

Will Moissanite retain its value over time?

Due to its rarity and unrivaled beauty, Forever One created moissanite is expected to retain or increase its value over time.

Is Moissanite an Ideal Cut Stone? 

Carefully and precisely faceted, each Forever One created Moissanite gemstone is cut according to exact angles and proportions specific to Moissanite. When cutting Moissanite, precision is critical to maximizing its brilliance and enhancing its incredible fire.

How is Moissanite graded for Clarity?

Each Forever One gem is studied by Graduate Gemologists, certified by the Gemological Institute of America, using a 10x jeweler’s loupe for any imperfections that may affect its optical performance. 

What property of Moissanite makes it Sparkle with such exceptional Brilliance?

The most significant optical property affecting a gemstone’s brilliance, or sparkle, is the brilliance refractive index or BRI. The BRI of Moissanite ranges from 2.65 to 2.69, meaning it displays more brilliance than diamond (with a BRI of 2.42) or any other popular gemstone 

Will the Brilliance of Moissanite ever fade?

No. I Forever Do guarantees that every Forever One created Moissanite gemstone will maintain its brilliance and fire forever.

Will Moissanite fade or change Color over time?

No. There are no likely situations in which the color of Moissanite will be permanently changed. Moissanite does undergo a temporary color change when exposed to extreme heat from a jeweler’s torch during jewelry repair, but with proper bench techniques there will be no lasting damage and the stone will return to its normal color once it cools.

Is Moissanite graded on the GIA Diamond Color Grading Scale?

Moissanite grading uses a color grading scale that is based upon the GIA diamond color grading scale. There are three grades of moissanite available today: colorless (D-E-F range), near-colorless (G-H-I range) and with faint hues of color (J-K range). 

Is Moissanite resistant to scratching?

Yes. Moissanite is durable, tough and extremely resistant to scratching and abrasion. With a hardness of 9.25-9.50, Moissanite is harder than all other gemstones except Diamond.

Does Moissanite break easily?

No. Moissanite is one of the toughest known gemstones.

How should I care for my Moissanite jewelry?

You may clean Moissanite the same way you would Diamond or any other fine gemstone. As with any fine jewelry item, an ultrasonic cleaner can be used. However, it is best to be gentle with your valuable treasures. You can also clean your moissanite jewelry using a commercial (non-acid based) jewelry cleaner or with mild soap and water using a soft toothbrush. 

There is a haze or film on the stone, tried cleaning it but it won't come off, is this normal?

Gemstones are exposed to many different elements when you wear them. Because of this, an organic build-up or “film” can occur on created gemstones such as moissanite. It is not harmful to the gemstone however it cannot be removed with over-the-counter jewelry cleaner or with a jewelry store cleaning.

This film can be easily removed with a Sunshine Polishing Cloth. Another option that works well would be to use any silversmith polish that can be found in your local hardware or grocery store. Feel free to contact our Customer Service department with any specific questions related to cleaning moissanite.

How does Moissanite compare to other Gemstones on key Gemological properties? 

Moissanite is comparable to other popular gemstones including diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald on key characteristics such as hardness, fire and brilliance. On the Brilliance Refractive Index, moissanite is more brilliant than any other gemstone, ranging from 2.65-2.69 on the scale. Its fire dispersion is over 4x greater than any other popular gemstone. On the MOHs hardness scale, moissanite comes in second only to a diamond, measuring at 9.25. In addition, moissanite's durability is excellent, meaning it will survive daily wear and tear. 

FOREVER ONE MOISSANITE
Made of Silicon Carbide
Hardness Scale: 9.25 - 9.50
Color: Colorless (D-E-F) and Near Colorless (G-H-I)
Clarity: Internally Flawless (IF) to Very Slightly Included (VS1)
Cut: Excellent
Polish: Excellent
Symmetry: Excellent