The green revolution has come to the jewelry industry, and the moissanite movement is continuing to capture buyers that are switching to this gorgeous gem for their engagement ring of choice. This rare gem that can now be made in a laboratory was initially discovered by chemist Henri Moissan, and is currently being used as an equal yet environmentally friendly rival to the diamond. If you're not quite sure if moissanite is suitable for you, the answers to these frequently asked questions should help you to make the right decision.

How is moissanite made?

Pressurized and heated silicon and carbon creates a silicon carbide bond, which is the third hardest compound on the planet. Moissanite crystals are then cut and polished to perfection by faceting vendors for use in fine jewelry. Moissanite is inspected just like diamonds and is scored on a scale designed explicitly for this gem. Cut, carat, and weight specifications are scored similarly to diamonds, and moissanite gemstones require a highly trained eye to tell apart from its diamond counterpart. 

Why moissanite versus a diamond?

The benefits of moissanite are endless. First and foremost, it's one of the most ethically responsible consumer products that you can buy because there are no environmental or human rights repercussions that result from sourcing this gem. Secondly, since many couples are now choosing to marry later in life and scale down weddings, saving money on the engagement ring and using those funds to start a life with loved ones is a better investment for most partners. Finally, moissanite is much kinder to wallets and is also exceptionally durable, which makes it the perfect ring.

Can moissanite really be classified as a fine gem?

The short answer is an absolute YES! The brilliance that moissanite ensues is pure fire, and a rainbow of brilliant color reflects from this stunning gemstone. Gems are characterized by their hardness, luster, color, clarity, cut, carat, and rarity. Moissanite scores a 9.25 out of 10 on the Mohs scale, which measures a gem's susceptibility to surface damage. Each cut gem is inspected and benchmarked against a scale to rate its luster and other broad characteristics.

What's really wrong with diamonds?

The diamond industry has been tainted by war, human rights violations, and child labor abuses. In the past 15 years, there has been a global push to eliminate the sale of diamonds. Consumer preferences have also changed, and millennials are buying fewer diamonds because of the cost, look, and environmental/human rights issues surrounding this glittering gem. For the new generation of jewelry buyers, moissanite is the gem that represents the ultimate American Dream of financial independence and durability.