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If you’re hunting for ethical diamond alternatives, you’ve probably heard about moissanite. Maybe you’ve wondered — what it moissanite, anyway? Is moissanite ethical?
In this post, I’ll address the ethics of moissanite and also give a quick overview of what the heck it is. Keep reading!
What is Moissanite?
First, let’s give a quick overview of moissanite. Moissanite is a naturally occurring silicon carbide, discovered by French chemist Henri Moissan “in the wild” in 1893 (you get to name stuff after yourself if you discover it, I guess. Pretty sweet deal).
Although it does occur naturally, it’s extremely rare. Any moissanite that you find on the market is created in a lab.
Moissanite is not a “fake diamond,” nor is it cubic zirconia. It’s important to know that it is its own gem and should be appreciated as such. Although it does bear a resemblance to diamond, it also has its own qualities that set it apart.
Moissanite is available in a variety of colors, but the colorless version is the one most often used in engagement jewelry. At first glance, it is much like a diamond. However, put the two side-by-side and you will note that moissanite exhibits more “fire” than a diamond. Yes — it’s actually more fiery and sparkly than a diamond. In fact, it’s has more fire than any other gemstone.
Moissanite also throws more colors (think “prism”) than a diamond. Some people love this trait, others prefer the “steely” white brilliance of a diamond. (Then there are people like me that love them both…)
On the Mohs Hardness Scale, a diamond is a 10 — the hardest naturally occurring mineral. However, moissanite comes in second place at 9.25 to 9.50, making it a very durable stone. Like a diamond, moissanite is suitable for everyday wear.
Is Moissanite an Ethical Diamond Alternative?
Good news — if you’re looking for a more ethical alternative to a mined diamond, moissanite is an excellent option.
Because it’s made in a lab, it doesn’t come along with the environmental issues that plague mined diamonds. In fact, there is no mining involved in the creation of moissanite, meaning you can get yourself that stone without worrying about the impact of mining the earth.
Another common concern about mined diamonds is surrounding human rights violations. Despite having systems in place to prevent such violations, the global mined diamond industry continues to be plagued with accusations of child labor, forced labor, and violence.
Because commercially available moissanite is created in a lab, it is without the human rights concerns that come along with natural diamonds.
So yes, moissanite IS an ethical engagement ring option!
Moissanite: An Ethical Diamond Alternative
If you are concerned about choosing an ethical stone for your engagement ring, right-hand ring, earrings, or other jewelry, moissanite is a wonderful option.
You get the sparkle (x10!), the hardness, and the longevity of a diamond but without the moral baggage. Sounds like a win-win to us!
Psst! Looking for an amazing moissanite seller? Check out DovEggs on Amazon. They sell exceptionally beautiful moissanite, and you can both gold settings and less-expensive sterling silver (heyyyy, travel ring!).
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