The Perfect Faux Diamond: Moissanite

Moissanite is a gemstone that closely resembles a diamond in appearance and properties. It was originally discovered in a meteor crater by French chemist Henri Moissan in 1893. Moissanite is composed of silicon carbide and is known for its brilliance, fire, and hardness, making it a popular alternative to diamonds in jewelry. It's also more affordable and has a unique sparkle that some people prefer over diamonds.

Moissanite is generally considered more ethically obtained than diamonds. This is because most moissanite used in jewelry is lab-grown, which eliminates the environmental and ethical concerns associated with diamond mining. Lab-grown moissanite does not involve the destructive mining practices that can lead to soil erosion, deforestation, and water pollution, nor does it contribute to conflict or human rights abuses.

Natural moissanite is extremely rare and is typically found in meteorite craters and as inclusions in other minerals. However, the moissanite used in jewelry is almost exclusively lab-created, ensuring a more sustainable and ethical option.

If you're looking for an eco-friendly and conflict-free gemstone, moissanite is a fantastic choice.