Moissanite

Moissanite is a modern gemstone admired for its exceptional brilliance and fire, often chosen as an alternative to diamond. Originally discovered in a meteorite crater by Dr. Henri Moissan, natural moissanite is extremely rare; today, nearly all moissanite on the market is lab-created, making it a popular choice for ethical and sustainability reasons. With a Mohs hardness of 9.25, moissanite is highly durable, suitable for engagement rings and daily wear. Its high refractive index makes it a highly sparkling and affordable option. 

Hardness: 9.25 (Mohs scale); very hard and suitable for all jewellery. 

Colour: Usually near-colourless to faintly tinted, with options available from D (colourless) to K (faint yellow). Some moissanites are engineered to appear even whiter than many diamonds. 

Origin: Virtually all moissanite is lab-grown for jewellery use. 

Notable Fact: Moissanite offers a sustainable, budget-friendly and visually dazzling choice for couples wanting an ethical diamond alternative.