Moissanite engagement rings are a great choice for couples on a budget who cannot afford a genuine diamond engagement ring. To put it in the simplest terms possible, moissanite is not a fake diamond but something (a mineral actually) which looks very like a real diamond. It would take a person who really knows something about moissanite to actually tell the difference, even many jewlers have known to have trouble differing them from one another.
What Exactly is Moissanite?
Mossanite, contrary to what some might believe, is actually a very rare mineral with a hexagonal crystal structure which occurs naturally. It is a actually quite interesting how it was discovered: In a meteor in 1893 by Nobel prize winner Henri Mossan (where it gets its name). However it was not until years later that Mossanite crystals could be grown to the size that you seem them on Jewelry today. Before that they were just to small to be used. Now however they look like big diamonds.
Are Moissanite Engagement Rings Right for Me?
So what would be the advantages of purchasing a Moissanite Engagement ring over lets say vintage diamond engagement rings? Well the biggest reason people choose Moissanite is because of the cost, which can be half or less than the cost of purchasing a diamond one. But Moissanite has some other features which also make it valuable. It is more durable and just as hard as a diamond and it has a higher refractive quality, which means it shines brighter.
However there are drawbacks too. If you are really looking for the cheapest alternative then cubic zirconia engagement rings are probably a better choice, simply because the are cheaper. Some Moissanite stones can give off a slightly green or gray color, make sure you have a good return policy just in case. The principal drawback of buying Moissanite engagement rings has to be their reputation in some circles as knock-off diamonds or fake diamonds, although this is definitely not true, it can affect how people view them.
Where can I buy Moissanite?
Moissanite is now quite a popular commodity and you should not have any problems finding it in jewelers locally or online. For a good list of online jewelers which have it visit mossanite.com