Introduction
Pear-shaped moissanite engagement rings offer a unique and charming choice for those looking for something distinct yet elegant. This blog post delves into the history, characteristics, advantages, and design considerations of pear-shaped moissanite, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of why it might be the perfect gemstone for your special occasion.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a rare and beautiful gemstone composed of silicon carbide. First discovered in a meteorite in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissané, it’s now primarily lab-created due to its natural rarity. Known for its exceptional fire and brilliance, moissanite outshines many other gemstones, including diamond, in terms of sparkle.
Made from silicon carbide, moissanite is a lab-created gemstone often used as a diamond alternative due to its durability and sparkling appearance. It is double refractive, meaning light which enters the stone is split into two as it refracts outwards, creating brilliance and greater ‘fire’ than a diamond.
Originally found in a meteorite, this gemstone has more fire than a diamond and is now mostly lab-grown due to its rareness, making it more affordable.
History of the Pear Cut
The pear cut, also known as the “teardrop” shape, has a rich history dating back to the 15th century, making it one of the oldest diamond cuts still in use today. It combines the best qualities of both round and marquise cuts, featuring a rounded end and a tapered point. This unique combination creates a distinctive look that’s both elegant and intriguing.
While it may look very much up-to-date, this diamond shape has origins dating to the mid-15th century in Flanders. The year was 1475, where a Flemish diamond cutter first created this distinctive shape.
Although the pear-shape would seem like a modern cut—it actually dates back to the 1400s, when Lodewyk van Berquem, a diamond cutter, developed the concept.
Interestingly, the first mention in history of a pear shape diamond is a bit hidden, as at the time, it was referred to as a heart shape. Over time, it evolved into the pear shape we know today.
The Pear diamond shape’s history can be traced back to 15th century Belgium and is closely linked to the development of diamond cutting.
Technical Characteristics of Pear-Shaped Moissanite
A well-cut pear-shaped moissanite typically has 58 facets, arranged to maximize light reflection and dispersion. The ideal pear shape has a gentle curve along its length, creating a soft, flowing outline that enhances its natural beauty. The specific proportions of the stone, including its length-to-width ratio, are crucial for optimizing its brilliance and fire.
The pear cut features a teardrop shape with one rounded end and one pointed end, typically consisting of 58 facets. The facets are arranged in a specific pattern that maximizes brilliance and fire, creating a dazzling display of light and color. A well-cut pear moissanite has a gentle curve along its length, creating a soft, flowing outline that adds to its elegant appeal.
The typical ratio is between 1.50 and 1.70 and the stone is usually comprised of 58 facets, although the number of pavilion facets may range from 4 to 8. As one of only two asymmetrical diamond shapes, the pear-cut features a tapered point on only one end and contains 58 facets.
Boasting 72 dazzling facets, pear cut moissanite is an elegant choice for your dream engagement ring. This versatile shape creates its own unique look when combined with different settings and metals.
Advantages of Pear-Shaped Moissanite
Unique Appeal
The pear shape offers a distinctive look that sets it apart from more traditional shapes, making it a memorable and personal choice. While It may look very much up-to-date, this shape has origins dating back to the 15th century, adding a touch of historical significance to modern jewelry.
Light Performance
The specific facet arrangement of the pear cut creates exceptional light return, showcasing moissanite’s natural fire and brilliance. The pear cut is known for its excellent light performance, as the elongated shape allows for maximum light reflection and sparkle.
Moissanite has more fire and brilliance than diamond – it isn’t as noticeable in smaller stones, but in stones over 5mm, it’s much more noticeable. This makes larger pear-shaped moissanite stones particularly stunning.
Finger Flattering
The pear shape’s length makes the finger appear longer and slimmer, creating a flattering effect. This is especially beneficial for those with shorter or stubbier fingers, as it creates a more elegant appearance.
Versatility
The pear shape can be worn in a variety of ways, from traditional engagement rings to pendants and other types of jewelry. Its unique shape adds a touch of sophistication to any piece of jewelry it’s part of.
Pear-Shaped Moissanite vs. Diamond: What You Need to Know
- Brilliance: Higher fire, vibrant sparkle
- Durability: 9.25 on the Mohs scale
Types of Moissanite
Moissanite is available in various color grades, ranging from colorless to near-colorless, and even in different colors like yellow, pink, and green. The most popular type for engagement rings is the colorless or near-colorless variety, as they mimic the look of diamonds.
Colorless Moissanite
This is the highest grade, with a color grade of D to F, similar to the best diamonds. It’s nearly indistinguishable from a diamond to the naked eye. Choose a colorless moissanite with top moissanite grades: D to F color, FL to VS1 clarity, and Excellent or Very Good cut for brilliance.
Near-Colorless Moissanite
This grade has a slight tint, but it’s still very appealing and less expensive than the colorless grade. It’s a great option for those who want a high-quality moissanite but on a budget.
Colored Moissanite
For those who prefer something unique, moissanite comes in various colors like champagne, blue, or green, offering a distinctive look. Moissanite is available in a variety of fancy colors. Fancy moissanite colors, such as blue, green, and yellow are created through specific processes.
Moissanite comes in various shades of grey, green, gold, brown, blue, purple, pink, and yellow.
Forever One Moissanite
This is a specific brand of moissanite known for its exceptional quality and colorless appearance. It’s often considered the premium choice for engagement rings.
Design Considerations for Engagement Rings
When designing an engagement ring with pear-shaped moissanite, several factors should be considered:
Setting Style
Prong settings are particularly effective for pear-shaped moissanite, as they allow light to enter the stone from all angles, enhancing its brilliance. The setting should protect the pointed end of the pear shape and showcase the stone’s natural beauty.
The standard pear shape has 58 facets. In contrast to the more traditional cuts, the pear and oval brilliant cuts are identical in terms of facet count.
Accent Stones
Smaller diamonds or moissanites can be placed strategically to enhance the pear’s natural curves and add to the overall beauty of the piece. For example, a beautiful dual emerald and pear shaped moissanites, set with a super delicate and thin setting, creates a unique and delicate design.
Ring Shank
The shape of the ring shank can be designed to complement the pear shape, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design. A beautiful example is a pear shape moissanite center-stone with a fully encrusted pave diamond basket and a cathedral style band, creating a handmade engagement ring design.
How to Choose the Right Pear-Shaped Moissanite Engagement Ring
When selecting a pear-shaped moissanite engagement ring, consider the following factors:
Size
The size of the moissanite stone should complement the wearer’s finger size. A general rule is that larger stones look better on larger hands, but this can vary based on personal preference. Pear-shaped and oval-shaped diamonds add a touch of softness and graceful curves, while the round-cut diamond remains a classic choice.
Quality
Look for moissanite with good color, clarity, and cut. A well-cut stone will have optimal light performance, enhancing its beauty. The preferred length to width ratio of is between 1.
Setting
The setting should protect the pointed end of the pear shape and showcase the stone’s natural beauty. Prong settings are popular for this purpose. Since then, celebrities, including Paris Hilton, Victoria Beckham, and most recently, Adele, have championed pear-shaped gems.
Metal Type
Choose a metal that complements the color of the moissanite. White gold or platinum works well with colorless moissanite, while yellow gold can add a warm touch to colored moissanite.
Comparison with Other Gemstones
While moissanite is often compared to diamond, it has its own unique characteristics that make it a compelling choice:
Fire and Brilliance
Moissanite has more fire than diamond, meaning it disperses light into a spectrum of colors more effectively. This creates a dazzling display of colors when the stone is moved under light.
Pear-shaped moissanite tends to have more rainbow-like flashes of light than diamond, which can appear more white or colorless.
Durability
With a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is very durable and suitable for everyday wear. On the Mohs scale of hardness, moissanite stone is rated at 9.25, which is higher than any gemstone used in jewellery other than diamonds.
Affordability
Moissanite is significantly less expensive than diamond of comparable size and quality, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. Diamondrensu’s moissanite vs. diamond size chart helps understand the difference in their weights. Compare and choose between Moissanite and Diamond.
Sustainability
Lab-created moissanite is an ethical choice, as it doesn’t involve mining and has a lower environmental impact.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your pear-shaped moissanite engagement ring looking its best:
Cleaning
Clean it regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and oils. This will help maintain the stone’s brilliance and fire.
Protection
Avoid activities that could subject the ring to heavy impact or abrasion, especially those that could damage the pointed end of the stone. Pear cut diamonds are more prone to damage thanks to their pointed tip. They can get chipped much easier than round or oval cut diamonds. However, a well-made setting with a claw prong or v-shape prong at the tip will mitigate this risk.
Inspection
Have the ring professionally inspected every 6-12 months to ensure the setting is secure and make any necessary adjustments. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and professional inspections every 6-12 months are recommended to ensure the setting remains secure.
Current Trends in Engagement Rings
Pear-shaped stones have been popular among celebrities and royals for their unique and elegant look. While specific celebrities may not have pear-shaped moissanite rings, many have opted for pear-shaped diamonds, which can inspire your choice.
Paris Hilton, Victoria Beckham, and Adele have championed pear-shaped gems, showing that this shape continues to be a popular choice among the fashion-forward.
Additionally, the trend towards more personalized and unique engagement rings continues to grow, making pear-shaped moissanite a perfect fit for those looking for something distinct.
Conclusion
Pear-shaped moissanite engagement rings are a stunning choice for those who appreciate uniqueness and elegance. With their rich history, exceptional light performance, and versatile design options, they offer a perfect blend of tradition and modern style.
Whether you’re looking for a colorless or colored moissanite, the pear shape is sure to make a lasting impression. Its unique appeal, combined with the natural fire and brilliance of moissanite, makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a distinctive engagement ring.
From historical significance to modern design trends, pear-shaped moissanite continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts with its timeless beauty and unique character. By understanding its history, characteristics, and advantages, you can make an informed decision when choosing this elegant gemstone for your special occasion.