Introduction to Moissanite
Moissanite is a synthetic gemstone composed of silicon carbide, often referred to as the “gemstone from the stars.” Discovered initially in a meteorite, it’s now predominantly lab-grown due to its rarity. What makes moissanite particularly appealing as a diamond alternative is its exceptional brilliance and fire. With a refractive index of 2.65-2.69, which is higher than diamond’s 2.42, moissanite has more intense sparkle. Additionally, it disperses over two times the colored sparkle (“fire”) than diamond, ruby, emerald, or sapphire.
In terms of physical properties, moissanite has an extremely high hardness, with a Mohs hardness of 9.25, ensuring durability and resistance to scratching and wearing. Its density ranges from 2.65 to 2.69 g/cm³, further emphasizing its exceptional quality. This combination of properties makes moissanite not only a beautiful gemstone but also a durable one, suitable for everyday wear.
Unlike natural diamonds, which are formed over millions of years under extreme pressure and heat deep within the Earth, moissanite is created in a laboratory setting. This process allows for greater consistency in quality and color, and significantly lower prices compared to natural diamonds. A diamond that might cost $5,000 for a 1-carat stone could be replaced with a similar-sized moissanite for a fraction of the price. This affordability, combined with its stunning optical properties, has made moissanite a popular choice among jewelry enthusiasts.
The history of moissanite dates back to 1893 when it was first discovered by French chemist Henri Moissan in the Meteor Crater in Arizona. Initially thought to be diamond, it was later identified as a new mineral. The gemstone takes its name from its discoverer, Henri Moissan, and was first named “carbide of silicon” before being officially designated as “moissanite” in 1905. While natural moissanite is extremely rare and found primarily in meteorites, almost all of the moissanite available today is laboratory-grown.
The process of creating lab-grown moissanite involves a high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) process, where silicon and carbon are combined under extreme conditions to form the crystal structure characteristic of moissanite. This controlled environment allows for the production of gem-quality crystals with consistent properties.
Understanding the Asscher Cut
The Asscher cut is a specific type of step cut for a gemstone. It ’s a square or rectangular cut with cropped corners, creating an octagonal shape. Unlike the square shape princess cut diamond, Asscher diamonds feature large step facets. From the top view, an Asscher cut diamond has an X pattern with long facets coming from the corners to the center. This distinctive facet pattern gives the Asscher cut its unique optical properties and aesthetic appeal.
The Asscher cut is often referred to as the “square emerald cut” because it’s essentially an emerald cut that’s been adapted to a square shape rather than a rectangular one. This cut was developed by Joseph Asscher, a famous diamond cutter from Amsterdam, in the early 20th century, and it quickly became popular for its classic, Art Deco aesthetic.
What makes the Asscher cut particularly special is its ability to maximize the brilliance and fire of the gemstone while maintaining a sophisticated, elegant look. The step facets create a series of small, bright reflections that dance across the surface of the stone, creating a mesmerizing effect. The cropped corners add to its uniqueness, making it stand out from other square-cut stones.
In terms of optical properties, the Asscher cut, being a step cut, may not produce as much brilliance and scintillation as some other cuts like the round brilliant cut. However, it excels in creating a striking visual effect with its large step facets and distinctive X pattern. This makes it particularly well-suited for gemstones like moissanite, which have high refractive indices and dispersion.
Asscher Cut Moissanite: A Unique Combination
When moissanite is cut in an Asscher shape, it combines the best of both worlds – the elegance of the step cut and the brilliance of moissanite. The Asscher cut enhances the natural brilliance of moissanite, creating a striking visual effect with its large step facets and distinctive X pattern.
One of the most notable advantages of Asscher cut moissanite is its affordability. For the price of a one-carat diamond, which might cost around $3,000, you could purchase a moissanite stone that appears larger and more brilliant. This makes Asscher cut moissanite an excellent choice for those who want a visually impressive center stone without the high price tag of a diamond.
Another advantage is the availability of colorless options. While natural diamonds with no color are rare and expensive, colorless moissanite is widely available and more affordable. This allows for a bright, sparkly look that mimics the appearance of high-quality diamonds.
The unique combination of moissanite’s optical properties and the Asscher cut’s design creates a gemstone that is both beautiful and budget-friendly. The step facets of the Asscher cut are particularly effective in highlighting moissanite’s high refractive index and dispersion, creating a stone that seems to come alive with light.
Moreover, since moissanite is lab-grown, it can be produced in consistent sizes and colors, ensuring that each piece meets high standards of quality. This consistency is a significant advantage over natural diamonds, where each stone is unique and can vary greatly in color and clarity.
Selecting the Perfect Asscher Cut Moissanite Piece
When choosing an Asscher cut moissanite, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best possible piece:
Size and Proportions
Asscher cut moissanite typically comes in square shapes, with sizes ranging from 5.50mm (1.00ct) to 7mm (1.75ct) and beyond:
- 6 x 6mm Asscher: Approx. 1.00ct (diamond equivalent weight)
- 6.5 x 6.5mm Asscher: Approx. 1.30ct (diamond equivalent weight)
- 7 x 7mm Asscher: Approx. 1.75ct
It’s important to note that moissanite’s density is lower than that of diamond, meaning a 1-carat moissanite stone will be larger in physical size than a 1-carat diamond. This means that for the same price, you can have a moissanite stone that appears larger, providing even more value for money.
Color
Most Asscher cut moissanite available today is premium colorless, providing a bright, white appearance that mimics high-quality diamonds. This makes them particularly appealing for those who prefer the classic, traditional look of a diamond.
The color grading for moissanite is similar to that for diamonds, with grades ranging from D (colorless) to N (yellow). For the most diamond-like appearance, look for moissanite with color grades D, E, or F, which are considered to be in the colorless range.
Clarity
Moissanite is known for its clarity, with options available in VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) clarity. This means that any inclusions are extremely difficult to see even under magnification, providing a clean, brilliant appearance.
The clarity grading for moissanite typically follows the same system as for diamonds, with grades ranging from FL (Flawless) to I (Included). The most common clarity grades found in moissanite jewelry are VVS and VS.
Cut
The cut of a moissanite stone is crucial for maximizing its brilliance and fire. For Asscher cut moissanite, look for stones that have been cut to exact proportions to ensure optimal light performance.
The cut grading for moissanite typically includes five levels: Excellent (EX), Very Good (VG), Good (G), Fair (F), and Poor (P). High-quality Asscher cut moissanite should have a cut grade of at least Very Good to ensure it has the best possible optical performance.
Setting
Asscher cut moissanite engagement rings come in a variety of settings, including solitaire, halo, and three-stone designs. The setting can significantly impact the overall look and price of the ring.
Solitaire settings allow the moissanite to be the focal point, showcasing its beauty and brilliance. Halo settings surround the center stone with smaller diamonds or moissanite stones, creating a dazzling effect. Three-stone settings feature the Asscher cut moissanite as the center stone, with two smaller stones on either side, often in a complementary cut like round or pear shape.
Metal Options
Most retailers offer Asscher cut moissanite engagement rings in a variety of metals, including white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. Some also offer eco-friendly options made from recycled gold.
The choice of metal can affect the overall appearance of the ring. White gold and platinum provide a sleek, modern look that complements the brilliance of the moissanite. Yellow gold and rose gold add a touch of warmth and can create a more vintage or romantic look.
Caring for Your Asscher Cut Moissanite
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of your Asscher cut moissanite piece. Here are some tips for caring for your jewelry:
Cleaning
To clean your moissanite jewelry, start by preparing a small bowl of warm soapy water. Use a mild liquid detergent that does not contain harsh chemicals. Gently scrub the piece with a soft toothbrush or cloth, paying special attention to cleaning between the facets and other hard-to-reach areas.
For a deeper clean, you may want to have your piece professionally cleaned by a jeweler. However, it’s important to inform the jeweler that your piece contains moissanite before having any professional services performed, as some cleaning methods or chemicals may not be suitable for moissanite.
Storage
When not wearing your moissanite jewelry, store it in a soft cloth or a jewelry box with compartments to prevent scratching. Moissanite, while highly durable, can still be scratched by other gemstones or metals, so it’s important to keep it separate from other pieces of jewelry.
Handling
Be careful with accidental bumps and knocks. These mishaps may dislodge your Moissanite gem and cause dents or scratches. When handling your moissanite jewelry, do so with care to avoid any contact with hard surfaces or other jewelry pieces.
Professional Services
Avoid having your moissanite piece treated with chemicals or high heat, as this could damage the setting or the stone itself. Always inform your jeweler that your piece contains moissanite before having any professional services performed.
The Market and Future of Asscher Cut Moissanite
The market for moissanite jewelry, including Asscher cut moissanite, has been growing steadily in recent years. With advancements in technology and increasing consumer awareness, more people are discovering the beauty and affordability of moissanite.
According to market reports, the global moissanite market size was valued at USD 148,274,000 in 2024 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.51% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing demand for affordable luxury jewelry and the rising popularity of unique and unconventional gemstones.
In terms of types, the moissanite jewelry market can be segmented into various categories, including rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pendants. The demand for Asscher cut moissanite, particularly in engagement rings and necklaces, has been on the rise as consumers look for distinctive pieces that stand out.
One of the key trends in the moissanite market is the growing preference for lab-grown gemstones over natural ones, driven by ethical considerations and sustainability. Moissanite, being lab-grown, offers a more environmentally friendly and ethical alternative to natural diamonds, which are often associated with mining issues.
Looking to the future, the moissanite market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, with innovations in cutting techniques and new applications for moissanite in different types of jewelry. The development of new cutting styles, including the Asscher cut, will likely play a significant role in this growth, as consumers seek unique and elegant pieces that make a statement.
Conclusion
The Asscher Cut Moissanite represents the perfect blend of classic elegance and modern brilliance. Its square shape with cropped corners and large step facets creates a sophisticated look that complements a variety of settings and metals. With its high refractive index and dispersion, moissanite provides exceptional sparkle and fire, making it an excellent alternative to diamond.
For those who appreciate the timeless appeal of the Asscher Cut but want a more affordable option than diamond, Asscher Cut Moissanite is a fantastic choice. It offers the same elegant appearance at a fraction of the cost, allowing you to enjoy a larger, more impressive stone or to allocate your budget to other aspects of the jewelry design.
With proper care, your Asscher Cut Moissanite piece will remain beautiful for years to come, providing you with a stunning and affordable statement of style and sophistication. Whether you’re looking for an engagement ring, a pendant, or earrings, Asscher cut moissanite offers a unique combination of beauty, affordability, and durability that makes it a standout choice in the world of jewelry.