Introduction

Moissanite is a gemstone of extraordinary origins and remarkable properties. This silicon carbide gemstone, with its dazzling brilliance and fiery glow, has captured the attention of jewelry enthusiasts worldwide. What makes moissanite particularly intriguing is its journey - from cosmic formation to laboratory creation, and finally to its place in modern jewelry collections. This blog post explores the complete history of moissanite, from its extraterrestrial beginnings to its current status as a popular alternative to diamonds.

The Cosmic Origins of Moissanite

Discovery in Meteorite Fragments

Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 by Nobel Prize-winning French chemist Dr. Henri Moissan. His discovery came while studying fragments of a meteorite found in Canyon Diablo, Arizona. This meteorite, known as the Canyon Diablo meteorite, was an iron meteorite that created the famous Meteor Crater in northern Arizona.

The Canyon Diablo meteorite arrived on Earth approximately 49,000 years ago when an asteroid plunged into North Central Arizona, forming what is now known as Meteor Crater. The resulting crater is 3,400 feet across, about 600 feet from rim to floor, with a rim that rises 200 feet above the plain.

The Meteorite’s Impact

The Canyon Diablo meteorite weighed an estimated 270-330 million pounds and created a crater 1.3 km in diameter and 175 meters deep. The force of the impact was so violent that it melted the surrounding sand into glass. This violent formation process helped create the conditions necessary for moissanite formation.

Tens of thousands of Canyon Diablo meteorite fragments were found at Meteor Crater - most were much smaller than the notable 200-kilogram (440-pound) sample.

From Rare Natural Gem to Common Lab Creation

Natural Moissanite Rarity

Natural moissanite is one of the rarest minerals found in nature. It typically occurs only in certain types of meteorites and in very small quantities. Because of its rarity and the small size of naturally occurring specimens, natural moissanite has rarely been used in jewelry.

The Rise of Lab-Created Moissanite

The story of commercial moissanite really begins in the 1990s when jewelry pioneers Charles & Colvard perfected the process of lab-grown moissanite, making gem-quality stones widely accessible for the first time.

Charles & Colvard has become synonymous with high-quality moissanite. Their proprietary technology and innovation yield the finest quality moissanite in the market, backed by GIA experts and an unrivaled warranty. The company redefines luxury by prioritizing responsible sourcing and using lab-grown diamonds, moissanite, lab-created precious gemstones, and recycled metals.

The Process of Lab-Created Moissanite

How Moissanite is Synthesized

In laboratory settings, silicon carbide crystals are synthesized to produce moissanite gemstones. The process involves replicating the high-pressure, high-temperature conditions that occur in nature to grow the crystals.

The production of lab-created moissanite typically involves a method known as the high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) process. In this process, silicon carbide is subjected to extreme heat and pressure, similar to the conditions found in the Earth’s mantle. This allows the silicon carbide to crystallize and form the moissanite gemstones we see in jewelry. The process can take up to two months for the crystals to grow to a usable size.

Properties That Make Moissanite Unique

Optical Properties

Moissanite has several optical properties that make it stand out from other gemstones:

1. Higher Refractive Index: Moissanite has a higher refractive index compared to diamond, which gives it more brilliance and fire.
2. More Fire and Brilliance: Moissanite has more fire (the dispersion of light into colors) than a diamond, which gives it a rainbow-like effect when moved under light.
3. Double Refraction: Moissanite exhibits double refraction, a property where light entering the stone splits into two rays. This gives it a different appearance when viewed from different angles.

Physical Properties

Moissanite also has impressive physical properties:

1. Hardness: With a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is very durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear.
2. Durability: Moissanite is a very durable option for an engagement ring stone, especially since the material doesn’t scratch easily.
3. Color: Lab-created moissanite is typically colorless or has a very slight tint that doesn’t affect its appeal. Modern cut moissanite is all colorless, meaning it will be bright white.

Growing Popularity in the Market

Reasons for Popularity

Moissanite has become increasingly popular in recent years for several compelling reasons:

1. Affordability: Compared to diamonds, moissanite is much more affordable, making it an attractive option for those who want a diamond-like stone without the high cost.
2. Sustainability: Since lab-created moissanite is grown in a laboratory rather than mined from the Earth, it’s considered a more sustainable and ethical choice. Lab-grown diamonds or moissanites are preferred choices primarily for being sustainable and conflict-free.
3. Unique Appearance: Its high brilliance and fire make it stand out from other gemstones, giving it a unique and eye-catching appearance.
4. Durability: Moissanite is not only gorgeous and inexpensive but also very durable. It is a much superior choice for wedding rings because it lasts longer.

Current Trends

In 2025, moissanite continues to shine as a top choice for those seeking stunning, ethical, and affordable alternatives to traditional diamonds.

One of the standout trends for 2025 is the rise of the “Halo Moissanite.” This stunning design features a central moissanite stone surrounded by smaller diamonds or moissanites.

Another popular trend is the shimmering solitaire, which features a single, stunning moissanite gemstone that takes center stage.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance

Beyond its physical properties, moissanite has gained a reputation for its spiritual benefits:

Moissanite opens your heart to unconditional love and compassion. It encourages you to give and receive love freely, without fear or judgment.

It is also believed to possess properties like attracting positive energy, warding off negative vibrations, enhancing spirituality, and instilling inner strength.

Conclusion

The history of moissanite is a fascinating journey from cosmic formation to laboratory creation, and finally to its place in modern jewelry. From its discovery in a meteorite fragment by Henri Moissan in 1893 to its current status as a popular alternative to diamonds, moissanite has come a long way.

What started as an extremely rare natural mineral found only in meteorites has become a widely available gemstone thanks to advancements in laboratory synthesis. The work of companies like Charles & Colvard has made it possible for anyone to own this beautiful gemstone without the high cost and ethical concerns associated with natural diamonds.

Moissanite’s unique optical properties - its high refractive index, impressive fire, and double refraction - give it a distinct appearance that many find more appealing than that of a diamond. Its durability, affordability, and ethical production make it an attractive choice for consumers looking for an alternative to traditional diamonds.

As technology continues to advance and consumer preferences shift toward more sustainable and ethical jewelry options, moissanite is well-positioned to maintain its growing popularity in the market. Whether you’re drawn to its cosmic origins, its dazzling appearance, or its ethical production, moissanite offers a unique and compelling alternative to traditional gemstones.