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A lot of people underestimate the true value of a moissanite by calling it a “fake diamond”. What many do not know is that it is in itself a genuine gemstone. Moissanite got this “fake diamond” reputation because like diamonds, it is thermally conductive. Unfortunately, this test is widely used by jewelers to test the authenticity of a diamond.
For engagement rings, Moissanite is nearly as hard as a diamond and can display the same brilliance. It can also be cut in shapes and settings like diamonds. For this reason alone, Moissanite is already cutting itself a wide share of the market. For larger stones, it may exhibit faint green, gray, or yellow tints as compared to the diamond which is colorless. Another difference, which is actually more of a bonus than a drawback, a Moissanite’s hexagonal crystal structure is almost twice as refractive, giving it double the brilliance of a diamond.
Many people expect the moissanite to be a lot cheaper than a diamond because of its “fake” reputation. However, it is only slightly cheaper than a diamond because its growing process is so difficult and it has the rare distinction of originating in the stars.
| Also rapidly increasing in popularity as a great engagement ring alternative are the colored gemstones. Topping this “alternative list” is aquamarine, a unique blue-hued stone that is a stunning, lighter alternative to darker sapphires.
Some brides actually prefer their engagement rings to be gemstones – patterned after their birthstones. Popular choices include amethyst, opal, garnet, smoky quartz, peridot, topaz, and citrine.
To insure you select a quality piece, you should thoroughly examine its carat weight, color purity, clarity, and cut intrciacy. Also remember to ask for the stone’s certification and other relevant documentation. Not all natural or genuine gemstones are valuable. Some are even considered mining castaways. Be sure to research on a particular stone and get the facts straight before making a rather pricey purchase.
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