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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is moissanite a type of diamond or a diamond fake/simulant?
    Absolutely not. Moissanite is not a diamond, nor is it a diamond ‘fake’. Moissanite is a unique gemstone in itself. Both moissanite and diamond have similar visual attributes in that they are both shiny, clear stones however Moissanites have their own set of chemical and optical properties. Moissanites exhibit more fire and brilliance than any other gemstone in the world. With that said, because the two do share similar physical features, it would be very difficult to tell the difference between the two gemstones with the naked eye unless you were a trained professional with many years experience.
  • How is a moissanite different from a cubic zirconia?
    Cubic zirconias (CZs) are often used as a diamond simulant, however they are easily scratched/chipped, do not exhibit the same level of sparkle as moissanites, and will dull over time. CZs are not suitable for lifelong jewellery.
  • How will my moissanite change over time in regards to colour/sparkle/scratches?
    Highly unlikely. Moissanites do not change colour at all. Colour would only change temporarily if exposed to extreme heat from a torch such as during a jewelry repair process, however this would not be permanent. In addition, with a refractive index (RI) defining a gem’s fire and brilliance, moissanites are rated a 2.65-2.69, whereas diamonds are rated 2.42. Moissanites will have incredible sparkle forever. And finally, in regards to scratches, moissanite is the 2nd most durable gemstone in the world (more durable than sapphires, morganites, rubies, topaz, quartz etc.) and are highly durable and tough - a perfect choice for everyday wear. It can only be scratched by a diamond or another moissanite. As with any other fine jewellery, however, it is suggested not to wear your pieces during any vigorous or stressful activity that may harm the stone or setting.
  • Are moissanites natural?
    Yes. Moissanites were originally discovered in 1893 from a crater created by a meteorite that fell to Earth in Arizona. These crystals made of the compound silicone carbide, however, are so extremely rare (much rarer than diamond), it is impossible to produce jewellery from naturally occurring moissanite. After many years of trial and error, science has given us the ability to recreate moissanite (in its exact same natural chemical composition) in a lab for us to enjoy as jewellery.
  • Will my moissanite ‘pass’ as a diamond?
    If you want it to. When tested on most diamond testers using thermal measurements, moissanites do in fact give a positive read as a diamond due to the two gemstones having similar heat conducting attributes. If an individual is purchasing a moissanite stone instead of a diamond solely because it is the more economical route, it certainly can ‘pass’ as a diamond to the majority of people (as even many jewellers cannot tell the difference themselves). The Moissy Box hopes that with time, however, and as it becomes more common to purchase rings that are made of other diamond alternatives, the common consumer will not feel the need to hide behind the ‘diamond’ label and be proud in their purchase of a stone that will not put them in debt, friendly to the environment, conflict-free, and with more shine and sparkle than any other stone on earth.
  • Do moissanites come in different colours/shapes?
    Absolutely. Currently, we are able to obtain moissanites in their naturally occurring shades of pale and vivid yellow, green/blue, light and dark blue, light and dark green, champagne, light and dark brown, blue/black, light and dark grey, and opaque black. The stones can be cut into any shape or style you desire – princess, cushion, marquise, European cut, hearts and arrows, jubilee, etc.
  • Are moissanite cut by machines?
    No. Moissanites are all hand cut by precise and professional gem cutters with many years of experience to ensure each stone reaches its capacity to exhibit as much fire and brilliance as possible. Due to the attention and care required to cut our moissanites, it is understandable that most of our pieces will take anywhere on average between 2-4 weeks to create.
  • Why are moissanite stones referred in mm (millimetres) as opposed to carats?
    Carat is usually used to refer to a diamond’s weight. Moissanites are approx. 15-18% lighter than diamonds. A 6.5mm round diamond will weigh 1 carat vs a 6.5mm round moissanite will weigh 0.83-0.85 carat. There is a difference in weight, however they will be the same physical size. To minimize any confusion, the stones listed on the site have the mm measurement and the DEW (Diamond Equivalent Weight).
  • How are moissanites graded?
    Moissanites are graded similarly to diamonds in that they have their 4 C’s – Cut, Colour, Carat, and Clarity, however due to the fact that moissanites used for jewellery are lab created (and thus better controlled for particular physical properties), the clarity is eye clean (VS1 minimum) and the colour generally completely colourless (EF grading) or near colourless (GH grading).
  • How do I clean my moissanite jewellery?
    No special cleaners are required. Similar to most fine jewellery, warm water, mild liquid dishwashing detergent, and a soft toothbrush generally do the trick. It is not recommended to use other unapproved jewellery cleaners or harsh chemicals as it may react poorly to your jewellery setting.
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