The Discovery and Composition of Moissanite
Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan, who found microscopic particles of the gem in a crater created by a meteorite. Initially mistaken for diamonds, these particles were later identified as silicon carbide. This rare, naturally occurring mineral is exceedingly scarce on Earth, making natural moissanite an impractical source for jewelry. Fortunately, modern technology has allowed scientists to create moissanite in laboratories, ensuring a steady and ethical supply.
Unique Properties of Moissanite
One of the most remarkable properties of moissanite is its brilliance. Measured by the refractive index, which is higher than that of diamonds, moissanite exhibits more fire and sparkle. This means that moissanite can disperse light into a rainbow of colors more effectively than diamonds, giving it a scintillating appearance.
In addition to its brilliance, moissanite is incredibly hard, scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness. While slightly less hard than diamonds, Moissanite Canada which score a perfect 10, moissanite is still highly resistant to scratching and abrasion, making it a durable choice for everyday wear.
Another notable characteristic is moissanite's thermal conductivity, which is similar to that of diamonds. This property allows moissanite to be distinguished from other diamond simulants, such as cubic zirconia, through thermal testing.
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