What are moissanites? Definition of a diamond simulant and how it differs from lab grown and natural diamonds

Moissanites - What is a Diamond Simulant?

To simulate means to imitate and we only imitate the very best. Using the latest technology in a lab-controlled environment we are able to create gemstones that share very similar visual characteristics to a naturally mined diamond, albeit not sharing the same chemical properties. A diamond simulant is therefore defined as a gemstone that looks like a diamond but does not share the same material composition as a natural diamond. The diamond simulant Harper Jewellery currently carry are Moissanites.

Durability and Composition

Diamonds are a solid form of pure carbon arranged in a crystalline structure and are the only gems made up of a single element giving them an unmatched Moh hardness score of 10. Lab-grown diamonds are created from tiny carbon seeds of pre-existing diamonds and therefore also consist of carbon atoms giving them similar hardness and durability to a naturally mined diamond. On the other hand, a Moissanite which is made up of the mineral silicon carbide, has a 9.25 Mohs hardness score which is very close to a natural diamond.

Optical Characteristics

A refractive index is a measure of how much a material bends light as it reflects off that material. The higher the number the more sparkle and brilliance is created. A diamond’s refractive index ranges from 2.417 - 2.419. Because lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically and optically identical to naturally mined diamonds, they also have a refractive index range from 2.417 - 2.419.

Moissanite’s refractive index is higher than that of natural / lab grown diamond at 2.64 - 2.69, giving it a more brilliant “rainbow” sparkle.

Our Moissanites

At Harper Jewellery we believe in affordable diamond alternatives without compromising on excellence and we want our customers to be thrilled by the quality and price of our product. By sourcing from the very best labs in the world that apply the latest technology in diamond simulants and partnering with master artisans that are experts in their craft we are confident that our moissanites are the most economical alternative to naturally mined diamonds.