Moissanite and Lab-Grown Diamonds: Affordable and Durable Alternatives to Natural Diamonds
Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are typically more affordable than natural diamonds. This is because natural diamonds are becoming increasingly rare and require a labour-intensive mining process. Moissanite and lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are more affordable to produce. As a result, lab-grown diamonds can be up to 70% cheaper than natural diamonds, and moissanite is even less expensive.
Meanwhile, moissanite and lab-grown diamonds are both highly durable, with a Mohs hardness of 9.25 and 10, respectively, which is nearly identical to the Mohs hardness of 10 for natural diamonds. This means that they are all well-suited for use as raw materials for frequently worn jewellery such as wedding rings.
The Ethical and Environmental Benefits of Moissanite and Lab-Grown Diamonds
Moissanite is a more ethical and sustainable choice than natural diamonds.Â
By purchasing moissanite or lab-grown diamonds, we can reduce the demand for blood diamonds and promote a more sustainable jewellery industry.
What are blood diamonds and why are they a problem?
Blood diamonds, also known as conflict diamonds, are diamonds that are mined in war zones or areas of conflict and sold to fund armed conflicts against governments. The profits from the sale of blood diamonds have been used to finance brutal wars and conflicts, leading to the displacement of millions of people and the loss of countless lives.
Blood diamonds are a problem because they contribute to violence, human rights abuses, and environmental destruction. The mining of blood diamonds is often associated with forced labour, child soldiers, and violence against civilians. Additionally, the mining of blood diamonds can lead to deforestation and water pollution.
What are the environmental impact of diamond mining?
Diamond mining has a significant negative impact on the environment. Two of the most significant impacts are habitat destruction and air and water pollution. This is because diamond mines are often located in areas with high biodiversity, such as tropical rainforests and wetlands. When these areas are cleared for mining, the animals and plants that live there are displaced or destroyed. This can have a devastating impact on local ecosystems.
Moreover, diamond mining can pollute the air and water with dust, chemicals, and heavy metals. This pollution can harm human health and the environment. For example, dust from diamond mines can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems. Chemicals used in diamond mining can contaminate the water supply and make it unsafe to drink. Heavy metals from diamond mines can also contaminate the soil and water and can be harmful to plants and animals.
Moissanite and Lab-grown Diamonds: The Future of Jewellery
In addition to being more ethical and sustainable, moissanite is also brighter than diamonds.Â
Lab-grown diamonds are nearly identical to natural diamonds in all properties, including index of refraction, dispersion, and chemical composition. The only difference is their origin and price.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Moissanite is a gemstone made of silicon carbide. It can be found in nature and produced synthetically in a laboratory. It is a popular choice for jewellery because it is sparkling, elegant, and affordable.
Lab-grown diamonds are gemstones made of carbon and produced synthetically in a laboratory. They are a popular choice for jewellery because they are highly identical to natural diamonds and affordable.
No, moissanite is a different type of gemstone than a lab-grown diamond. Moissanite is a mineral made of silicon carbide, while lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds.
Yes, lab-created diamonds and moissanite can be worn in the shower. However, it is recommended to remove the ring before applying lotion or sunscreen to make it easier to clean.
No, moissanite is unlikely to increase in value like natural diamonds, but it is still a real and valuable investment.
