Moissanite, a dazzling gemstone known for its brilliance and affordability, has gained immense popularity as an alternative to traditional diamonds. As with any gemstone, Moissanite has its fair share of challenges. In this article, we will explore the top 6 Moissanite problems you should know to help you make an informed decision when choosing this gem.
1. Differences in Brilliance
Right, first off, let’s talk about the sparkle. Moissanite, well, it’s got this one-of-a-kind brilliance that can really steal the show. Folks often liken it to a ‘disco ball’ effect, with a dance of colors that can leave you dazzled. This flashy display is all thanks to its sky-high refractive index, tossing light this way and that like a pro juggler. But, you know what they say about too much of a good thing? It can sometimes be a downer. Compared to the gentle whisper of a diamond’s shimmer, Moissanite belts out a loud, rainbow-hued song that’s a different tune altogether. And for those on the hunt for that classic, diamond-like twinkle, Moissanite’s flamboyant show might seem a bit off-key.
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2. Not as Hard as Diamonds
Now, on to durability. Moissanite’s got a decent set of chops – scoring a not-too-shabby 9.25 on the hardness scale. But when you’re in a head-to-head with diamonds, even the slightest shortcoming is glaring. Diamonds, the tough guys in the gem world, boast an unbeatable 10, meaning that Moissanite can be a tad more susceptible to scratches as the years roll by. But don’t let that get you down. With a little TLC and a regular tune-up, you can keep your Moissanite sparkling like new.
3. Lower Resale Value
Another consideration is that Moissanite tends to have a lower resale value compared to natural diamonds. Diamonds have been the poster child of luxury and sound investment for donkey’s years, and their value’s got a reputation for standing up to the test of time. Moissanite, on the flip side, is a newbie on the block. It’s only been around for a hot minute, and while it sure does have a certain allure, it’s not got the same long-haul value appeal for the savvy buyer.
4. Not a Natural Gemstone
You see, moissanite – it’s got this dazzling allure that can knock your socks off. But, hey, let’s not forget there’s a tribe of die-hard purists out there, and they’d take a step back from anything less than the real McCoy. Yep, they’ve got a soft spot for natural gemstones – each with its own unique tale, spun over millennia in the earth’s secret chambers. For them, it’s the story behind the sparkle that truly counts.
Now, no one’s denying it’s a sight for sore eyes, but it doesn’t quite hold a candle to natural diamonds or other gemstones when it comes to that old-world, romantic lure.
5. Limited Availability in Physical Stores
Alright, here’s the rub. Despite Moissanite becoming quite the belle of the ball lately, you might have to go on a bit of a treasure hunt to find it in your local brick-and-mortar jewelry stores. Diamonds, on the other hand, are as common as muck in these places. Now, the world wide web, that’s a different kettle of fish. Online, you’ll find Moissanite galore, enough to tickle anyone’s fancy.
But, let’s be honest, nothing quite compares to that old-school, touch-and-feel shopping experience. Some folks want to lay their eyes on the real deal, hold it in their hands, let it catch the light – you know, get a proper gander before they shell out their hard-earned dough. And for them, Moissanite’s limited physical store availability might just rain on their parade.
6. Color Variations
Alright, let’s delve deeper into color variations. Moissanite, it’s got this eye-catching sparkle that can turn heads. But hey, every now and then, it might throw you for a loop by flaunting a bit of a yellow or green tint. Maybe that’s not really your thing. Perhaps you’re a fan of the clean, crisp sparkle that you typically see in a diamond. Well, you’re in luck. With tech getting smarter by the minute, we’re now seeing a slew of more colorless and near-colorless options popping up to cater to all sorts of tastes.
Misconceptions about Moissanite
Let’s clear the air regarding Moissanite, there seem to be a few misunderstandings bouncing around that need addressing:
Diamond Doppelganger? No Way, Jose!
While at a casual glance, one might mistake moissanite for its sparkly cousin, the diamond, it’s not an ‘imitation’ but rather a gemstone in its own right. A little less Elvis impersonator, a little more Freddie Mercury, moissanite has its own distinctive twinkle and charm, and should be appreciated for its unique attributes rather than being labeled a mere ‘diamond wannabe’.
Quality and Value – You Bet!
Don’t let the reasonable price tag of moissanite fool you into thinking it’s cheap and nasty. Far from it! This lab-grown wonder is painstakingly crafted to ensure a consistent sparkle that would make a disco ball jealous. So, don’t get it twisted – the affordability of moissanite doesn’t mean you’re skimping on quality. It’s like finding a designer dress in the sale rack, it’s a win-win!
Maintenance of Moissanite Jewelry
Keeping your moissanite bling in tip-top shape isn’t rocket science. Here’s the lowdown:
Soap and Water – Your Best Friends
Regular cleanups with a little mild soap and warm water will keep your jewelry sparkling. Use a soft brush to gently whisk away any dust or grime. And remember, no harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, or you might end up crying over spilled milk, or rather, damaged gemstones!
Safe and Sound Storage
When you’re not flaunting your moissanite jewelry, wrap it up nicely in a soft cloth or pouch. This helps avoid those pesky scratches and keeps your gem away from harsh sunlight or crazy temperatures.
Conclusion
In the grand scheme of things, moissanite offers a spectacular bang for your buck. It dazzles like a diamond, is kinder to Mother Earth, and leaves you with some extra change for a rainy day. Sure, it’s got a few downsides – color preference issues, durability doubts, and that whole ‘diamond imposter’ label – but hey, nothing’s perfect! What’s important is understanding the pros and cons and then deciding what’s best for you. After all, one man’s meat can be another man’s poison.