All Things Gemstones

DISCOVER THE BRILLIANCE OF MOISSANITES

 

Moissanites were first discovered in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan.  Originally discovered in a meteorite crater, moissanite is a rare, naturally occurring mineral composed of silicon carbide. However, the majority of moissanites used in jewellery today are actually lab - grown or synthetic moissanites, ensuring ethical and eco - friendly sourcing through controlled processes that mimic conditions under which natural moissanites form. Lab - created moissanites offer an ethical and more affordable alternative to diamonds, as they exhibit similar optical and physical properties while being distinct from both diamonds and other gemstones. Moissanite, a stunning gemstone, offers a dazzling alternative to diamonds.

Clarity, Cut, Carat, and Colour of Moissanite

Clarity

 Moissanite jewellery, like diamonds, is graded for clarity to assess the presence of internal and external flaws. The clarity grades for moissanite typically include:

Flawless (FL)

No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.

Internally Flawless (IF) 

No internal inclusions, but may have minor surface blemishes visible under 10x magnification.

Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)

Inclusions are very difficult to see under 10x magnification.

Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)

Inclusions are somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification but not visible to the naked eye.

Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)

Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification and might be visible to the naked eye.

Included (I1, I2, and I3)

Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification and can affect transparency and brilliance.

Moissanite typically has excellent clarity, with minimal inclusions visible to the naked eye. Most lab - created moissanites are graded as "eye - clean," ensuring a flawless appearance. Most stones fall into the VVS1 to VS1 range, ensuring they appear clear and brilliant to the naked eye.

Cut 

The cut of moissanite enhances its exceptional brilliance and fire. Common cuts include round, princess, cushion, and oval, each designed to maximise the gemstone's sparkle and light reflection. (See below)

Carat 

Moissanite is lighter than diamond, so a one - carat moissanite is slightly larger than a one - carat diamond. It is available in various carat weights, allowing for a wide range of sizes to suit any preference and budget.

In moissanite jewellery

CCTW (Cubic Carat Total Weight)

This term refers to the total weight of all moissanite stones in the piece, measured in cubic carats. It's specific to moissanite and reflects the gemstone's density and size more accurately compared to traditional carats.

CTW (Carat Total Weight)

This term is used for the total weight of all diamonds or gemstones in the piece, measured in carats. It's a more general term and is commonly used for diamonds and other gemstones.

CCTW accounts for moissanite's unique properties, while CTW is a standard measure for traditional gemstones.

Colour

Moissanite comes in a variety of colours, though it is most commonly found in near - colourless or slightly warm tones:

Near - Colourless (D - E - F) 

High - quality moissanites are graded D, E, or F, appearing nearly colourless and comparable to top - tier diamonds.

Slightly Warm (G - H - I) 

These moissanites have a slight hint of colour, offering a warm and inviting appearance.

Fancy Colours 

Moissanite can also be found in an array of fancy colours, such as yellow, green, and blue, achieved through advanced lab processes.

This range of colorus provides flexibility in choosing a moissanite that suits personal style and preference.

Moissanites offer

Exceptional Brilliance

Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, giving it extraordinary sparkle and fire.

Durability 

With a hardness rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is very durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions.

Affordability 

Moissanite offers the appearance of a diamond at a fraction of the cost, making it a budget - friendly option.

Ethical and Sustainable 

Moissanite is lab - created, ensuring an ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds.

Clarity and Colour 

Moissanite stones are typically produced with high clarity and can come in various colours, including near - colourless options that resemble high - quality diamonds.

Heat Resistance 

Moissanite withstands high temperatures, making it suitable for all types of jewellery settings.

Lightweight 

Moissanite is lighter than diamond, making larger stones more comfortable to wear.

Hypoallergenic 

Suitable for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

Variety of Cuts and Sizes 

Available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, allowing for customised and unique jewellery designs. 

        A              B              C              D              E          

 

A - Round   B - Pear   C - Heart   D - Oval   E - Marquise 

F - Radiant   G - Asscher   H - Princess   I - Cushion   J - Emerald

 

Low Maintenance 

Requires minimal care to maintain its brilliance and lustre.

Long - lasting 

Moissanite retains its sparkle and beauty over time, offering lasting value.

Positive Social Impact 

Purchasing moissanite supports the move towards more sustainable and ethical jewellery production practices.

ZIRCON

Zircon is a naturally occurring mineral that is valued for its brilliant lustre, wide range of colours, and durability. It is often used as a gemstone in jewellery and has been admired for centuries for its beauty. Zircon should not be confused with cubic zirconia, which is a synthetic material used as a diamond simulant.

Zircon can occur in various colours, including colourless, blue, yellow, orange, brown, and even red. Blue zircon, in particular, is highly prized and is often used as a December birthstone. Zircon's high refractive index gives it a fiery sparkle that can rival that of diamonds.

Zircon holds historical and cultural significance and has been used as a protective charm and amulet in various civilisations. Today, it continues to be cherished as a captivating and radiant gemstone in jewellery designs that range from vintage to contemporary styles.

CUBIC ZIRCONIAS

Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone that gained prominence as a diamond simulant due to its brilliant sparkle and resemblance to diamonds. It is composed of zirconium dioxide in crystal form and is created in laboratories under controlled conditions. CZ's affordability and visual similarity to diamonds have made it a popular choice for jewellery, particularly as a more budget-friendly alternative to natural diamonds. Cubic zirconia is a widely used and recognisable gemstone in the world of jewellery design because of its brilliant lustre and affordability.

The six categories used to describe the quality of cubic zirconia are: AAAAA (the highest quality), AAAA, AAA, AA, A and AB (the lowest quality). The highest quality stones are hard and clear, while the lowest quality stones are cloudy and soft.

CLEAR CUBIC ZIRCONIA

Clear Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone that closely resembles a diamond in its appearance and brilliance. It is made from cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide, which is optically flawless when well-cut. Clear CZ stones are colourless and often faceted to maximise their sparkle and shine.

Cubic Zirconia gained popularity as an affordable alternative to diamonds, offering a similar look without the high price tag. It is widely used in jewellery making, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, and is often set in various metals like sterling silver, gold, or platinum.

Clear Cubic Zirconia is prized for its clarity, durability, and ability to refract light, creating a stunning play of colours and brilliance. It's a popular choice for both everyday wear and special occasions, providing an elegant and glamorous touch to jewellery designs.

CRYSTALS

Crystal jewellery combines the allure of natural crystals or gemstones with artistic craftsmanship to create exquisite adornments. These pieces integrate the inherent beauty and unique energies of crystals into wearable art, often believed to enhance well-being and spiritual harmony. Crystal jewellery serves as both a fashion statement and a conduit for personal intentions, making it a captivating and meaningful accessory.

Several crystals are commonly used in jewellery making due to their captivating colours, unique properties, and metaphysical associations. Here are a few examples:

Amethyst 

Known for its calming energy, amethyst ranges from pale lavender to deep purple and is often used to promote spiritual growth and balance.

Rose Quartz

 A soft pink crystal symbolising love and compassion, often used to foster emotional healing and self-love.

Clear Quartz 

A versatile and powerful crystal, clear quartz is believed to amplify energy and intentions, making it a popular choice for all-purpose jewellery.

Citrine

This vibrant yellow or orange crystal is associated with abundance and positivity, often used to attract wealth and success.

Lapis Lazuli 

Deep blue with gold flecks, lapis lazuli is valued for its connection to wisdom, truth, and inner awareness.

Turquoise 

A bright blue-green stone, turquoise is known for its protective qualities and is often used to enhance communication and creativity.

Moonstone 

With a shimmering play of light, moonstone is associated with intuition, balance, and emotional healing.

Labradorite 

This iridescent stone is believed to enhance one's spiritual connection and inner strength while promoting transformation.

Garnet 

Available in various shades, garnet is linked to passion, energy, and protection, making it a popular choice for both aesthetics and healing.

Hematite 

A metallic grey-black stone often used for grounding and protection, hematite can add an elegant touch to jewellery designs.

Sodalite

Known for its deep blue hue with white streaks, sodalite is thought to enhance communication, self-expression, and rational thinking.

Black Tourmaline

Used for protection against negative energies, black tourmaline is a dark, opaque crystal often incorporated into jewelrley for its grounding properties.

These are just a few examples, and there are many more crystals used in jewellery making, each with its own unique attributes and aesthetics. The choice of crystal often depends on the wearer's preferences, intentions, and beliefs.

RESIN

Resin is a versatile and transparent material commonly used in jewellery making to create unique and eye - catching pieces. It starts as a liquid and hardens into a clear, glossy finish when cured. Jewellery artisans often use resin to encapsulate various elements like dried flowers, glitter, beads, or even small objects, creating intricate and personalised designs. Resin jewellery allows for a mix of colours, textures, and shapes, resulting in one - of - a - kind pieces with a smooth and polished surface. The creative possibilities are virtually limitless, making resin a popular choice among jewellery makers seeking to craft bespoke, wearable art.

Material

Synthetic polymer.

Application

Applied in liquid form and then cured (hardened) using UV light or over time at room temperature.

Finish

Can be clear or coloured, glossy or matte, and can encapsulate objects or create a three-dimensional effect.

Durability

Less durable than enamel; can be prone to scratching and may yellow over time with exposure to UV light.

Uses

Versatile for creating colourful, lightweight, and customisable pieces, often used in costume jewelry and for encapsulating decorative items.

 

ENAMEL

Enamel in jewellery making involves fusing powdered glass to a metal surface through high - temperature firing. This technique creates a smooth, durable, and colourful coating, allowing for intricate designs and vibrant hues. Enamel is used to add decorative elements, highlight details, and create artistic effects in pieces such as pendants, earrings, rings, and brooches. The result is a unique, eye - catching finish that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the jewellery.

Material 

Powdered glass.

Application 

Fused to a metal surface through high - temperature firing.

Finish

Creates a smooth, durable, and often glossy surface.

Durability

Highly resistant to scratches and fading over time.

Uses

Often used for intricate designs, adding vibrant colours, and highlighting details in fine jewellery.