Continuing on my topic of getting engaged on a budget, I’d like to bring up another option that some say is better than a diamond. Back in 1998, Charles & Colvard became the first and only company to produce the only gemstone second in hardness to a diamond. This amazing gem is called Moissanite (moys-un-ite). Owning this gem has been on my wishlist for years.
So what is Moissanite? Moissanite is silicon carbide taken from a meteor crater. It is truly not of this world! Due to its chemical properties, Moissanite is more stunning than a diamond. It is 10% more brilliant, and its fire is 2.5 x greater! Moissanite is also less likely to attract grease and oil, so it stays shinier longer!
“Wait a minute!” you say. “You just got done telling us that Cubic Zirconia is almost as hard as a diamond and has greater fire!” Don’t fret, silly readers, both facts are correct. Cubic Zirconia is a synthetic diamond, where as Moissanite is its own unique substance.
Moissanite is NOT a synthetic diamond. The two gems are made up of completely different chemical properties. Diamonds are carbon. As I previously stated, Moissanite is silicon carbide.
I covet Moissanite. I have been longing for pieces of Moissanite jewelry since 2002 when a good friend of mine received a Moissanite engagement ring. It wasn’t the setting that I loved, it was the Moissanite. I could stare at that thing for hours!
Moisannite is more expensive than Cubic Zirconia, but less expensive than diamonds. The settings tend to be in gold or platinum more often than silver, due to the value of the gem. I constantly peruse Moissanite on the web, adding items to my ever-growing wishlist.
Here are three of my favorites:
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Princess cut solitaires do exactly what the name says, they make the recipient feel like a princess. This engagement ring is 1.25 carats. It’s not so big that it will weigh your finger down, but people can see your ring from a distance. Also the white 14k gold adds the perfect, subtle complement to the stone. This is classic and can be worn to a formal occasion or with jeans and a t-shirt.
I love the user reviews for this engagement ring. An added bonus is that the ring comes with a Charles & Colvard Certificate of Authenticity.
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As you may know, I am a sucker for bezel settings. I think that they are making a comeback. The bezel setting is beautiful, different, and gives the Moissanite a look and depth that contrasts to the more common, higher settings. The 1 carat stone gets attention without making the wearer self-conscious or flashy.
I also love the two-tone gold! I am a type-A personality. If my earrings, rings, and necklace don’t match, then I can’t leave the house. I even had my wedding band handmade with white and yellow gold. This ring’s designer was a smart cookie, the gorgeous piece of jewelry goes with everything.
When we got engaged years ago, I wanted to have this exact ring made, but we didn’t have much money. Needless to say, it has always been on my mind. Since I found this engagement ring already made, I have sent my dear husband the link for this ring more times than I’d like to admit! It would make a great anniversary gift!
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I don’t own much vintage jewelry. I envy my friends who pull off the look with ease. This engagement ring is so elegant that I feel as if it is straight from the pages of the Great Gatsby.
This engagement ring contains a 1 carat Moissanite gem, surrounded by tiny accent diamonds. The intricate detailing would take anyone’s breath away at first, second, and even tenth glance! What is even better is that this 14K white gold ring comes with a Charles & Colvard Certificate of Authenticity and a lifetime guarantee on the Moissanite.
Owning a Moissanite engagement ring has become just as prestigious as owning a diamond. Although diamonds may be associated with love, Moissanite is associated with the stars. Is there a better way to tell your love she is out of this world?
