Moissanites - The Brilliant, Affordable Alternative for Engagement Rings

Moissanite: The Brilliant, Affordable Alternative for Engagement Rings

Moissanite is rapidly becoming a top choice for engagement rings as more people seek sustainable and budget-friendly alternatives to traditional gemstones. Chemically known as silicon carbide, moissanite was initially mistaken for diamonds by French scientist Henri Moissan—a testament to its striking beauty. As a cost-effective yet dazzling option, moissanite is an excellent alternative to pricier stones. Here’s everything you need to know before choosing a moissanite engagement ring.

Understanding the 4 C’s of Moissanite

Just like diamonds, moissanite is evaluated based on the 4 C’s: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. These factors influence both quality and price. At Cullen Jewellery, you can rest assured that our moissanite stones meet the highest standards.

• Color: The color grading of gemstones is based on their lack of color—the clearer the stone, the higher its value. Moissanite typically falls within the DEF color range, with D being the highest grade.
• Cut: A gemstone’s cut determines its brilliance. While personal preference plays a role, certain cuts maximize sparkle. The round brilliant cut is the most radiant due to its high number of facets. For those seeking an even more dazzling effect, our Crushed Ice cut features irregular facets that reflect light beautifully, resembling the sparkle of shattered ice.
• Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions or surface blemishes. The grading scale ranges from FL (Flawless) to I3 (Heavily Included). At Cullen Jewellery, our Radiant Beauty moissanite is graded VVS1-VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included), meaning any inclusions are virtually invisible to the naked eye—offering the look of flawless diamonds at a fraction of the cost.
• Carat Weight: Moissanite comes in the same range of carat weights as lab-grown diamonds. Since moissanite is significantly more affordable, you can achieve the look of a large diamond without the steep price tag.

How Much Does Moissanite Cost?

Moissanite is much more budget-friendly than diamonds while still offering incredible brilliance. Pricing depends on the 4 C’s, but to put it in perspective:

• A 7.5mm (1.5ct) VVS1-VVS2 round moissanite costs around £500, whereas a comparable diamond would exceed £6,500.

This makes moissanite an excellent choice for those seeking luxury without breaking the bank.

Choosing the Perfect Setting for Your Moissanite Ring

The setting of your engagement ring influences both its appearance and durability. Here are some factors to consider:

• Ring Height: A high-set ring elevates the stone, creating a bold and glamorous look, while a low-set ring offers a more understated, secure design.
• Metal Choice:
  • Yellow gold remains a favorite, aligning with the enduring trend of understated luxury.
  • White gold is a stylish alternative to platinum, though over time, its rhodium plating may wear off, revealing a yellowish tint.
  • Platinum is the most durable option, maintaining its color and finish without requiring re-plating.
  • Stirling Silver is still a very popular ring finish for those who have allergies or a lower budget.

Caring for Your Moissanite Engagement Ring

Moissanite is exceptionally durable, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale (just shy of diamond’s perfect 10). While it requires minimal maintenance, occasional care will keep it looking brilliant:

• At-home cleaning: Soak your ring in warm, soapy water for 15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Professional cleaning: An annual visit to a jeweler ensures your ring remains in pristine condition, as experts use specialized tools to remove built-up residue.

Final Thoughts

Moissanite engagement rings offer unparalleled beauty, durability, and affordability—allowing you to embrace elegance without compromise. Whether you’re drawn to its dazzling brilliance or its ethical appeal, moissanite is a stunning alternative that doesn’t sacrifice quality or style.