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The 4C's of Moissanite Gemstones

Just like natural diamonds, the 4Cs stand for carat weight, color, cut and clarity, and moissanite gemstones are graded in each of these areas by GRA Certification through it's governing body. You will find this certificate provided to you with your jewellery.

Carat

  • ​Lab grown moissanite are lighter than diamonds, so their size is measured slightly differently, often in millimeters (mm). A moissanite of the same size as a diamond will weigh about 10-15% less.

  • They are often described by their diamond equivalent weight (DEW), which helps buyers understand how the size compares to diamonds.

  • For example, a 1-carat diamond equivalent moissanite typically weighs slightly less but has the same physical size.

 

Color

  • Lab grown moissanite come in a range of colors, with the most desirable being colorless (D-F) or nearly-colorless (G-H). They are also available in warmer tones of faint yellow, green, or gray tints.

 

Cut

  • Lab grown moissanite are often cut to enhance their exceptional brilliance and fire (dispersion of light into rainbow-like flashes). Unlike diamonds, moissanite tend to have a higher refractive index, so their cuts aim to highlight this intense sparkle.

  • Common cuts: Round, cushion, oval, emerald, and princess.

 

Clarity

  • Lab grown moissanite are typically very high in clarity, with most stones graded at "VVS" (Very Very Slightly Included) or better.

  • Most moissanite are nearly flawless, with clarity ratings that often exceed those of natural diamonds. Any inclusions present are usually microscopic and not visible to the naked eye.

 

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