What type of engagement ring should you choose? Moissanite rings are growing in popularity and if you're about to invest in this memory-making bauble, take a look at what you need to know about this mineral:

What Is Moissanite?

This naturally occurring mineral was discovered inside of a crater after a meteorite strike in Arizona. A chemist, Dr. Henri Moissan, found the mineral. As you may have guessed, the stone's name comes from Dr. Moissan.

How Does Moissanite Differ from a Diamond?

The two gems form through different processes. Again, moissanite comes from a mineral originally found in a meteorite crater. Diamonds are formed deep in the Earth under extremely high temperatures and pressures.

Moissanite scores higher on the Brilliance Refractive Index than diamonds. This means it's a more brilliant gemstone. However, when it comes to hardness, diamonds outscore moissanite. To the untrained eye, moissanite engagement rings may look similar to or exactly like the diamond version.

A moissanite stone isn't always completely clear like a diamond is. You may see gray, green, or yellow tints within the gem. These hues are more noticeable in larger stones.

Is Moissanite Less Expensive Than a Diamond?

If price is a major factor in your engagement ring decision, moissanite rings are a better option. With a lower price point, moissanite is an economical option that doesn't sacrifice style for value. While there is some variation in moissanite prices, you aren't likely to find a ring that matches a diamond's price tag.

Does Moissanite Look Less Expensive?

An engagement ring is a forever piece of jewelry. Beyond that, this ring will take a spotlight place in the bride-to-be's life for months or more. This means she'll show off the ring in person and in picture.

If you have concerns about moissanite and whether it looks cheap or not, you don't have much to worry about. Unlike man-made faux gems, moissanite has a brilliance, clarity, and shine that looks much more expensive than it is.

Why Choose Moissanite Over a Diamond?

Diamonds are the traditional gemstones of engagement rings. With this in mind, why would you choose something different? Again, price is a major factor for many engaged couples. If price isn't an issue, you may want to consider the brilliance and sparkle of moissanite over a diamond anyway.

Engagement rings are extremely personal. If you don't want or can't afford a diamond, this meteorite-made option is an alternative to explore.