What is Moissanite? A Complete Guide for Australian Buyers (2026)

Moissanite is a gemstone made from silicon carbide. It was first discovered in a meteorite crater in 1893 and is now produced in laboratories for use in fine jewellery. This guide covers what moissanite is, where it comes from, how it is made, what its properties are, and what Australian buyers should know before purchasing.

Last updated: 2 July 2026

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral composed of silicon carbide (SiC). It has a distinct chemical structure, a refractive index higher than diamond, and a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale — placing it among the hardest gemstones used in fine jewellery.

Natural moissanite is exceptionally rare. The quantities found in nature are too small to cut into gemstones for jewellery. Almost all moissanite used in jewellery today is grown in a laboratory, which allows it to be produced to consistent quality standards and at sufficient quantities to be commercially viable.

Moissanite is not a diamond. It is not a diamond substitute or imitation. It is a distinct gemstone with its own chemical composition, optical properties, and physical characteristics. Whether it is the right material for a piece of jewellery depends on those properties and the buyer's preferences — not on how it compares to diamond.

Where Does Moissanite Come From?

Moissanite was first identified in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan. Examining a sample from a meteorite crater in Canyon Diablo, Arizona, he found microscopic crystals of silicon carbide embedded in the rock. He initially believed them to be diamonds. Subsequent analysis confirmed they were a different compound entirely.

The mineral was later named moissanite in his honour.

Natural moissanite occurs in trace quantities in certain types of meteorites, in the mantle material of the earth, and in some rare geological environments. The crystals found in nature are almost always microscopic — large enough to identify under a microscope, but not large enough to facet and set in jewellery.

The moissanite used in fine jewellery today is synthesised in laboratories using a process that grows silicon carbide crystals from a seed under controlled conditions of high heat and pressure. The result is a stone that is chemically identical to natural moissanite and which can be grown to the sizes and clarity grades required for jewellery.

How is Moissanite Made?

Laboratory-grown moissanite is produced through a thermal growing process. A small silicon carbide seed crystal is placed in a controlled chamber and exposed to the specific temperature and pressure conditions under which silicon carbide grows. Over a period of weeks, the crystal grows outward from the seed.

Once the raw crystal reaches the required size, it is cut and faceted. The cutting process for moissanite follows the same principles as diamond cutting — the facet angles are designed to maximise light return and minimise light leakage. The most common cut used for moissanite is the round brilliant, which has been refined to take advantage of moissanite's specific refractive index. Other cuts — oval, pear, emerald, radiant — are also widely produced.

After cutting, moissanite stones are quality-graded by the manufacturer, typically on a colour and clarity scale equivalent to the diamond grading system. Quality moissanite produced today reaches D to F colour equivalent (colourless) and VVS1 to VVS2 clarity equivalent.

Moissanite Properties: What You Need to Know

Hardness

Moissanite rates 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale. This makes it the second-hardest gemstone commonly used in fine jewellery, behind only diamond (Mohs 10). Sapphire and ruby are Mohs 9. Emerald is Mohs 7.5 to 8.

In practical terms, a hardness of 9.25 means moissanite will not be scratched by any common household material. Dust, sand (quartz, Mohs 7), and everyday surfaces will not mark its surface under normal wear. Only diamond — with a hardness of 10 — can scratch moissanite.

For fine jewellery worn daily — bracelets, necklaces, earrings — moissanite's hardness is entirely appropriate. It will maintain its surface polish over years of regular wear with normal care.

Refractive Index

The refractive index of a gemstone determines how strongly it bends light as it enters the stone. A higher refractive index produces more intense light interaction.

Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69. Diamond has a refractive index of 2.42. Moissanite bends light more strongly than diamond, which contributes to its exceptional brightness and fire.

Fire (Colour Dispersion)

Fire describes the separation of white light into its spectral colours as it passes through a faceted stone. It produces the coloured flashes visible as a piece moves.

Moissanite's fire rating is 0.104. Diamond's fire rating is 0.044. Moissanite produces more than twice the coloured light dispersion of diamond. Under directional lighting — sunlight, overhead artificial light — moissanite shows vivid coloured flashes alongside its white brilliance. In diffuse or softer light, the difference is less pronounced.

Brilliance (White Light Return)

Brilliance refers to the return of white light through the top of a faceted stone — the clean, bright "alive" quality most people associate with a sparkling gemstone.

Moissanite has very high brilliance. Because its refractive index exceeds that of diamond, it bends more light back through the table. The light return is composed slightly differently to diamond — moissanite's higher dispersion means a greater proportion of the returned light is split into colour, whereas diamond returns more of its light as white. Both are optically vivid.

For many buyers, moissanite's combination of high fire and high brilliance is one of its most appealing properties. The visual effect is distinct and immediately visible.

Toughness

Toughness measures resistance to fracturing or chipping under impact. It is a separate property from hardness.

Moissanite has good toughness. It does not chip or fracture easily under normal wear conditions. Like any hard gemstone, it can fracture under extreme concentrated impact — being struck sharply against a very hard surface at a specific angle. For everyday jewellery wear, this is not a practical concern.

Density and Weight

Moissanite has a lower density than diamond. A moissanite stone of the same millimetre diameter as a diamond will weigh approximately 10 to 15 per cent less. This is why moissanite is typically sold by millimetre diameter rather than carat weight. The carat weight of a moissanite stone is not directly equivalent to the carat weight of a diamond of the same visual size.

When assessing moissanite, millimetre diameter is the most useful specification to compare. A 6.5mm round moissanite is the diameter equivalent of a 1.0ct round diamond.

What Does Moissanite Look Like?

Moissanite looks like a bright, highly refractive gemstone. It is colourless at the D to F colour grade range used in quality fine jewellery, with no visible tint in natural light.

Its defining visual characteristic is its fire — the vivid rainbow-coloured flashes produced as it moves in light. Moissanite produces more fire than diamond of equivalent size. Buyers who see moissanite for the first time often describe it as "alive" under directional light.

In natural daylight or diffuse lighting, moissanite reads as a bright, clean, white-to-clear stone. The fire is most visible under direct overhead light, sunlight, or strong artificial lighting. In low or ambient light conditions — evening, candlelight, shade — the fire is less dramatic and both moissanite and diamond appear more similar.

For most fine jewellery settings — earrings, tennis bracelets, tennis necklaces — the fire of moissanite is a feature of the piece rather than a distraction. In a line setting where many stones catch light together, the effect is particularly vivid.

Colour grading note: Moissanite produced to D to F colourless grade reads as white in all lighting conditions when set in silver or white-toned metals. Some moissanite pieces set in yellow gold may read with a slight warmth because of light reflecting from the yellow metal onto the stone. This is a setting effect, not a stone quality issue.

Is Moissanite Real?

Yes. Moissanite is a real gemstone. It is a naturally occurring mineral that has been documented, studied, and classified by gemologists since 1893. The fact that it is produced in laboratories for commercial use does not make it synthetic in the sense of being fake or inauthentic.

The confusion around this question typically comes from two sources. First, the word "synthetic" — which in gemological usage means "laboratory grown," not "imitation." A synthetic gemstone is chemically and physically identical to its natural counterpart. Second, the association with diamond — moissanite is sometimes described in ways that imply it is a replacement for diamond, which can make it seem less legitimate as a material in its own right.

Moissanite is neither a fake diamond nor a synthetic imitation of one. It is a different mineral — silicon carbide — that is distinct from diamond (carbon) in chemical composition, optical behaviour, and physical properties. It is a real gemstone that happens to be visually similar to diamond in some respects, and distinctly different in others.

For buyers who specifically want a diamond, moissanite is not the right material. For buyers who want a high-quality, highly refractive gemstone — and are choosing it on its own merits — moissanite is a genuine and appropriate fine jewellery material.

Moissanite vs Diamond: Key Differences

The most practical differences for a buyer comparing moissanite to diamond are optical character, certification, and price. Moissanite produces more fire and a slightly different type of sparkle to diamond. Diamond is individually certified by independent gemological laboratories. Moissanite is available at a lower price point than lab-grown diamond in solid gold settings.

Neither material is superior to the other. They have different properties that suit different buyers and different pieces. For a deeper comparison of the two materials, the complete moissanite vs lab grown diamond guide covers every relevant dimension in detail.

What Jewellery is Moissanite Used In?

Moissanite is used across most fine jewellery categories. The most common formats in Australia are:

Tennis Bracelets

Tennis bracelets are one of the most widely searched moissanite jewellery types in Australia. A moissanite tennis bracelet features a continuous line of individually set stones in a flexible chain setting. The high fire of moissanite means each stone in the line catches light independently, producing a vivid, sparkle-rich piece.

Tennis bracelets are available in different widths (2mm and 3mm are most common) and in different metal options. Bellari's moissanite tennis bracelet collection starts from $570 AUD in rhodium-plated sterling silver.

Tennis Necklaces

Tennis necklaces follow the same continuous stone-line format as bracelets, worn at the neckline. They are available in 16-inch and 18-inch lengths and in 2mm and 3mm widths. The moissanite tennis necklace starts from $850 AUD.

Stud Earrings

Moissanite stud earrings are one of the most practical and versatile applications for the stone. The high refractive index means even smaller stones — 0.5ct to 1.0ct per ear — produce visible sparkle at the distances earrings are typically viewed from. Available in round, oval, pear, radiant and emerald cuts, moissanite studs suit daily wear and formal occasions equally. Bellari's moissanite earrings start from $340 AUD per pair.

Eternity Bands and Rings

Moissanite eternity bands feature stones set continuously around the band in a channel or prong setting. They are worn as standalone rings or stacked with engagement rings. Moissanite's 9.25 hardness makes it appropriate for rings that experience regular contact with hard surfaces.

Moissanite in Australia: What to Know Before Buying

The Australian market for moissanite jewellery is well developed. Several Australian retailers stock moissanite across the price spectrum, from mass-market pieces at lower price points to boutique fine jewellery at quality-led price points.

When buying moissanite in Australia, the most important things to assess are:

Colour grade: Look for D to F colourless grade. Below F, some moissanite can show slight warmth, particularly in certain lighting conditions. The grade range should be stated by the retailer.

Clarity grade: VVS1 to VVS2 is the standard for quality moissanite. Lower clarity grades may show inclusions visible to the naked eye in certain viewing conditions.

Setting metal: Most moissanite in Australia is set in rhodium-plated 925 sterling silver. The rhodium plating gives a bright white finish that complements the stone well. Over time, rhodium plating on rings and bracelets can wear and may require replating. For earrings and necklaces, plating wear is significantly slower due to less surface contact.

Stone size (by mm, not carat): Because moissanite has a lower density than diamond, the carat weight of moissanite is not the same as an equivalent-looking diamond. Use millimetre dimensions when comparing sizes across different stones or materials.

Supplier quality: The consistency of moissanite quality has improved significantly over the past decade. Reputable suppliers state their colour and clarity grade range clearly and source from established manufacturers.

Bellari's moissanite pieces are sourced to D to F colour equivalent and VVS1 to VVS2 clarity equivalent, set in rhodium-plated 925 sterling silver. The full moissanite range is available at Bellari. The Sparkle Guide covers additional detail on stone properties and care.

Does Moissanite Get Cloudy or Fade Over Time?

No. Moissanite does not get cloudy or fade over time under normal wear conditions.

The clarity and optical character of a moissanite stone are determined by its physical and chemical structure, which does not change with wear or exposure to normal environmental conditions. A moissanite stone will not cloud, yellow, or become dull simply as a result of time passing.

What can affect how moissanite looks is surface contamination — the accumulation of skin oils, soap residue, and environmental particles on the surface of the stone. This creates a film that reduces the stone's reflectivity and apparent brightness. It is not clouding; it is surface build-up. It can be removed by cleaning.

A moissanite stone that appears dull or less bright than when purchased almost always needs cleaning rather than replacement or treatment.

For cleaning, warm soapy water and a soft brush are appropriate for most moissanite jewellery. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used for moissanite pieces that do not have other components (such as treated stones or certain adhesive elements) that would be affected. Steam cleaning is generally safe for moissanite itself but check the full piece before using steam.

For detailed care instructions, the moissanite care guide for Australia covers cleaning, storage, and what to avoid.

The setting metal can change over time in ways that affect appearance. Rhodium plating on rings and bracelets can wear through with consistent abrasion, revealing the silver base beneath. This is a setting maintenance question, not a stone quality question. Replating is straightforward and relatively inexpensive.

Moissanite Colour: What the D-to-F Grade Means

Colour grading for moissanite follows a system equivalent to the GIA diamond colour scale, where D is perfectly colourless and the scale moves through E, F, G, H, I and beyond toward increasing warmth.

In practice, moissanite sold in fine jewellery in Australia today is typically produced to D, E, F (colourless) or G, H, I (near-colourless) grades. The difference between D and F is not visible to the naked eye in normal viewing conditions. The difference between F and H may be visible in certain cuts and lighting conditions, particularly in larger stones and emerald cuts where the clarity of the stone is more apparent.

For most buyers, the decision between D-E-F and G-H-I comes down to price and personal preference for a stone that reads as completely colourless versus one that may show slight warmth in certain conditions.

All moissanite pieces in Bellari's range are sourced to D to F colourless equivalent.

Summary: What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a naturally occurring silicon carbide gemstone, first discovered in a meteorite crater in 1893 and now grown in laboratories for use in fine jewellery. It rates 9.25 on the Mohs scale, has a higher refractive index than diamond (2.65 to 2.69 vs 2.42), and produces more than twice the fire (colour dispersion) of diamond. It is a real gemstone with its own distinct properties — not an imitation or substitute for any other material.

In fine jewellery, moissanite is used in tennis bracelets, tennis necklaces, stud earrings, eternity bands, and rings. It does not cloud or fade over time. It does not require special care beyond regular cleaning with warm soapy water and appropriate storage.

For buyers in Australia, moissanite is available in rhodium-plated sterling silver settings across most fine jewellery categories. The Bellari range begins at $340 AUD and covers earrings, tennis bracelets, tennis necklaces, and eternity bands — all sourced to D to F colour equivalent and VVS1 to VVS2 clarity equivalent.

For a direct comparison of moissanite and lab-grown diamond, see the moissanite vs lab grown diamond buyer's guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moissanite

What exactly is moissanite? Moissanite is a gemstone made from silicon carbide (SiC). It was first discovered in 1893 in a meteorite crater and is now grown in laboratories for commercial jewellery production. It is a distinct mineral, not a form of diamond or a diamond substitute.

Is moissanite a real gemstone? Yes. Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral that has been documented and classified by gemologists since its discovery in 1893. The fact that it is laboratory grown for commercial use does not make it less real. "Synthetic" in gemological usage means laboratory grown, not fake.

Is moissanite the same as a diamond? No. Moissanite and diamond are different materials. Diamond is carbon; moissanite is silicon carbide. They have different chemical compositions, different refractive indexes, different fire ratings, and different hardness levels. They look similar from a distance but behave differently under light. For a detailed comparison, see the moissanite vs lab grown diamond guide.

How hard is moissanite? Moissanite rates 9.25 on the Mohs scale. This makes it the second-hardest gemstone commonly used in fine jewellery. Only diamond (Mohs 10) is harder. Moissanite is appropriate for everyday jewellery wear including rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces.

Does moissanite get cloudy over time? No. The optical properties of moissanite do not change over time. Surface contamination — oils, soap residue, environmental particles — can make the stone appear less bright, but this is removed by cleaning. A moissanite stone that looks dull needs cleaning, not replacement.

Where does moissanite come from? Natural moissanite was first found in a meteorite crater in Canyon Diablo, Arizona, in 1893. Natural moissanite crystals are too small to use in jewellery. All moissanite used in fine jewellery today is laboratory grown from silicon carbide seed crystals.

Is moissanite a good choice for jewellery in Australia? Moissanite is a durable, high-refractive gemstone that performs well in all fine jewellery formats — earrings, tennis bracelets, tennis necklaces, eternity bands, and rings. It holds up to daily wear, does not cloud or fade, and is available at accessible price points in Australia. Whether it is the right choice depends on the piece, the buyer's optical preferences, and their budget.

What colour grade should I look for in moissanite? D to F colourless grade is the highest available and the most visually clean in all lighting conditions. G to H near-colourless may show slight warmth in certain cuts and lighting conditions. For everyday fine jewellery, D to F is the standard used by quality-led retailers.

Can moissanite be worn every day? Yes. Moissanite at 9.25 Mohs hardness is appropriate for daily wear across all jewellery types. It will not be scratched by common household materials or environmental dust. Rinse pieces periodically in warm soapy water to remove surface build-up and store individually to avoid surface contact with other pieces. See the moissanite care guide for full care instructions.

What is the difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia? They are different materials. Cubic zirconia (CZ) is zirconium dioxide — a synthetic material with a hardness of 8 to 8.5 Mohs and lower durability than moissanite. CZ is significantly less hard than moissanite and can develop surface scratches over time with daily wear. Moissanite at 9.25 Mohs is considerably harder and maintains its surface quality with normal care. CZ is also produced at very low cost; quality moissanite is a distinct and considerably more durable gemstone.

Where can I buy moissanite jewellery in Australia? Moissanite is available online from Australian boutique retailers and from international retailers shipping to Australia. For locally designed pieces, Bellari's moissanite collection is designed in Sydney and ships with complimentary delivery across Australia. For guidance on buying moissanite, the Sparkle Guide covers material properties and what to look for.