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Everything You Need to Know About Moissanite

Understanding Moissanite:

Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral "silicon carbide" first discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan in a meteor crater in Arizona. He initially believed the crystals were diamonds due to their brilliance.

What makes it rare:

Natural moissanite is extraordinarily rare on Earth. The crystals Dr. Moissan found were tiny fragments from a meteorite, not large enough for jewellery.

Modern moissanite:

The moissanite used in fine jewellery today is lab-grown using advanced technology that replicates the same chemical composition and crystal structure as the natural mineral. This process takes months and requires precise conditions to create gem-quality stones.

Why lab-grown:

Lab-grown moissanite allows us to create larger, flawless stones with consistent quality something impossible to source from the minuscule natural deposits. The result is a gemstone with exceptional brilliance, durability, and ethical origins.

Every Bellari piece features premium moissanite D colour (colourless), VVS1 clarity, and precision-cut for maximum fire and sparkle.

Yes. Moissanite is a real gemstone with its own distinct chemical composition (silicon carbide) and physical properties.

What makes it real:

Moissanite has a defined crystal structure, hardness rating (9.25 on the Mohs scale), and refractive properties that differentiate it from all other gemstones including diamonds.

It's not a diamond simulant or imitation, it's its own gemstone with characteristics that, in some ways, exceed diamonds (higher refractive index, more fire).

On lab-grown vs natural:

Lab-grown moissanite is chemically and physically identical to the naturally occurring mineral discovered in meteorites. The only difference is origin one is created in a controlled laboratory, the other formed in space.

The same is true for lab-grown diamonds, lab-grown sapphires, and other lab-created gemstones. The process of creation doesn't make them less "real."

Used in fine jewellery:

Moissanite is set in the same precious metals (gold, platinum, sterling silver) and crafted with the same techniques as diamonds and other fine gemstones.

At Bellari, we treat moissanite with the same care and precision as any gemstone.

Where does moissanite come from?

Natural moissanite comes from meteorites and certain types of rock formations, but these deposits are microscopic and extraordinarily rare.

The discovery:

In 1893, Dr. Henri Moissan discovered tiny silicon carbide crystals in a meteor crater in Canyon Diablo, Arizona. He initially thought they were diamonds due to their exceptional brilliance.

It took years to confirm these crystals were a new mineral later named moissanite in his honour.

Why it's lab-grown today:

Natural moissanite exists in quantities too small for jewellery. The largest natural moissanite crystal ever found measured less than 4mm not even large enough for a single earring stud.

Lab-grown moissanite replicates the same silicon carbide crystal structure through a thermal growing process that takes months under controlled conditions.

On ethical sourcing:

Because moissanite is created in laboratories, there's no mining, no environmental disruption, and complete transparency in origin. Every stone is traceable and ethically produced.

Read our guide on Is Moissanite Real? Everything You Need to Know

Moissanite vs Other Gemstones:

To the untrained eye, rarely can anyone tell the difference.

On appearance:

Both are colourless (when comparing D-colour moissanite to colourless diamonds), both sparkle intensely, and both are set in identical settings and metals.

The primary difference: moissanite has more fire, the rainbow flashes of colour that occur when light refracts through the stone. Diamonds create more white brilliance; moissanite creates more colourful sparkle.

Even jewellers:

Even professional jewellers sometimes need specialised testing equipment to differentiate the two. Visual inspection alone isn't definitive.

On Bellari's quality:

Every Bellari moissanite is D-colour (completely colourless) and VVS1 clarity, the same grades used for the finest diamonds. This premium quality ensures our stones match or exceed the appearance of high-quality diamonds.

Lower-grade moissanite with tints or inclusions appears noticeably different from diamonds. Our selection standards ensure this never happens.

What this means for you:

If you want a stone that looks like a diamond, Bellari's premium moissanite will deliver that. If you specifically want diamond's particular optical signature (more white light, less rainbow fire), then diamond is the choice.

Many of our customers prefer moissanite's fire, they find the extra sparkle more captivating.

Explore Moissanite Jewellery:

Will moissanite pass a diamond tester?

Bellari's moissanite passes most thermal diamond testers, thanks to its high conductivity and premium quality.

How thermal testers work:

Basic diamond testers measure thermal conductivity, how quickly heat dissipates through the stone. Diamonds conduct heat exceptionally well, which is how these testers identify them.

High-quality moissanite also conducts heat at a similar rate, so thermal testers often register premium moissanite as "diamond."

Advanced testers:

Electrical conductivity testers can differentiate moissanite from diamond. Moissanite conducts electricity; diamonds do not.

Jewellers with advanced equipment can definitively identify moissanite, but most standard diamond testers found in retail stores will not.

On Bellari's moissanite quality:

Every Bellari piece features D-colour (completely colourless), VVS1 clarity moissanite, the highest grades available. This premium quality ensures consistent thermal properties and brilliant performance.

Lower-quality moissanite with inclusions or poor cutting may not pass thermal testers as reliably. Our stones are selected specifically for their exceptional optical and physical properties.

What this means:

If someone tests your Bellari piece with a basic diamond tester, it will likely indicate "diamond." This reflects moissanite's similar thermal properties and our commitment to premium quality stones, not that it's attempting to be a diamond.

Moissanite is its own gemstone with its own distinct characteristics, passing or failing a diamond test doesn't change what it is.

Which is better: moissanite or cubic zirconia?

Moissanite is superior in every measurable way.

Durability:

Moissanite: 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, extremely resistant to scratching and chipping. Suitable for daily wear indefinitely.

Cubic zirconia: 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, softer, more prone to scratches, chips, and surface damage over time.

Brilliance:

Moissanite: Refractive index of 2.65-2.69. Creates exceptional fire and brilliance that remains permanent.

Cubic zirconia: Lower refractive index (2.15-2.18). Initially sparkles, but loses brilliance quickly as the soft surface becomes scratched and clouded from daily contact. Within months, the sparkle diminishes noticeably. The stone develops a dull, lifeless appearance that clearly signals it's not a precious gemstone.

Longevity:

Moissanite: Permanent. Will look identical in 50 years as it does today.

Cubic zirconia: Degrades rapidly. Most CZ stones lose their sparkle and become visibly cloudy within just a few months of regular wear. The surface scratches easily, creating a dull, chalky appearance that makes it obviously inexpensive. By 1-2 years, the difference is unmistakable, the stone looks nothing like it did when new.

Use in fine jewellery:

Moissanite is used in fine jewellery set in precious metals. Cubic zirconia is typically used in fashion jewellery.

At Bellari, we use only moissanite, it's the only gemstone that meets our standards for quality, durability, and lasting beauty.

Moissanite sparkles more than diamonds - measurably so.

On brilliance:

Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65-2.69, compared to diamond's 2.42. This means moissanite bends light more dramatically, creating more fire (rainbow flashes) and brilliance (white light reflection).

In direct sunlight or bright lighting, moissanite's sparkle is immediately noticeable - more colourful, more intense than diamond.

What this looks like:

Diamonds create white sparkle with subtle rainbow flashes.

Moissanite creates bold rainbow fire alongside white brilliance - more dramatic, more colourful.

Some prefer diamond's subtlety. Many find moissanite's fire more captivating.

Can you tell the difference between moissanite and diamond?

Most people cannot. Even jewellers need tools.

The differences that exist:

Fire: Moissanite displays more rainbow sparkle (fire) than diamonds. In bright lighting, this becomes more noticeabl, more colourful flashes.

Refractive index: Moissanite has a higher refractive index (2.65-2.69 vs diamond's 2.42), meaning it bends light more dramatically.

Hardness: Diamonds rate 10 on the Mohs scale; moissanite rates 9.25. Both are extremely durable, but diamond is slightly harder.

How to tell them apart:

Thermal diamond testers often cannot distinguish moissanite from diamond because both conduct heat similarly.

Advanced electrical conductivity testers can differentiate them, moissanite conducts electricity differently than diamond.

Visual inspection alone, even by professionals, is unreliable.

On Bellari's quality:

Our D-colour, VVS1 clarity moissanite is cut and polished to the same exacting standards as fine diamonds. This premium quality makes visual differentiation virtually impossible.

Lower-grade moissanite with colour tints or visible inclusions is easier to distinguish from diamonds. Our selection ensures this never happens.

In everyday wear:

When set in jewellery and worn, the differences are subtle enough that most people even those examining your jewellery closely won't identify it as moissanite unless you tell them.

Quality & Durability:

Will moissanite lose its sparkle?

No. Moissanite's brilliance is permanent.

Why sparkle is permanent:

Sparkle comes from how the stone's facets refract and reflect light. This is determined by the crystal structure and cut, both of which are permanent.

Moissanite doesn't change chemically or structurally over time, so the way it interacts with light remains identical indefinitely.

What can dull sparkle temporarily:

Surface buildup from daily wear, oils from skin, lotions, soap, makeup. This creates a film over the facets that reduces light return.

A simple cleaning removes this buildup and restores full sparkle immediately.

Compared to other stones:

Unlike cubic zirconia (which scratches easily and loses sparkle permanently) or softer gemstones that can develop surface wear, moissanite's 9.25 hardness means it resists scratching and maintains its polished facets.

Long-term expectation:

Your Bellari moissanite will sparkle with the same intensity in 20 years as it does today, provided you clean it regularly to remove surface buildup.

Will moissanite tarnish over time?

No. Moissanite itself never tarnishes, it's the metal setting that may require care.

On the stone:

Moissanite is silicon carbide. It doesn't oxidise, corrode, or tarnish under any conditions. The stone will maintain its colour and brilliance permanently.

On the metal:

Sterling silver (rhodium-plated): The rhodium plating prevents tarnish. If the plating wears through over years, the underlying silver may develop tarnish, but this is the metal, not the moissanite. The plating can be renewed by a jeweller.

Gold (10K, 14K, 18K): Gold does not tarnish. It may develop a patina or surface dulling from oils and wear, but this cleans away easily.

Platinum: Does not tarnish.

Cleaning:

If your piece appears dull, it's likely surface buildup on the metal or stones. Warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush restore brilliance to both the moissanite and the metal.

Does moissanite get cloudy over time?

No. Premium quality moissanite does not cloud, dull, or change appearance over time.

Why cloudiness doesn't happen:

Moissanite is silicon carbide, a stable, permanent crystal structure. It doesn't degrade, oxidise, or change chemically over years or decades.

If your moissanite appears less brilliant, it's surface buildup (oils, lotions, soap residue), not the stone itself clouding. A simple cleaning restores full brilliance.

On Bellari's quality standards:

Lower-quality moissanite with inclusions or poor cutting can appear cloudy from the start, but this is a quality issue at the time of creation, not something that develops over time.

Every Bellari moissanite is VVS1 clarity—virtually no inclusions, and D colour (completely colourless). We select only the highest grades to ensure permanent brilliance.

This is why quality matters: premium moissanite maintains perfect clarity indefinitely, whilst lower grades may appear dull even when new.

How to maintain clarity:

Clean your moissanite weekly with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. This removes buildup and keeps the stone sparkling exactly as it did when new.

Is moissanite suitable for everyday wear?

Yes. Moissanite is one of the most durable gemstones available.

Durability:

At 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, moissanite is harder than sapphire (9.0) and nearly as hard as diamond (10). It resists scratching, chipping, and abrasion from daily activities.

Heat resistance:

Moissanite withstands high temperatures without damage, higher than most other gemstones. You can wear it whilst cooking, in hot climates, near heat sources without concern.

Chemical resistance:

Household chemicals, chlorine, saltwater, moissanite is unaffected. The metal setting (silver, gold) requires more care than the stone itself.

What this means in practice:

You can wear your Bellari moissanite jewellery daily, through work, exercise, errands, sleep (though we suggest removing jewellery at night for comfort and to preserve metal settings).

Our pieces are designed to be lived in, not stored away.

Care recommendations:

Remove during vigorous exercise or manual work to protect the metal settings and clasps, not the stones themselves.

Clean weekly to maintain brilliance.

Read more on Moissanite Explained: What It Is, Why It Matters, and What to Know Before You Buy

Care & Maintenance:

How do I clean moissanite jewellery?

Warm water, mild soap, soft brush. It's simple and takes less than 5 minutes.

The process:

Fill a small bowl with warm (not hot) water
Add one drop of mild dish soap
Use a soft-bristle brush (a clean toothbrush works perfectly) to gently clean around each stone and setting
Rinse thoroughly under warm running water
Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth
Allow to air dry completely before storing

What to avoid:

Harsh chemicals: Bleach, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners can damage metal finishes.

Ultrasonic cleaners: Whilst safe for moissanite, the vibrations can loosen prong settings over time. Hand cleaning is gentler on the overall piece.

Rough materials: Avoid paper towels or rough cloths that can scratch metal finishes.

How often:

Weekly if worn daily. Monthly if worn occasionally.

Regular cleaning maintains Bellari's premium moissanite at its full brilliance, the D-colour and VVS1 clarity we select for ensures your stones sparkle intensely when properly maintained.

Professional cleaning:

Any jeweller can professionally clean moissanite using the same methods used for diamonds. This isn't necessary frequently, but it's an option if you prefer.

How do I care for my moissanite jewellery?

Clean regularly, store properly, and remove during activities that stress the metal settings.

Daily care:

Remove before applying lotions, perfumes, or hairspray. These create buildup that dulls brilliance.

Put your jewellery on last when getting ready, after makeup and styling products.

When to remove:

Sleep: Removes stress on clasps and settings. Your pieces last longer.

Swimming: Chlorine and saltwater don't harm moissanite, but they can affect metal finishes.

Manual work: Protects both the stones and settings from impact and catching.

Vigorous exercise: Prevents damage to clasps and chains from movement and perspiration.

Storage:

Store each piece separately in its Bellari pouch or a soft-lined jewellery box. This prevents pieces from scratching each other.

Keep jewellery dry and away from direct sunlight (to preserve metal finishes, not the moissanite).

Inspection:

Check prong settings and clasps every few months to ensure everything remains secure. If anything feels loose, contact us immediately.

Long-term care:

With proper care, your Bellari moissanite jewellery will look identical in decades as it does today.

Choosing Your Piece:

How should a tennis bracelet fit?

A tennis bracelet should rest comfortably against the wrist with slight movement, neither sliding over the hand nor sitting too tightly.

The ideal fit:

Measure your wrist where the bracelet will sit (just below the wrist bone). Add 1-2 centimetres depending on your preference:

+1cm for a closer fit that moves minimally
+2cm for a looser fit with more movement and comfort

The bracelet should slide slightly when you move your wrist, but not so much that it catches on clothing or feels insecure.

Our sizing:

We offer four lengths:

6.0" (15cm) — For petite wrists (13-14cm)
6.5" (16.5cm) — Small (14.5-15.5cm)
7.0" (18cm) — Medium (16-17cm) - Most common
7.5" (19cm) — Large (17.5-18.5cm)

When in doubt, we suggest measuring rather than guessing. The fit affects how the piece sits and moves.

View our complete size guide or still unsure about your size?

We regularly help customers choose their perfect fit. Contact us directly via hello@bellari.com.au or fill out the form here

How do I choose the right moissanite jewellery?

Consider three factors: what you'll wear it with, how often you'll wear it, and which pieces bring you joy.

For everyday wear:

Tennis bracelets - Our most versatile piece. Works with everything from casual weekend wear to formal occasions.

Stud earrings - Classic, comfortable, appropriate for any setting. Choose from round, oval, emerald, radiant, or pear cuts.

Eternity bands - Worn daily as wedding bands, anniversary bands, or simply because they're beautiful.

For special occasions:

Tennis necklaces - Elegant for formal events, weddings, or evenings out.

Tennis sets - The matched necklace and bracelet create a complete, considered look.

For layering and stacking:

Tennis bracelets stack beautifully together or with watches.

Eternity bands can be stacked multiple bands for a dramatic effect.

Stud earrings work in multiple piercings, pair different cuts for visual interest.

On sizing:

Each product page includes detailed sizing guidance. When uncertain, reach out to us at hello@bellari.com.au

We regularly help customers choose their perfect fit.

Should I choose 16" or 18" for a tennis necklace?

16 inches sits along the collarbone. 18 inches sits lower on the chest.

The most considered choice is 16 inches, designed to sit just along the collarbone and create a clean, refined line. It is the length most clients are naturally drawn to, as it frames the neckline with quiet precision.

An 18 inch length offers a softer drape, sitting slightly lower on the chest. It lends itself well to layering, especially when paired with finer chains or a single pendant.

On necklines:

16" works with strapless, off-shoulder, V-neck, and scoop necks. The necklace frames the opening rather than falling into it.

18" works with higher necklines, crew necks, or when layering with other chains. The additional length prevents crowding at the collarbone.

For different neck lengths:

Shorter necks: 18 inches creates visual length. The lower sit point elongates the neckline rather than cutting it horizontally.

Longer necks: Both 16" and 18" work. 16" creates a deliberate choker effect that emphasizes the neck itself. 18" sits more traditionally at the base of the throat.

Average necks: 16 inches is the classic proportion - sitting where a tennis necklace has traditionally sat for decades.

Read more on Tennis Necklace Size Guide here

What's the difference between moissanite cuts?

Each cut creates a different optical effect and aesthetic.

Round brilliant cut:

The classic. 58 facets create maximum fire and brilliance. This cut has remained the standard for over a century because the geometry is simply correct. Works for every style and occasion.

Oval cut:

Elongated brilliance with a vintage-inspired aesthetic. The elongated shape creates visual length, particularly flattering for those with round facial structures or shorter fingers.

Emerald cut:

Step-cut facets create a "hall of mirrors" effect rather than fire. Elegant, architectural, understated. For those who prefer refined sophistication over sparkle.

Radiant cut:

Combines brilliant and step cuts for exceptional fire. Bold, geometric, statement-making. Maximum sparkle in a distinctive shape.

Pear cut:

Teardrop silhouette with brilliant sparkle. Delicate and romantic. The point creates beautiful movement in earrings.

Which to choose:

If you're uncertain, round brilliant is the most versatile and timeless.

How do I choose the right moissanite stud earring size?

Consider three factors: lifestyle, face proportion, and personal preference.

Lifestyle:

Active or professional: Our round-cut moissanite earrings 0.3ct (4.5mm) is ideal. Comfortable, secure, appropriate for work and movement.
Statement preference: Explore our 0.5ct or 1ct options in oval, emerald, radiant, or pear cuts - each creates impact in its own way.
Daily comfort: Most find our round 4.5mm the sweet spot for all-day wear without weight or catching.

Face and ear proportion:

Petite features or small ears: Our round 0.3ct (4.5mm) or pear 0.5ct (4x6mm) work beautifully - refined without overwhelming delicate facial structures.
Average features: Round 4.5mm, or our 0.5ct options in oval (6x4mm), emerald (4.5x6mm), radiant (4.5x6mm), or pear (4x6mm). All flatter beautifully.
Bold features or larger ears: Our 1ct statement studs - oval (7x5mm), emerald (5x7mm), radiant (5x7mm), or pear (5x8mm) - carry presence without disappearing.

Personal style:

Classic everyday: Round 0.3ct (4.5mm) - the timeless size chosen for generations. Our signature everyday stud.
Statement occasions: Explore our 0.5ct and 1ct options across oval, emerald, radiant, and pear cuts for those moments when your earrings lead your look.

Our recommendation:

If this is your first pair of moissanite studs or you're unsure, choose our round 0.3ct (4.5mm). This size has remained the standard because it simply works - appropriate for every occasion, flattering on everyone, comfortable for all-day wear.

What size moissanite studs are best for everyday wear?

4.5mm (0.3ct) is the classic everyday size - refined, comfortable, and universally flattering.

Understanding Carat vs. Size:

It's important to know that 0.3ct refers to the weight of the moissanite stone, not its physical size. The actual diameter of our 0.3ct round studs is 4.5mm which is the most classic, timeless size for everyday stud earrings.

Why 4.5mm works for daily wear:

Professional settings: Visible without being distracting. Appropriate for conservative workplaces whilst still making a statement.

All-day comfort: Light enough to forget you're wearing them. No pulling on the earlobe, no catching on clothing or hair.

Versatile styling: Works with everything from casual weekend wear to formal evening occasions. You don't need to change your earrings based on the event.

Proportionate to the ear: 4.5mm sits in the sweet spot - substantial enough to catch light beautifully, small enough not to overwhelm the ear or face.

On larger sizes:

Our collection includes larger statement studs in various cuts:

Oval-Cut Studs - Available in 0.5ct (6x4mm) and 1ct (7x5mm). The elongated shape creates elegant visual length.

Emerald-Cut Studs - Available in 0.5ct (4.5mm x 6mm) and 1ct (5mm x 7mm). Step-cut facets create a sophisticated 'hall of mirrors' effect.

Radiant-Cut Studs - Available in 0.5ct (4.5mm x 6mm) and 1ct (5mm x 7mm). Combines brilliant and step cuts for maximum fire and geometric beauty.

Pear-Cut Studs - Available in 0.5ct (4mm x 6mm) and 1ct (5mm x 8mm). Delicate teardrop shape with brilliant sparkle.

These larger sizes (6-7mm) are stunning for evenings, special occasions, or those who want their earrings to be a focal point.

Our recommendation:

If this is your first pair of moissanite studs or you're unsure, choose our round 0.3ct (4.5mm). This size has remained the standard because it simply works - appropriate for every occasion, flattering on everyone, comfortable for all-day wear.

Occasions & Gifting:

Is moissanite jewellery a good gift?

Yes, particularly for milestone occasions that deserve something lasting.

When moissanite jewellery makes a beautiful gift:

Engagements - Marking the beginning.
Weddings - Worn on the day itself and every day after.
Anniversaries - Significant milestones (10th, 20th, 25th, 50th).
Birthdays - Milestone years where the gift should feel substantial.
Graduations - A transition piece professional enough for what comes next.
Achievements - Promotions, accomplishments, personal milestones.

"Just because" - Sometimes the best jewellery gifts have no occasion at all.

What to choose:

Tennis bracelets - Our most gifted piece. Works for every age, every style, every occasion.

Stud earrings - Classic and timeless. Appropriate for teenagers through to grandmothers.

Tennis necklaces - Elegant and considered. Shows thought and intention.

Eternity bands - Deeply symbolic. Perfect for weddings, anniversaries, or marking the birth of a child.

On presentation:

Every Bellari piece arrives in our signature velvet packaging, ribbon-tied and ready to gift. No additional wrapping needed.

Can moissanite jewellery be worn after the wedding day?

This is precisely why many choose moissanite for weddings, it's made to be worn daily, not stored away.

Why our pieces work beyond the wedding:

Our tennis necklaces, tennis bracelets, stud earrings, and eternity bands aren't designed for a single day. They're refined enough for weddings and versatile enough for everyday life after.

How customers wear them:

The tennis bracelet worn daily with everything from weekend casual to work meetings.

The stud earrings that become the pair you reach for every morning.

The eternity band that sits alongside your engagement ring as a constant reminder.

The tennis necklace reserved for dinners out, special occasions, and moments that call for something beautiful.

This is intentional:

We create pieces meant to be lived in, not relegated to special-occasion-only storage. The wedding is a beautiful beginning, not the only time your jewellery should see light.

Is moissanite suitable for engagement rings or special occasions?

Yes, moissanite jewellery is increasingly chosen for engagements, weddings, and milestone celebrations.

Why moissanite works for engagements:

Durability for daily wear. Brilliance that rivals or exceeds diamonds. Ethical sourcing with complete transparency.

The symbolism of commitment isn't tied to a specific stone, it's about the intention and meaning you assign to the piece.

What we offer:

Whilst Bellari specialises in eternity bands, tennis bracelets, tennis necklaces, and stud earrings rather than traditional solitaire engagement rings, many couples choose our pieces to mark proposals, anniversaries, and commitment milestones.

Our moissanite eternity rings are often worn as engagement bands or stacked with engagement rings as wedding bands.

For weddings:

Tennis necklaces and stud earrings are beautiful bridal jewellery choices—elegant enough for the ceremony, wearable long after.

Eternity bands serve as wedding bands, symbolising the continuous circle of commitment.

For anniversaries and milestones:

Tennis bracelets and tennis sets mark significant anniversaries, pieces that become part of your everyday life whilst carrying the memory of the celebration.