Moissanite, a gemstone born from the stars, is renowned for its exceptional durability and incomparable brilliance. This remarkable gemstone, discovered in 1893 in a meteor crater by Dr. Henri Moissan, is famed for its hardness, second only to diamond, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This near-impenetrable characteristic means your Moissanite gemstones are incredibly resistant to scratches and abrasions, able to withstand everyday wear while maintaining their fiery sparkle. More interestingly, Moissanite's refractive index ranges from 2.65 to 2.69, surpassing all other popular gemstones, endowing it with an unrivalled rainbow sparkle. This double refraction phenomenon makes light bend and split inside the gemstone, resulting in a dazzling array of colors when seen from different angles.
Caring for your Moissanite jewelry involves a few simple yet crucial steps. Regular cleaning is key to maintain its radiant glow. Use a soft, non-metallic brush and a solution of warm water and mild dish soap to gently scrub your Moissanite. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and high heat during cleaning as it can potentially alter the stone's color. When it comes to storage, separate your Moissanite pieces to prevent them from scratching other softer gemstones. Consider using a jewelry box with individual padded slots or soft pouches for each piece.
Moreover, despite its hardness, it's essential to protect your Moissanite from hard knocks and sudden temperature changes which could cause damage. Take your jewelry off before engaging in rigorous activities and visit a professional jeweler once a year for a thorough inspection and cleaning. With these practical measures, you can ensure that your Moissanite gemstones will maintain their striking brilliance and charisma for many generations to come.