In the market, there are two kinds of gemstones, one is moissanite and the other is zircon. It is said that these two gemstones are alternatives to diamonds because they are much cheaper than diamonds.
So, what is the difference between moissanite and zircon? If it is worn as jewelry, which gemstone is better to choose?
In the domestic market, there are two kinds of gemstones, one is moissanite and the other is zircon. It is said that these two gemstones are alternatives to diamonds because they are much cheaper than diamonds.
So, what is the difference between moissanite and zircon? If it is worn as jewelry, which gemstone is better to choose?
In the final analysis, the difference between the two lies in their different chemical compositions, which results in different physical properties, hardness, refractive index, dispersion rate, etc.
chemical composition
The composition of the two is different, that is, they are composed of different elements.
1. The main chemical component of moissanite: silicon carbide
Synthetic Moissanite, also known as synthetic moissanite or synthetic moissanite (chemical composition SiC), belongs to the hexagonal crystal system and has the same diamond luster as diamonds, with stronger fire.
2. The main chemical composition of zircon: zirconium silicate
Zircon (English name: zircon) is a silicate mineral with a chemical composition of Zr[SiO₄] and belongs to the tetragonal crystal system. Under normal pressure, the stable crystal of zirconium dioxide is monoclinic. Therefore, in the process of synthesizing cubic zirconia, it is necessary to add a metal oxide (usually yttrium oxide or yttrium oxide) with a molecular weight of 10 to 15%. calcium oxide) as a stabilizer. Different production methods will add different amounts of stabilizers, so the physical and optical properties of cubic zirconia will be different.
1. Refractive index
The refractive index of moissanite is 2.65-2.69, which exceeds that of diamond. It has birefringence and stronger fire.
The refractive index of synthetic zircon is 2.17, which is still different from diamond and moissanite.
2. Dispersion rate
The dispersion rate of moissanite is 0.104, which also exceeds diamonds in this aspect.
The dispersion rate of zircon is 0.039, which is not as good as diamond and moissanite.
3. Hardness
Moissanite has a Mohs hardness of 9.25, which is the second hardest gemstone after diamond. The Mohs hardness of zircon is 7.5-8, and its biggest flaw is its lack of hardness.
Because of the jewelry you wear daily, collisions in life are inevitable. If the hardness is not enough, it will inevitably be scratched. Even if you make it perfect, you cannot guarantee that others or special circumstances will encounter your zircon. jewelry.
Therefore, zircon can be worn for a specific period of time, but it is not suitable for long-term wear, such as dance parties and other occasions, otherwise it is likely to be scratched. There is no problem with moissanite in daily wear. As long as it is not placed together with diamonds, it is basically fine.
Therefore, if it is worn as jewelry, moissanite is more suitable. It has high cost performance, high hardness, better fire color, can be worn for a longer time, and the luster and brightness will be long-lasting.
