Moissanite is a gemstone that is often used as an alternative to diamonds. It is made up of silicon carbide, the same material that makes up diamonds, but it is formed under different conditions. Diamonds are formed deep underground under high pressure and temperature, while moissanite is formed in meteorite impacts or in certain types of metamorphic rocks.
A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has found that moissanite from metamorphic rocks in Bulgaria is signifcantly different from moissanite from other sources. The Bulgarian moissanite has a higher concentration of nitrogen impurities, which gives it a yellow or brown color. It also has a lower refractive index, which means that it does not sparkle as much as other types of moissanite.
The study’s fndings suggest that there may be more than one type of moissanite. This could have implications for the jewelry industry, as it could mean that there is a market for moissanite with different colors and properties. It could also lead to new research into the formation and properties of moissanite.
Here are some additional details about the study:
The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Vienna in Austria and the University of Sofa in Bulgaria.
The researchers analyzed moissanite crystals from metamorphic rocks in Bulgaria. They found that the Bulgarian moissanite has a higher concentration of nitrogen impurities than moissanite from other sources.
The nitrogen impurities give the Bulgarian moissanite a yellow or brown color.
The Bulgarian moissanite also has a lower refractive index than other types of moissanite.
The study’s fndings suggest that there may be more than one type of moissanite. This could have implications for the jewelry industry, as it could mean that there is a market for moissanite with different colors and properties.
It could also lead to new research into the formation and properties of moissanite.
The study’s fndings could also have implications for the way that moissanite is graded. Currently, moissanite is graded based on its color, clarity, and cut. However, the study’s fndings suggest that nitrogen concentration and refractive index should also be considered when grading moissanite.
This could lead to a more accurate and consistent grading system for moissanite, which would be benefcial for both consumers and jewelers.
Overall, the study’s fndings suggest that there is more to moissanite than meets the eye. There may be more than one type of moissanite, and each type may have its own unique properties. This could lead to new applications for moissanite in the jewelry industry and beyond.
