Moissanite has become one of the most searched gemstones in fine jewelry — and for first-time buyers, the options can feel overwhelming. This guide answers every question you need before you buy your first moissanite piece.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a lab-grown gemstone made of silicon carbide. It was first discovered in a meteorite crater in 1893 by chemist Henri Moissan. Every moissanite sold in fine jewelry today is entirely laboratory-created — making it eco-friendly, conflict-free, and consistent in quality.
At Montier, every stone is D color and VVS1 clarity — the highest grade available, completely colorless with no inclusions visible even under 10x magnification.
How Does Moissanite Compare to Diamond?
Moissanite is not a diamond — it's a distinct gemstone with its own identity. But here's what makes it exceptional:
- Brilliance: Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65–2.69, compared to diamond's 2.42. More fire, more sparkle.
- Hardness: 9.25 on the Mohs scale, compared to diamond's 10 — extremely scratch-resistant and built for everyday wear.
- Price: Dramatically more affordable — typically 90% less than a comparable diamond.
- Ethics: 100% lab-grown, no mining required.
For the full comparison, see our Moissanite vs Diamond honest comparison, or explore how moissanite compares to lab-grown diamonds and cubic zirconia.
Understanding Moissanite Quality: Color and Clarity
Color Grades
- D, E, F = Colorless — no visible tint, even in direct light
- G, H, I = Near-colorless
- J and below = Visible warmth or yellow tint
All Montier stones are D color — the best grade available.
Clarity Grades
- VVS1, VVS2 = No inclusions visible without magnification
- VS1, VS2 = Very slightly included
- SI and below = Inclusions may be visible to the naked eye
Montier uses VVS1 clarity in every piece — the clearest stones in the grade.
What Is 14K Gold PVD Over Sterling Silver?
All Montier jewelry features 14K Gold PVD plating over 925 Sterling Silver. This means a real 925 sterling silver base — solid and durable — with a thick layer of 14K gold applied through Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), a process that creates a harder, more durable finish than traditional gold electroplating. The result is the look and weight of gold jewelry with superior tarnish resistance.
Which Moissanite Jewelry Should You Start With?
For Her
- A tennis bracelet — classic, wearable every day, endlessly versatile. Read our Moissanite Tennis Bracelet Guide for help choosing.
- A moissanite ring — a striking statement for everyday wear or special occasions. Our Moissanite Engagement Rings guide covers styles and settings.
- A delicate pendant or moissanite chain — perfect as a gift or personal piece.
- Moissanite earrings — studs, hoops, and dangles that dress up or down effortlessly. See our Moissanite Earrings Guide for the full breakdown.
For Him
- A tennis chain — maximum impact, easy to style. See our Tennis Chain Guide for sizing and styling tips, or the Iced Out Real Gold Chains Guide for bolder picks.
- Iced-out rings — bold and eye-catching. See the Complete Men's Guide for full inspiration.
As a Gift
Check our Moissanite Gift Guide for curated picks at every price point, or the Holiday Gift Guide 2026 for seasonal inspiration.
Does Moissanite Last?
Yes. With a Mohs hardness of 9.25, moissanite is one of the most durable gemstones available. It won't scratch, chip, or lose brilliance over time. The PVD gold coating on Montier pieces is significantly more durable than standard electroplating — making every piece a long-lasting addition to your collection.
How to Care for Your Moissanite
Moissanite is low-maintenance. Clean with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Store each piece separately to prevent scratching. For detailed instructions, see How to Clean and Care for Moissanite Jewelry.
Common Questions from First-Time Buyers
Will people know it's not a diamond?
Only a trained gemologist with specialized equipment can distinguish moissanite from diamond. To the naked eye, D color VVS1 moissanite is indistinguishable. Read more: Does Moissanite Pass a Diamond Tester?
Is moissanite worth buying?
It depends on your priorities. If you want maximum brilliance, durability, and ethical sourcing at a fraction of the diamond price — moissanite is an exceptional choice. For a detailed breakdown, see Is Moissanite a Good Investment?
How is moissanite made?
Every moissanite stone begins as raw silicon carbide in a laboratory, grown using a controlled thermal process that replicates conditions found deep in the Earth. For the full story, read How Moissanite Is Made.
Ready to Shop?
Browse the full Montier collection at montierjewelryofficial.com. Every piece includes D color VVS1 moissanite set in 14K Gold PVD over 925 Sterling Silver — the highest quality at an honest price.