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Archive for the ‘Moissanite Engagement Rings’ Category

Moissanite versus Cubic Zirconia

September 1, 2010

Moissanite is often unfairly compared with cubic zironia. While cubic zirconia still remains the most popular diamond simulant, moissanite, a relative “newbie” to the market, is gaining ground quickly.

Cubic zirconia is a colorless, lab grown diamond simulan while moissanite is more durable and provides more brilliance.

According to The Moissanite Buyers Guide:

Unlike cubic zirconia, moissanite jewels are doubly refractive. This means that light is bent twice as it passes through the moissanite jewel. This double refraction is directly responsible for moissanite’s superior brilliance. You can see this with a 10x loupe. Viewing through the crown or pavilion facets is recommended. Do not look directly through the table of a moissanite stone; the double refraction is less apparent as seen from this angle.

Comparison Chart: Beauty, Durability, Specific Gravity

	BEAUTY			DURABILITY		SPECIFIC GRAVITY
	BRILLIANCE Refractive Index	FIRE Dispersion	LUSTER	HARDNESS Mohs	TOUGHNESS
Moissanite	2.65-2.69	0.104	20.4%	9.25	excellent	3.21
(CZ) Cubic Zirconia	2.15	0.060	13.6%	8.50	good	5.80

So if you’re searching for that perfect engagement ring that’s both eco-friendly and still maintains the qualities of a natural diamond, it might be time to give moissanite a try. Because its priced so much better than a mined diamond, you just opened up the possiblities to all sorts of amazing rings, like the one below:

Style 9501M

Tension Set Engagement Ring With Side Diamonds

Tension set ring with .70ct t.w. natural side diamonds (setting only, does not include center stone)

Posted in Moissanite Engagement Rings

Picking an Eco-friendly Engagement Ring

August 23, 2010

A client came to us with a question:

“My girlfriend works for an ecological organization. During our last few years together, I’ve learned about the hazards of diamond mining. I want to propose to her on the holiday but I need some suggestions as to a diamond alternative.” – Freddie G., Phoenix

Freddie, you asked the right company. Joseph Schubach Jewelers prides itself in it’s eco-friendly options. Top of the list would be moissanite. According to Charles & Colvard:

Moissanite, also known by its chemical name, silicon carbide (SiC), is a naturally occurring mineral found in very limited quantities or as minute particles in the earth. The rarity of natural moissanite crystals large enough for jewelry prohibits their use.

For years, scientists tried to re-create this extraordinarily brilliant material. Only recently, through the power of advanced technology, Charles & Colvard developed a way to produce in a laboratory, large gem-quality crystals which can be faceted into near-colorless jewels with incomparable fire and brilliance.

So these lab-produced gems have the same physical, chemical and optical characteristics as their natural counterparts. Often trained gemologists can’t tell the difference. These “synthetics” are distinguished from “simulants,” like glass or cubic zirconium.

As you can see, an option like moissanite is a smart choice for ecologically minded people. It is in fact a diamond, it’s simply produced in a lab.

Tension Set Engagement Ring With A Round Moissanite And Side Diamond

Posted in Moissanite Engagement Rings

How to Propose with Moissanite

June 16, 2010

Moissanite is not the same as a naturally-mined diamond. It is a synthetic, lab-created diamond and not considered a fake. This differentiation is important to remember.

Listen, most of us would love nothing more than to give a big rock to our girl for that on-one-knee proposal. But most of us realize that’s financially difficult if not downright impossible.

So how do you broach the topic of buying a moissanite engagement ring with your wife-to-be?

1. Be honest. Don’t tell her its a natural diamond when it’s not. Trust us on this one – it could get you into some serious hot water later on, if she bothers to do some research.

2. Discuss your finances openly. Many feel that talking about the financial aspects of engagement is somehow…not romantic. Well, it may not be wine and roses, but it’s real. The way you handle finances together helps you understand very important lessons about one another. Your partner will respect that you honor her opinion and that you can discuss matters of import.

3. Visit a jeweler. Remember, a qualified jeweler can do a lot of the hard work for you!  He or she will detail the pros and cons of purchasing quality moissanite. The pros include a gem that is as durable and brilliant as a naturally mined diamond, the reminder that moissanite is in fact a diamond and that moissanite is an ecologically-sound and long-lasting alternative.

4. The rock size just grew! That’s right – all of a sudden a bigger stone is a possibility, which for many women is an exciting proposition. By choosing moissanite, shopping for  engagement ring can include a range of beautiful rings with a real “wow” factor.

5. Offer the option of an upgrade in the future. If you’re planning a surprise engagement, go for it! You can explain to her later that you’ve chosen moissanite for the reasons mentioned and if she’s unhappy with it, you can plan an upgrade when finances allow. Chances are, she’ll grow attached to her ring just the way it is…because it came from you. Really, isn’t that the most important part?

The idea here is to embrace the idea of buying moissanite. There’s no need to hide it, like a secret. In a day when naturally-mined diamonds are becoming a questionable prospect ecologically (mining is continuing to damage the earth and cause political disruption), moissanite is a smart, informed choice you can be proud of.

Style 9937-6.5mm

Contemporary Solitaire Engagement Ring

Contemporary solitaire engagement ring. Fits a 6.5mm round stone. (setting only, does not included center stone)

Posted in Moissanite Engagement Rings

“I think the diamond industry would be quaking”

May 21, 2010

(Another great testimonial for moissanite)

Hi Beth,
I just wanted to let you know that I got my ring yesterday and i LOVE
it. I was a little bit wary of the green/grey cast that folks say Moissanite
has, but I haven’t seen it in this stone. Even in a dark room it looks so
brilliant! Your service was great and I really could not be happier. If
people understood how beautiful Moissanite was, I think the diamond industry
would be quaking, unfortunately people are too sucked into the marketing of
a diamond. Also, wanted to let you know I’ve sent my best friend CeCe
Hernandez your way so be super nice to her! Again, thank you SO much. Your
customer service was superior to the other sites I visited and I am truly a
satisfied customer.

Thanks,
A

Posted in Custom Moissanite Jewelry, Customer Testimonials, General Moissanite Info, Moissanite Engagement Rings

Moissanite Testimonial – We Couldn’t Have Said It Any Better!

May 19, 2010

(regarding a custom moissanite engagement ring)

Hi Beth,

I wanted to give you an update.  I got engaged recently and my fiancee
absolutely loves the ring.  There’s just one problem — her co-workers
are a little jealous!  The moissanite is so sparkly and the ring looks
a little too good.

We decided to go to the mall to see what kind of wedding band would
look nice with it.  In the first store we went to, the woman asked if
she could clean the ring.  We said sure and we were both nervous that
somehow the woman would know it wasn’t diamond and would say something
but she didn’t say anything or seem suspicious.  At the next store,
which even used to sell moissanite, the employee was taken aback when
he saw the ring and said “oh, wow!”  He put a normal diamond wedding
band next to it, but it looked dull in comparison so he steered us
toward their most expensive wedding bands.  We took the ring to
Tiffany’s and they asked us if it was a Tiffany Novo ring.  The only
diamond ring we saw that could compare to the moissanite was an actual
Hearts on Fire.  I guess it’s just the way they cut it.  Nobody had
any idea that her ring was anything other than a very high quality
diamond ring.

We’re in the process of choosing a wedding band to go with it and
we’re planning on having either pink moissanite or pink sapphire in
it. . . .

A

Posted in Custom Jewelry Designs, Custom Moissanite Jewelry, Customer Testimonials, Moissanite Engagement Rings

Rose Gold Version of style #10137

April 21, 2010

We just received an email from our goldsmith of a piece that’s going out today. This ring was made in 14kt rose gold, and our goldsmith thought it was so pretty she sent over a quick picture for us to see.  We have to agree, it’s absolutely gorgeous in rose gold! It’s our style number 10137, which you can see here.

Posted in Diamond Engagement Rings, Fashion trends, Metals, Moissanite Engagement Rings

Custom Claddagh Engagement Ring and Testimonial!

March 14, 2010

I was able to pick up the rings from Fedex this afternoon, but was only able to really get a chance to look at them now. They both look spectacular! It really came out better than I could have hoped for! I think the ruby heart surrounding the pink center stone really makes a statement, and is certainly something I’ve never seen before! No one could say no to a ring like that! I also love how well the wedding band fits in with the engagement ring. It really fits together perfectly, just like they were made to. Certainly a sign of an excellent craftsman! Thank you for all your help and for putting up with me! I will be sure to tell you how and when the proposal goes down (haven’t quite decided on details just yet) but I know I will certainly be calling on you again for pieces in the future. Of that I am sure!

Thank You so very, very much!

For more custom ideas visit our Custom Jewelry Design page.

Posted in Custom Jewelry Designs, Custom Moissanite Jewelry, Customer Testimonials, Diamond Engagement Rings, Moissanite Engagement Rings

Another Moissanite Testimonial – However, not from one of our customers!

February 25, 2010

We ran across this great testimonial on moissanite on another blog. It’s so good we had to share it with you on ours. Let us know what you think.

Recently I gave my now fiancée a 4 carat Round Brilliant cut synthetic diamond in a striking 14K gold filigree solitaire ring which she has been showing off regularly. This ring has been examined and studied by friends and family in awe at its perfection. She has also been flaunting  it when we go to dine out, at her job, while at the mall, nightclubs, various special occasions, and many other public places that its in can constantly be under examination. A couple of times she was even stopped walking on the street or in a store by strangers to compliment her on how beautiful it is. An incredible amount of people have had a chance to analyze and dissect it, and each is left astonishment at how beautiful it is. However, still after such examination and seeing how big and beautiful it is, no one has asked if it’s real or fake! (read the entire post here)

Posted in Customer Testimonials, General Moissanite Info, Moissanite Engagement Rings

Custom Engagement Rings – Dare to be Different

February 17, 2010

Custom designed engagement rings means the love of your life will receive a ring especially made with her in mind. Every choice you make reflects the love that you feel. The beauty of custom designing your own engagment ring? You have total creative freedom!

Working closely with the designers at Joseph Schubach Jewelers, you can create a custom engagement ring that’s a perfect fit in style, stone and price. Featuring endless possibilities, our exquisite diamond and moissanite engagement rings can be customized in a range of ways. Some of our most popular options include:

• Moissanite engagement rings. Our exquisite moissanite engagement rings sparkle like diamonds but cost just a fraction of the price. Ranging from virtually colorless to raspberry pink, our moissanite engagement rings offer size, quality and style that’s both stunning and affordable. Choose from classic, affordable styles like solitaire engagement rings, or ask us about a custom moissanite ring.

• Choose a pave diamond ring. Derived from the word “pavement,” pave diamond rings are made using small cobblestones of tiny diamond clusters to create rings that appear to be paved in glistening diamonds.
• An unexpected setting. Although engagement rings are traditionally set in gold or platinum, palladium engagement rings offer a modern, affordable alternative that’s equally lovely. This white, hypo-allergenic, lightweight and durable setting provides the perfect shimmering canvas on which diamonds and moissanite stones can truly sparkle.
• Unique side stones. Whether you select a diamond or moissanite engagement ring, you can customize her ring using side stones in standout shades. At Joseph Schubach Jewelers, you’ll find moissanite in champagne and raspberry pink, as well as Gemesis diamonds in a beautiful array of hues – even rubies or sapphires. Whatever her signature color or favorite gem may be, you can accent her engagement ring with it for a singularly stunning look.
• Specially cut stones. Round and princess-cut stones are popular choices for diamond and moissanite engagement rings, but with our experts by your side you won’t have to be limited by the shapes you know or see in the case. From the timeless Asscher cut to the playful brilliance of a heart-shaped stone, we can help you create the perfect ring for the woman you love.

So break the mold. Dare to be different. You’ll offer a ring that has your love built right into it!

Style 6656M

Round Pave’ Diamond Ring

Beautiful hand engraved pave’ diamond ring with a round  center stone and four rows of pave diamonds weighing approximately .55ct in total. Can accommodate a center stone size of 2ct+ and is shown with a 4ct.

Posted in Diamond Engagement Rings, Moissanite Engagement Rings

Brides and Grooms Building Rings Together

February 16, 2010

Nowadays, engagement rings and wedding bands are an investment for couples. Some don’t feel comfortable just leaving it up to chance or the groom’s ability to choose the right piece of  jewelry (nothing personal guys – but you don’t always know best!)

Today’s bride is taking part in the process of choosing or often creating her own engagement ring or wedding band. It takes the guesswork out and opens the door for countless possibilities.

The couple can decide on the materials use in the ring’s creation, whether it’s naturally-mined diamonds or diamond alternatives such as moissanite or cubic zirconia. Metals such as platinum or silver or gold are decided upon mutually as well.

Some may think that building an engagement ring takes the mystery or fun out. Others really like working together to come up with an engagement ring that reflects both parties’ personalities.

If you’re unsure how to custom design or semi-custom design your own engagement ring, contact us. It’s our speciality and we’d be happy to walk you through the process.

Style 8714M

Hand Made Cushion Cut Ring With Pave’ Diamonds

Custom made fashion ring featuring a cushion cut center stone and 1/3ct t.w. pave’ side diamonds with a bezel set diamond on each end. This piece is hand made and has hand applied filigree engraving and scroll work on two sides, approximately 5mm wide at the top. Also made to accommodate round, cushion & princess center stones starting at 2.0ct and shown with a 2 1/2ct.

Posted in Diamond Engagement Rings, Moissanite Engagement Rings, Semi-Custom Jewelry, Wedding bands