smart jewelry

To choose moissanite or not to choose moissanite – that is the question. But what is the answer? Well, it’s not as clear cut (excuse the semi-pun) as you would like. It requires a little research, which you should do before a major purchase anyway.

Here are some of the pros and cons, as listed on the Diamonds-are-Forever website:

The Pros and Cons of Moissanite – The Pro’s

• • Cost – The cost of Moissanite is roughly an eighth of the price of natural diamonds but is generally more expensive that Cubic Zirconia at one tenth of the price of natural diamonds

• • Appearance – Moissanite is so optically close to diamond that even some jewelers cannot tell the difference without the aid of various tests

• • Clarity – Moissanite is not separated into different grades of Clarity like diamonds because each stone must meet set specifications before being released to distributors. The set specifications of Moissanite are comparable to diamonds which have been graded VS1-VS2 on the Diamond Clarity Chart

• • Inclusions / Flaws – Manufactured to appear more like diamonds, Moissanite gemstones have inclusions which is a plus-point when compared to the flawless Cubic Zirconia – the growing process produces tiny, unnatural, white, ribbon-like inclusions

• • Moissanite stones are equivalent to the H – J grades in the white Diamond Color scale. Moissanite is not as white-white like the Cubic Zirconia (which is equivalent to a perfect “D” and therefore less believable imitation, as white-white color diamonds are extremely rare.

• • Hardness – Hardness denotes resistance to scratching as opposed to Toughness which relates to the ability to resist breakage from falls or impacts. Moissanite is much harder than most natural gems, and Cubic Zirconia, at about 9.5 on the Mohs scale, however it is nowhere near as hard as a diamond at about 10.0 on the Mohs scale

• • Toughness – Moissanite is tougher than diamond because it has no natural fractures that can crack if the stone is subjected to an impact of some kind.

• • Moissanite has a slightly higher index of refraction (brilliance) and much greater dispersion (fire) than diamond. It retains its fire if it gets dirty, oily, or smudged, whereas Cubic Zirconia looks very dull when dirty. The excess fire is seen as a ‘pro’ by some and a ‘con’ by others

Moissanite – The Con’s

• • Investment – Jewelry containing synthetic gemstones like Moissanite are not a good investment – they do not hold their price.

• • Color – Can have a slight yellowish / greenish tint which becomes more noticeable with increasing gem sizes.

• • Fluorescence – An undesirable hazy effect that causes them to appear slightly green or yellow. The effect  of fluorescence on Moissanite is much greater under natural light or in sunlight.
    

• • Moissanite is highly birefringent (a birefringent crystal splits a light beam into two) which is a desirable quality in some optical applications, but is not desirable in gemstones. Moissanite jewels are therefore cut along the optic axis of the crystal to minimize birefringent effects

• • Fire – Has more ‘fire’ or brilliance producing a more synthetic effect. The high dispersion of 0.11 is apparent in Moissanite (nearly 2.5 times greater than that of diamond) and readily distinguishes it from diamond with a dispersion of 0.04 which is virtually unnoticed. The excess fire is sometimes considered cheap and fake looking.

• • Hardness – Diamonds are harder than Moissanite  which is 9.5 on the Mohs scale compared to a diamond at about 10.0 on the Mohs scale

• • Inclusions / Flaws – Manufactured to appear more like diamonds, Moissanite gemstones have inclusions. Natural flaws are absent in Moissanite replaced instead by tiny, unnatural, white, ribbon-like structures that are a result of the growing process.

• • Rarity – Moissanite is not rare and can be made quickly and in vast quantities, whereas natural diamonds take millions of years to form.

• • Symbolic Value – Diamonds have long symbolised love and purity – Moissanite has no such symbolic value yet.

Because our moissanite comes from Charles and Colvard, the creators and top manufacturers with the highest standards in moissanite, you can be assured your choice is a smart one. But again, research is key. A jewelry purchase is for life, and we understand that.

De Beers, the world’s leading diamond producer, announced that rough sales in the first half of the year dropped some 57%, to $1.4 billion, 57 per cent lower than the first half of 2008. Net earnings were $3 million for the first half of 2009, compared to $316 million, a 99% drop. That’s right – a 99% drop.

De Beers diamond production fell dramatically as well. Production at its mines was 73 percent lower in the first half of 2009, with a more than 91 percent drop in  the first quarter, the result of production holidays at De Beers’ mines in Canada and Africa. The company anticipates that carat production for 2009 will be half that of 2008.

So what does this all mean to you, the consumer? During difficult economic times, diamond sales drop, for obvious reasons. Who can buy a diamond necklace when your behind on your bills?

But it doesn’t mean that you have to do without either. Diamond alternatives, like moissanite and Gemesis, continue to forge ahead, as more eco-savvy and smart shoppers opt for jewelry that fits their budget and their conscience.

Source: JCKOnline

Here’s a sampling of some of our finest moissanite products:

Custom Designed Cushion Cut Moissanite And Pave’ Diamond Ring

Stunning and unique custom designed platinum ring with a 5.0ct (dia equiv) Charles and colvard created cushion cut moissanite and approx. 1.0ct t.w. round pave’ diamonds.

Metal: Platinum
Ring Size: 4 – 8

Style 3366M

Three Stone Moissanite And Ruby Ring

One of a kind 9.25ct (dia equiv) radiant cut moissanite and two genuine recrystalized trillion cut rubies weighing 4.0ct in total, set into a hand made platinum three stone ring with hand applied platinum scrolls.

Metal: Platinum
Stone size: 9.25ct
Ring size: 4 – 8
Call For Pricing

Style 3364M

Oval Shaped Moissanite Dangle Earrings

Custom made 15.50ct t.w. (dia equiva) oval cut moissanite and 3/4ct t.w. (dia equiv) bezel set round moissanite dangle earrings. This one of a kind piece is hand made and has hand applied filigree engraving and scroll work.

Metal: Platinum
Stone size: 15.66ct t.w.
Call For Pricing

Oh, the big rock! Many of us think a big, stunning diamond is the only way to go. But is it right for you? Let’s address the “bigger is better” myth for a second:

1. Consider your personality. Are you an extroverted type? Do you really like the “wow” factor? Then maybe a big diamond (or moissanite or Gemesis) is perfect for you, so you can dazzle with the best of them.

2. Consider your style. Are you an understated dresser? Or do your fashion choices scream, “Look at me!” A ring will be something you’ll be wearing for a long, long time. While a big ring looks great while showing it off to friends, it may not be appropriate for the long haul.

3. Quality counts for me than size. There are many large stones out there that have no life to them. Or they may be poorly cut. Or have visible inclusions. A subtle, smaller gem may speak more loudly than a big, ol rock.

4. Setting counts more. You can often have a big diamond feel on an appropriate setting. Diamond shapes such as marquise, pear shapes and oval can exude a larger feel, especially when set properly.

5. Diamond Alternatives. If you simply must have that big experience (but don’t have such a big budget to match it), you’ve never been luckier than now. There are fantastic alternative such as moissanite and Gemesis that are affordable and “wow”able!

All of these factors – and more – come into play when purchasing a piece of jewelry. Big gems may impress…but they may not be right for you. Or perhaps you can have a big rock experience based on a smart cut and setting choice. Bottom line: wowing people is great but a ring needs to match you and your soul. Then it’s a big ring, no matter what!

Here’s a ring of ours, where the simplicity and clean cut speak volumes:

Style 9915-7.5mm

Round Solitaire Engagement Ring With Pave Diamonds

Four prong solitaire engagement ring with 1/10ct t.w. pave’ diamonds. Fits an 7.5mm round center stone. (setting only, does not include center stone)

As wedding budgets continue to shrink and extraneous gift items become, well, extraneous, moissanite stands out as a viable, politically savvy alternative for jewelry choices as sales for this diamond alternative continue to increase amidst an ailing market.

One of the biggest pros, obviously, is the cost. Not only is moissanite less expensive than a diamond but more durable. It also has more “fire” – a term to describe the radiance and refractive quality of a gem.

Take a look at the example below:

                             Moissanite (on the left) with 2½ times more fire than diamond

Moissanite is also lacking in the stigma of other diamond alternatives. As the diamond mining process is experiencing more public scrutiny because of its political and ecological ramifications, moissanite is becoming a smart, politically correct alternative.

In other words, a moissanite choice isn’t simply based on affordability but consciousness.

Take a look at our vast array of Joseph Schubach Jewelers moissanite products. If you can’t find what you are looking for, we’ll be happy to create it.

At Joseph Schubach Jewelers, we’re more than just jewelers, we’re artists!

Our Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace

                                

A vintage
style pendant with round brilliant stones set on an 18"
cable chain.

A Timeless Heirloom for Any Occasion

Old is new. You read that right. Jewelry
that hearkens back to yesteryear is all the rage right now. Why? Well, antique jewelry has a classic, timeless
look to it and in these times, people want to make
purchases that are smart, “trend proof" and make them feel terrific!

That’s
why we’re particularly pleased to spotlight our Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace
this week. This piece reflects an aura of years past but with a truly
contemporary dazzle. And, it's a Joseph Schubach Jewelers DIY (Dream it Yourself) Piece where you dream the design and you set the price!

That's
right, you set the price. All DIY pieces can be designed to fit any
budget and are made to your specifications. You choose the metal, the
accent stones and the center stone. We’ll then craft your dream to your specifications using quality materials and expert craftsmanship for an heirloom that's guaranteed to be an all-time classic in your collection!

This version of the Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace boasts
a 1/3 ct center stone surrounded by 14 round brilliant cut accent
stones. It is a dainty and delicate piece, measuring approximately 3/8"
in diameter yet solid enough to last a lifetime since the setting is a
quality, sturdy cast piece, not a thin, lightweight stamped piece. The
cable chain slides directly through the setting so the pendant will
always sit straight in an optimal position on your neckline without
moving up or down the chain. The 18" cable chain is the ideal length
for most women to showcase a dangling pendant (longer or shorter chains
are also available, just call for details.) The cable chain is very
wearable and solidly made. It will not kink or bend and easily flows
around the curves of your neck and neckline. This pendant is very
versatile and can be dressed up for more formal occasions or dressed
down to be worn every day with a pair of jeans. It is one of the basics
for every woman's jewelry wardrobe. 

Choose between:

•  The Metal: 14
  karat, 18 karat or platinum

• The Side
  Stones: natural diamonds, moissanite, ruby, sapphire or you choose!

• The Center
  Stone: Whatever you dream, from ruby to sapphire, from natural diamond to clarity enhance diamond, from ______ to
  ______.

The
possibilities are endless since there are literally thousands of ways
to make this piece truly yours. You can alternate pave set sapphires
and diamonds or pave set rubies and diamonds around a white diamond. Or
set a fancy color Gemesis cultured diamond in the center with natural
white accent diamonds surrounding it. Or surround your birthstone with
pave set diamonds.

Whatever you dream, we can create.

The Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace
is one of our favorite signature pieces. The team at Joseph Schubach
Jewelers believes this piece has a genuine personality that can be felt simply by holding it.

Here’s
a few words from a client who chose this piece with blue
sapphire side stones:

“The magic begins when I
put on this necklace. I swear, it changes my mood! It’s so
elegant and timeless. I’ve worn it with a cocktail dress and
I’ve worn it with jeans and a white blouse. And every time I
wear it – and I do mean every time – someone comments on
it. People are just naturally drawn to it. I have lots of jewelry but
this is one piece that truly feels like mine, like it represents me.
It’s a very personal piece of jewelry.”

You
couldn’t ask for a better description of a signature piece –
jewelry that reflects and defines you. The Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace is
truly a piece with personality – a signature piece within your
reach.

Perhaps its slightly vintage feel
adds to its appeal. As we saw from the Oscars this year, old is new
(or “Old is the new new!) Fred Leighton’s classic pieces
adorned many a star on the red carpet this year:

Alicia Keys 19th-century diamond
leaf pendant earrings
 by Fred Leighton

Mamma Mia star, Amada Seyfried
with a similar vintage
look from the Fred Leighton treasure chest

Cate Blanchett epitomizes the "return to classic" trend
in an pendant necklace featuring more than 100 carats
of rose-cut diamonds

Now while these vintage treasures
dazzle on the red carpet, our The Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace adds a certain sparkle
to your everyday. You get a little bit of that “statement
necklace” feel without the “style overload”
designed for over-the-top events such as the Oscars!

The
biggest trend in jewelry during these tough economic times is wise,
timeless choices. Women don’t want to forsake their jewelry
purchases but also need to choose something lasting with classic
appeal. This The Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace fits the bill
perfectly. Not only is the look of our The Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace
decidedly eternal,
but you can choose the stones or choose your price, making it
accessible as well!

If
budget is a real issue for you, then you can have the same classic
appeal of the The Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace for
a fraction of the price, if you choose moissanite or clarity enhanced diamond as your main pendant
stone.

If you’re new to the wonders
of moissanite and clarity enhanced diamonds, here’s a quick lesson:

Moissanite and clarity enhance diamonds have seen rising sales
despite a sagging economy…and for good reason. They're
durable, dazzling and decidedly doable, price-wise.

What is moissanite exactly?
Moissanite is the best diamond alternative available. It is a lab-created gemstone that reproduces (and in
some cases exceeds) the fire and brilliance of diamonds. Moissanite
is not a “fake diamond” in the true sense of the term.
It’s a diamond replicate that is becoming increasingly popular
because of its powerful, enduring presence. Moissanite
possesses a hardness of 9 1/4 on the Mohs’ scale, compared to
diamonds, which rates 10 so it wears extremely well. Moissanite also has a refractive index that
is higher and closer to diamonds than cubic zirconia. Its high
thermal conductivity transmits the same readings as a diamond on
standard heat conductivity-based diamond testers so it tests positive on some diamond testers. In a nutshell,
moissanite is often indiscernible from a diamond, even by a
professionally trained eye. For additional moissanite information, click here .

Another
option is clarity enhanced diamonds which are natural diamonds
enhanced to show their natural vibrant beauty at 1/3 less than the
price of a comparable, non enhanced diamond. CE diamonds are natural
diamonds with a flaw that reaches the surface. That flaw is then
seamlessly filled and completely hidden using century old techniques
with the final product that looks like a more expensive, better
quality diamond. For additional information on clarity enhanced diamonds, click here .

If
there’s one jewelry purchase to make this year, it’s our The Classic Sweetheart Pave Necklace. We
guarantee classic, long-standing style with personality and a price
you can afford.

Make a statement for yourself this year. You’re
worth it!

And
please check us out on Facebook
and Twitter (joeschubach). We’d love to network with you!