Helzberg Diamonds Jewelry

When it comes to lab diamonds, synthetic diamonds look like natural-occurring diamonds, but are actually made in a laboratory setting. There are two names that often come up: Charles and Colvard. Charles and Colvard is the company that holds the exclusive patent on creating a popular type of lab diamonds known as moissanite.

What is moissanite?

Moissanite is actually a gemstone made of silicon carbide crystals. The first such material was found in a meteorite in Arizona by a chemist named Henri Moissan. The brilliant gems were later named after Mr. Moissan. But since they were beautiful and nearly impossible to find on earth, scientists set out to make their own version of the material in the laboratory setting. It took nearly 100 years, but in the late 1980s, researchers were able to grow the crystals in the lab for use in electronics. The process was perfected and later evolved to the point where larger crystals were grown. By 1995, Charles & Colvard was created as the company tasked with cutting, polishing and bringing moissanite gems to dealers worldwide. Moissanite is often referred to as a diamond simulant because it can look similar to a diamond in cut and clarity, but is not made of the same properties. Today, Charles & Colvard sells its moissanite jewelry through a variety of retailers and through a handful of subsidiaries including: Mossiante.com, Lulu Avenue and Forever Brilliant.

Cost - Perhaps one of the greatest reasons for the success of moissanite as a diamond substitute is because of its relative affordability compared to the real thing. A 1.20 ct. round cut moissanite ring made with 14KT white gold and surrounded by smaller gems is priced just under $1,000. A similar engagement ring made of natural diamonds can costs up to five times that amount.

Benefits of Moissanite - There are other benefits of moissanite besides affordability. In addition to being able to get moissanite stones in a wide range of shapes and styles and in addition to clarity, the gems are also known for their brilliance. Often times, these stones can be sparkle more and more eye-catching than natural diamonds because of the way they are cut. Moissanite is also said to be more durable.


Where to buy Moissanite - Moissanite gems aren't just reserved for engagement rings. They are used in a wide array of jewelry from rings and bracelets to pendants and earrings. While the Charles and Colvad company has it's own subsidiary brands, it also wholesales to a wide range of retailers throughout America. You can find moissanite jewelry at stores like Helzberg Jewelry, Target and even JC Penny.