Black Moissanite

Black moissanite is a man-made crystal with several atoms of silicon and carbon with black coloring. The gem has different polymorphs and has identical interior structures with real diamonds.
Black moissanite has unique crystal systems that could take different forms and possess varying isotropic structures. Crystals of black moissanite are perfect for earrings, wedding bands, necklaces, and other jewel due to its composition and properties.

Black moissanite has a Mohs rating of 9.25 to 9.3, putting it second behind real diamonds when you consider hardness. It also has low heat conductivity and a high melting point over 2000°C.
Black moissanite does not occur naturally in large quantity, but it is still one of the most in-demand gems for jewelers. Buyers need to know more about this gemstone before placing an order.
Let’s see essential information about these gemstones like ways to maintain them, how they are made, and much more.

History of Black Moissanite

Black moissanite gained popularity in the twentieth century, but the gemstone has existed in different forms long before then.
Edward Acheson was the first chemist to synthesize silicon carbide crystals in 1891 in its plain form. Doping moissanite became a popular practice in the mid-twentieth century when chemist discovered techniques to create crystals in different colors.

How to Make Black Moissanite

Many labs adopt a direct mixing method to form black moissanite crystals. These mass production methods usually involve:

• Adding carbon, silicon, and a black dopant element to a crucible,
• Heating the minerals between 1600°C and 2000°C,
• Allowing rearrangement of silicon atoms to crystallize the mix,
• Cooling, shaping, and cutting black crystals for different uses

Uses of Black Moissanite

Black moissanite is best suited for jewelry and is a major alternative to real black diamonds.

Chemical Properties of Black Moissanite

• Hardness (Mohs’ Scale): 9.3
• Density: 3.21 g/cm3
• Refractive Index: 2.654 – 2.967
• Dispersion: Low (0.104)
• Heat Resistance: 1550°C – 3000°C (decomposes at 2730°C)
• Fracture: Conchoidal
• Specific Gravity: 3.218 – 3.22 g/cm3

Maintenance Tips for Black Moissanite

You can clean your black moissanite jewelry at home with liquid soap and warm water. Follow these steps to retain the shine of your moissanite jewelry without hassle:

• Add warm water into a small bowl,
• Add drops of liquid soap into the water. Ensure the soap to water mix is at least one to four parts,
• Put the black moissanite in water for 10 minutes,
• Remove the crystal and brush its surface with a soft cloth or toothbrush,
• Rinse the jewelry in lukewarm water and allow it to dry

These steps should be enough to clean off dirt and oils from your black moissanite. But if you still notice grime and dirt on your gemstone, consider using a commercial jewelry cleaner.
Read the label of any cleaner you choose to use, as some might destroy moissanite and similar gemstones.

Never use harsh chemicals or unverified cleaning solvents on your plain or colored moissanite crystals. Some solvents could permanently damage the surface of your beautiful jewelry.
Use the simple method described above to clean your jewelry and retain its outer brilliance for much longer.

We have limited stock in black moissanites. So order the shape and size you would like now at Gems n Gems!