Frequently Asked Questions – Moissanite Shine
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before investing in moissanite jewelry.
Quality & Brilliance
Is moissanite as brilliant as a diamond?
Moissanite is actually more brilliant than diamond. Its Refractive Index (RI) is 2.65-2.69 vs diamond's 2.42, producing a fiery rainbow-like sparkle especially vivid in natural daylight. Every Moissanite Shine stone is graded D Color VVS1 for maximum brilliance.
Will my moissanite stone lose its sparkle over time?
Never. Moissanite scores 9.25 on the Mohs scale and is permanently brilliant. Unlike CZ or glass, it will never cloud, yellow, or fade. The sparkle you see on day one is the sparkle you will see on your 50th anniversary.
What does D Color VVS1 mean and why does it matter?
D Color is the highest colorless grade with zero yellow or grey tint. VVS1 means inclusions are invisible even under 10x magnification. Together they represent the apex of moissanite quality, backed by a GRA Certificate with every purchase.
The Gem Science
Does moissanite pass a diamond tester?
Yes - moissanite passes standard thermal-conductivity diamond testers. Advanced electrical-conductivity testers (MEDs) will correctly identify it as moissanite. We believe in full transparency: moissanite is its own remarkable gemstone, not a diamond imitation.
What is moissanite made of and where does it come from?
Moissanite is silicon carbide (SiC), first discovered in 1893 by Nobel laureate Henri Moissan in a meteor crater. Natural moissanite is extraordinarily rare; virtually all moissanite today is lab-grown - making it 100% conflict-free and environmentally responsible.
How hard is moissanite compared to diamond?
Diamond scores 10 on the Mohs scale; moissanite scores 9.25 - harder than sapphire, ruby, and all other gemstones except diamond. For daily wear this means virtually scratch-proof performance ideal for rings and bracelets.
Metals & Plating
What metal options are available at Moissanite Shine?
Standard: 925 Sterling Silver with Platinum, Gold, or Rhodium Plating. Solid gold upgrades: 9K, 14K, 18K Yellow Gold; 14K and 18K White Gold; 14K and 18K Rose Gold; and Platinum. Custom metal requests are always welcome.
How long does gold or platinum plating last?
Our thick plating typically lasts 12-24 months with proper care. Remove jewelry before swimming, avoid perfume and lotion contact, and store in the provided anti-tarnish pouch. Prefer zero replating? Opt for our solid gold upgrade.
Is Moissanite Shine jewelry nickel-free and hypoallergenic?
Yes. All 925 Sterling Silver bases are nickel-free and EU-compliant. Solid gold options (9K-18K) are inherently hypoallergenic. For sensitive skin, we recommend rhodium plating or solid white gold.
Buying Guide
How do I choose the right carat size for a moissanite ring?
Moissanite is measured by millimeter diameter, expressed as diamond-equivalent carat weight (DEW). A popular starting point is 1.5-2 carats DEW, giving a bold look without being overwhelming. Our size guide on each product page shows exact mm dimensions.
Which moissanite cut has the most sparkle?
The Round Brilliant cut returns the most light of any shape. For a unique equally brilliant alternative, the Oval and Cushion cuts are our bestsellers - both elongate the finger beautifully and offer exceptional fire.
Is moissanite a good value compared to diamonds?
Moissanite is a value-first luxury choice: superior sparkle (higher RI than diamond), exceptional durability (9.25 Mohs), ethical sourcing - at a fraction of diamond prices. Our Lifetime Upgrade Program also means your piece can evolve with you over time.
Engagement & Wedding
Can moissanite be used for an engagement ring?
Absolutely. Moissanite engagement rings are the choice of modern, informed couples who prioritize beauty, durability, and ethics. At 9.25 Mohs hardness, moissanite withstands daily wear beautifully. Our GRA-certified D Color VVS1 stones are indistinguishable from top-quality diamonds to the naked eye.
Do you offer custom engagement ring designs?
Yes! Specify your ideal shape, carat, setting style, metal, and engraving. Share a reference photo and we will create a 3D render for approval before production. Custom pieces ship in 4-6 weeks.
What ring size should I order? Can I resize later?
Use our full printable ring size guide linked on each product page. If unsure, order your measured size or the next half-size up. Most ring styles can be resized 1-2 sizes by a local jeweler without affecting the setting.
Ethics & Certification
Is moissanite an ethical and conflict-free gemstone?
Yes - 100%. All Moissanite Shine stones are lab-grown: no mining, no habitat destruction, zero conflict. Choosing moissanite is one of the most environmentally and ethically responsible jewelry decisions you can make.
What is a GRA Certificate and does every piece include one?
GRA (Gemological Research Association) is an internationally recognized authority. A GRA Certificate verifies the stone's color (D), clarity (VVS1), cut quality, and measurements. Every Moissanite Shine stone above 0.5ct ships with its individual certificate - no upgrade required.
How does moissanite compare to lab-grown diamonds ethically?
Both are conflict-free and lab-created. The difference: moissanite costs 80-90% less than a comparable lab-grown diamond while offering a higher refractive index (more sparkle). For ethically-minded buyers who want exceptional beauty without premium pricing, moissanite is the stronger choice.
Orders & Shipping
How long does production and shipping take?
Standard orders are produced and dispatched within 7-14 business days. International shipping adds 7-14 days depending on destination. Custom design orders take 4-6 weeks from design approval. Full tracking is provided when your order ships.
Do you ship internationally? Are there customs fees?
Yes - we ship worldwide. International customers may be subject to import duties levied by their country's customs authority. These are the buyer's responsibility. We recommend checking your local import regulations for jewelry before ordering.
What is your return and exchange policy?
We offer a 7-day return window from delivery for unworn, unaltered items in original packaging. Exchanges for size or style are processed with priority. Custom and engraved pieces are final sale. Contact us via email or WhatsApp with your order number to initiate.
Care & Maintenance
How do I clean my moissanite jewelry at home?
Mix a drop of mild dish soap with warm water, soak 15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Rinse and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for plated pieces - they are safe for solid gold settings. Steam cleaning is safe for all moissanite.
Can I wear moissanite jewelry in the shower, pool, or gym?
The stone is unaffected by water. For plated silver pieces, remove before swimming in chlorinated or salt water to extend plating life. Solid gold pieces are fully water-safe. Gym wear is fine - moissanite will not scratch - but rinse with warm water after lotion or sweat contact.
How should I store my moissanite jewelry?
Store each piece individually in the provided anti-tarnish pouch or a fabric-lined box. Keep away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and household chemicals. Annual professional prong inspection is recommended for rings worn daily.
Warranty & Upgrades
What does the Lifetime Gemstone Warranty cover?
Our Lifetime Gemstone Warranty covers any defect in the moissanite stone itself - including unexpected chipping or manufacturing faults. We replace the stone at no cost for the lifetime of the piece. The warranty does not cover accidental physical damage to the metal setting or normal plating wear.
How does the Lifetime Upgrade Program work?
Trade in any Moissanite Shine piece and apply its original purchase value toward a new piece of equal or greater value - at any time, for life. Upgrade your stone size, switch to solid gold, or move to a completely new style as your tastes evolve.
What if my jewelry arrives damaged or I receive the wrong item?
Contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photos and your order number via WhatsApp or email. We arrange an immediate replacement or full refund at no cost - including return shipping.
Still Have Questions?
Our jewelry specialists are available 7 days a week to help you find the perfect piece, configure a custom design, or answer any question about moissanite quality, sizing, or care.