With ethical fashion one of the hottest trends of 2021, a number of sustainable jewellery designers are offering eco-conscious consumers accessory options that look good and are great for the environment. We chatted to co-founder of Moi Moi Fine Jewellery, Lauren Sommer, on why lab-grown diamond and Moissanite can be just as magical as the real deal.
Tell us a little bit about your sustainable jewellery business?
We are a jewellery store based in the Queen Victoria Building of Sydney’s CBD. My sister (Alana Weirick) and I are passionate about creating investment jewellery pieces made with moissanite and lab-grown diamonds. We believe these gems are among the most ethical out there. And we love offering solutions that show that sustainable jewellery can look good, and actually be great for the environment too.
What is Moissanite anyway?
Moissanite is the most brilliant jewel in the world. It has more brilliance, fire and lustre than a diamond. Moissanite is ideal for an engagement ring due to its better quality, better value and better effect on the environment than a mined diamond. It’s a great option for those looking to invest in sustainable jewellery.
Why are Moissanite and lab-grown gems a better choice for those searching for sustainable jewellery?
I love lab-grown diamonds and Moissanite for so many reasons. Firstly, they are really beautiful. Lab-grown diamonds are identical to mined diamonds, whereas Moissanite has more brilliance, fire and lustre than any other jewel including diamond. This is what you look for – a gorgeous sparkle. I also love that lab-grown jewels are 100% ethical and conflict-free. They have a guaranteed source of origin and they also have less environmental impact and degradation than mined jewels making them perfect for those considering investing in sustainable jewellery. The icing on the cake is that lab-grown gems offer great value meaning you can get a much bigger or higher quality jewel for your budget.
Are lab-grown gems easier to work with?
Lab-grown gems are exactly the same to work with as mined jewels because they are made from the same natural mineral. For example, a mined diamond and a lab-grown diamond are both 100% carbon. You can wear lab-grown jewels every day just as you can mined diamonds and they will maintain their brilliance and sparkle forever.
How do these sustainable jewellery options compare in cost to mined jewels?
Lab-grown gems are much more affordable compared to mined. Typically lab-grown diamonds will be 50-70% less than a mined diamond and Moissanite are even more affordable being around 90% less expensive.
Are these gems easier to clean/wear at home?
Lab-grown jewels are exactly the same as mined jewels. I recommend to all my clients to not wear any rings in the house whether they are mined or lab-grown. It’s a good habit to get into if you own fine jewellery as a lot of wear and tear happens when we do normal activities at home. As for cleaning lab-grown or mined jewels at home, a quick and easy way is to get a bowl of water with a drop of dishwashing liquid and a toothbrush and your jewellery will be sparkling!
Is longevity as good in sustainable jewellery such as mined gems?
Lab-grown diamonds have the same crystal structure, composition, physical and optical characteristics of a mined diamond. This means that they last just as long as a mined diamond would. A lab-grown diamond and Moissanite is forever and something to keep in your family for generations to come – a truly sustainable jewellery option!
