Image from L to R: Raw synthetic moissanite material before being grown. Source: Alibaba | Cut and set moissanite Source: Diamond Boutique

Pronounced moy-sanite, from the name of French chemist Henri Moissan. Often marketed as affordable diamond alternative.

Colour: Colourless but usually tinged with a greenish hue compared to diamonds Found in: US, Turkey, Russia – though usually synthesised Mohs Hardness: 9.25 Class: Silicon carbide Lustre: Adamantine to metallic Formula: SiC2