Are you in the market for a diamond simulant but feeling overwhelmed by all the options?
Two popular choices: Fabulite Strontium Titanate vs Moissanite.
Both offer a more affordable alternative to diamonds, but how do they compare in terms of appearance, durability, and value?
Fabulite Strontium Titanate, also known as ST, was developed in the 1950s and is composed of oxide of strontium and titanium.
It is a synthetic diamond simulant that can mimic the look of a diamond with its high refractive index and dispersion.
On the other hand, Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral that is also used as a diamond simulant.
It was first discovered in a meteorite and is now produced in a lab for use in jewelry.
Both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite have a similar level of hardness, making them durable options for everyday wear.
So, which one should you choose?
In this article, we will compare Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite in terms of their appearance, durability, and value, to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
ToggleUnderstanding Fabulite Strontium Titanate
If you are looking for a diamond simulant that has incredible fire and is affordable, you may want to consider Fabulite Strontium Titanate.
This synthetic gemstone was developed in the early 1950s and is sold in the trade as Fabulite and Diagem.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate is made of the oxide of strontium and titanium and is known for its brilliant and rainbow-like fire.
It is a popular diamond imitation as it looks very similar to a diamond and is much more affordable.
It is also a popular choice for jewelry as it is durable and has a high refractive index.
One of the benefits of Fabulite Strontium Titanate is that it is a synthetic gemstone, which means that it can be produced in large quantities and at a lower cost than natural gemstones.
It is also a more ethical choice as it does not require mining or harm to the environment.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate is not a birthstone and is not as hard as a diamond, which means that it can scratch and chip more easily.
However, it is still a durable gemstone and can last for a long time with proper care.
If you are looking for a diamond simulant that is affordable, has incredible fire, and is a more ethical choice, Fabulite Strontium Titanate may be the gemstone for you.
It is a popular choice for jewelry and can be found in a variety of styles and designs.
Properties Of Fabulite Strontium Titanate
If you’re considering purchasing a Fabulite Strontium Titanate gemstone, it’s important to understand its properties.
Here are some key characteristics to keep in mind:
- Hardness: Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is softer than moissanite and diamond. This makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage over time.
- Refractive Index: The refractive index of Fabulite Strontium Titanate is 2.41, which is higher than moissanite but lower than diamond. This means that it has a high level of brilliance and fire, but not quite as much as diamond.
- Specific Gravity: Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a specific gravity of 4.88 for natural and 5.13 for synthetic, which is much denser than diamond. This means that it has a substantial weight and feels heavier than diamond.
- Physical Properties: Fabulite Strontium Titanate is a synthetic gemstone that is made in a laboratory. It has a cubic crystal structure and is usually colorless or white, although it can also come in other colors such as blue, brown, green, orange, purple, red, and yellow.
- Luster: Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a high luster, which means that it has a shiny and reflective surface. This gives it a beautiful and eye-catching appearance.
- Density: Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a density of 5.13 g/cm3, which is higher than moissanite but lower than diamond. This means that it has a substantial weight and feels heavier than moissanite.
- Birefringence: Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a low birefringence, which means that it does not split light into two rays as much as other gemstones. This gives it a more uniform and consistent appearance.
- Cleavage and Fracture: Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a conchoidal fracture, which means that it breaks in a curved, shell-like pattern. It does not have any significant cleavage planes, which makes it less prone to breaking along certain directions.
Overall, Fabulite Strontium Titanate is a beautiful and affordable alternative to diamond and moissanite.
While it may not be as durable or brilliant as these other gemstones, it still has a lot of appeal and can be a great choice for those on a budget.
Color And Appearance Of Fabulite Strontium Titanate
When it comes to color, Fabulite Strontium Titanate gemstones are available in a wide range of colors.
The gemstone can be found in yellow, blue, green, and colorless varieties.
The yellow variety of Fabulite Strontium Titanate is the most popular and is often compared to yellow diamonds.
The blue and green varieties of Fabulite Strontium Titanate are also popular, and they offer a unique and stunning appearance.
The blue variety is often compared to blue sapphires, while the green variety is compared to emeralds.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate gemstones are often colorless, and they offer a brilliant sparkle that is similar to diamonds.
The colorless variety is perfect for those who want a diamond-like appearance without the high price tag.
In terms of appearance, Fabulite Strontium Titanate gemstones are known for their incredible fire and brilliance.
The gemstone has a high refractive index, which means that it reflects light extremely well.
This gives the gemstone a stunning sparkle and makes it appear larger than it actually is.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate gemstones are also known for their clarity.
The gemstone is relatively free of inclusions, which means that it has few to no internal flaws.
This makes the gemstone appear even more brilliant and gives it a clean, clear appearance.
Overall, Fabulite Strontium Titanate gemstones offer a stunning and unique appearance that is perfect for those who want a diamond-like gemstone without the high price tag.
Whether you choose a yellow, blue, green, or colorless variety, you can be sure that your Fabulite Strontium Titanate gemstone will offer a brilliant sparkle and stunning appearance that will turn heads wherever you go.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate Vs Diamonds
If you’re in the market for a diamond alternative, you may have come across Fabulite Strontium Titanate.
This man-made diamond simulant is often compared to diamonds due to its high fire and sparkle.
But how does it really compare to diamonds? Let’s take a closer look.
Quality
Diamonds are known for their hardness and durability, scoring a 10 on the Mohs scale.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate, on the other hand, scores a 5.5, making it more prone to scratches and damage.
However, it is still a relatively durable stone and can last a long time with proper care.
Affordability
One of the biggest advantages of Fabulite Strontium Titanate over diamonds is its affordability.
While diamonds can cost thousands of dollars, Fabulite Strontium Titanate is much more budget-friendly.
This makes it a great option for those who want the look of a diamond without the high price tag.
Value
When it comes to value, diamonds are still the clear winner.
While Fabulite Strontium Titanate may be more affordable, it is still a diamond simulant and not a real diamond.
This means that it will not hold its value over time like a real diamond would.
Man-made Diamond Simulant
Fabulite Strontium Titanate is a man-made diamond simulant, meaning it is created in a lab rather than being mined from the earth like diamonds.
This makes it a more ethical and sustainable choice for those who are concerned about the environmental impact of diamond mining.
Lab-grown Diamonds
If you’re looking for a more ethical and sustainable diamond alternative, lab-grown diamonds may be a better choice than Fabulite Strontium Titanate.
While they are more expensive than Fabulite Strontium Titanate, they are still more affordable than natural diamonds and offer the same durability and value as real diamonds.
In conclusion, Fabulite Strontium Titanate can be a great option for those who want the look of a diamond without the high price tag.
However, it is important to keep in mind that it is a diamond simulant and not a real diamond, and it may not hold its value over time like a real diamond would.
If you’re looking for a more ethical and sustainable option, lab-grown diamonds may be a better choice.
Understanding Moissanite
If you are looking for a diamond alternative, you might have come across moissanite.
Moissanite is a gemstone that is becoming increasingly popular due to its similarities to diamond.
Here is what you need to know about moissanite:
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a mineral that occurs naturally in meteorites.
However, the moissanite used in jewelry is usually lab-grown.
It is made of silicon carbide and has a similar chemical composition to diamond.
How Is Moissanite Different From Diamond?
Moissanite and diamond have similar physical properties, such as hardness and refractive index.
However, moissanite has a different crystal structure, which means it has different optical properties.
Moissanite has more fire and brilliance than diamond, which means it has more colorful flashes of light.
Is Moissanite A Good Diamond Alternative?
Moissanite is a great diamond alternative for many reasons.
It is less expensive than diamond, but it still has a similar look and feel.
It is also more durable than other diamond alternatives, such as cubic zirconia. Moissanite is also a sustainable choice, as it is usually lab-grown.
Natural Moissanite
Natural moissanite is extremely rare and is only found in meteorites.
It is not used in jewelry due to its scarcity.
However, lab-grown moissanite is widely available and is a great alternative to diamond.
In conclusion, moissanite is a great diamond alternative that is becoming more popular due to its similarities to diamond.
It is less expensive, more durable, and more sustainable than diamond.
Properties Of Moissanite
Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral that is made up of silicon carbide.
It is a popular diamond simulant due to its hardness, optical properties, and thermal conductivity.
Here are some of the properties of moissanite that you should know about:
- Hardness: Moissanite has a Mohs hardness of 9.25, which makes it one of the hardest known substances and an excellent choice for jewelry that is meant to last a lifetime.
- Refractive Index: Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69, which is higher than that of most other gemstones. This means that it has a higher level of brilliance and fire than other stones, including diamonds.
- Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of moissanite is 3.22, which is slightly lower than that of diamonds. This means that moissanite is slightly less dense than diamonds.
- Physical Properties: Moissanite has a number of physical properties that make it an ideal diamond simulant. It has a high melting point, is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and is highly durable.
- Luster: Moissanite has an adamantine luster, which is similar to that of diamonds. This means that it has a very high level of shine and brilliance.
- Density: The density of moissanite is 3.22 g/cm3, which is slightly lower than that of diamonds. This means that it is slightly less dense than diamonds.
- Birefringence: Moissanite has a birefringence of 0.104, which is higher than that of diamonds. This means that it has a higher level of dispersion, or fire, than diamonds.
- Cleavage: Moissanite has perfect cleavage in four directions. This means that it can be fractured along these planes if it is hit in just the right way.
- Fracture: Moissanite has a conchoidal fracture, which means that it breaks in a way that is similar to glass.
Overall, moissanite is a popular choice for those who want a diamond simulant that is durable, brilliant, and affordable.
Its high level of fire and brilliance make it an excellent choice for those who want a stone that sparkles and shines in any light.
Color And Appearance Of Moissanite
When it comes to color, Moissanite is available in a range of hues, including yellow, blue, green, and colorless.
The colorless version of Moissanite is the most popular choice for engagement rings, as it closely resembles a diamond.
The green and blue hues are more rare, but they can add a unique touch to your jewelry collection.
In terms of appearance, Moissanite has a high refractive index, which means that it has a lot of sparkle and fire.
It also has a distinct double refraction, which creates a “rainbow effect” when viewed from certain angles.
This effect is less noticeable in colorless Moissanite.
Moissanite is generally eye-clean, which means that it has no visible inclusions or blemishes to the naked eye.
However, under magnification, some inclusions may be visible.
These inclusions are generally small and not noticeable in everyday wear.
Overall, Moissanite is a great choice for those who want a diamond alternative with a lot of sparkle and fire.
Its color options and eye-clean appearance make it a versatile gemstone for any jewelry collection.
Moissanite Vs Diamonds
When it comes to choosing between moissanite and diamonds, there are a few key differences to consider.
Firstly, diamonds are the traditional choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry, and they are known for their durability and hardness.
However, lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular as a more affordable and ethical alternative to mined diamonds, and they offer the same quality and beauty as natural diamonds.
Moissanite, on the other hand, is a diamond simulant that is made from silicon carbide.
It is almost as hard as a diamond and has a similar brilliance and fire, but it is considerably more affordable.
Moissanite is also a more ethical choice, as it is lab-created and does not involve mining or exploitation of workers.
In terms of value, moissanite is a clear winner.
It is much more affordable than diamonds, even lab-grown diamonds, and offers excellent quality and beauty for the price.
If you are on a budget or simply want to get more for your money, moissanite is definitely worth considering.
However, if you are looking for the ultimate in luxury and prestige, diamonds are still the top choice.
They are timeless, classic, and will always be associated with romance and commitment.
If you are willing to invest in a high-quality diamond, it will be a piece of jewelry that you can cherish for a lifetime.
Ultimately, the choice between moissanite and diamonds comes down to your personal preferences and priorities.
If you value affordability and ethical sourcing, moissanite is a great choice.
If you want the ultimate in luxury and prestige, diamonds are the way to go.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate Vs Moissanite
If you are looking for an affordable diamond alternative, you might have come across Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite.
Both are popular gemstones that offer a similar look to diamonds, but they have some differences.
Here’s a quick comparison of Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite to help you make an informed decision.
Fire And Dispersion
One of the most attractive features of a diamond is its fire, which refers to the rainbow-colored flashes of light that you can see when you move the stone under the light.
Both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite have high dispersion, which means they can create a similar fire effect.
However, Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a higher dispersion score than Moissanite, which makes it a better choice if you want a stone with incredible fire.
Brilliance And Scintillation
Brilliance and scintillation are other important factors to consider when choosing a diamond alternative.
Brilliance refers to the amount of light that a gemstone reflects, while scintillation refers to the way the stone sparkles when it moves.
Both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite have high brilliance and scintillation, but Moissanite has a slightly higher score in both categories.
Durability And Wear
When it comes to durability, both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite are durable enough for everyday wear.
However, Moissanite is slightly harder than Fabulite Strontium Titanate, which makes it more resistant to scratches.
If you plan to wear your gemstone ring every day, Moissanite might be a better choice.
Care
Both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite are easy to care for.
You can clean them using mild soap and water, or you can take them to a professional jeweler for cleaning.
However, you should avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the stones.
Trade Names
Fabulite Strontium Titanate is sold under different trade names, including Jewelite and Marvelite.
Moissanite, on the other hand, is sold under its own name.
In summary, both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite are great diamond alternatives that offer a similar look to diamonds.
However, they have some differences in terms of fire, brilliance, scintillation, durability, and trade names.
Consider your personal preferences and budget when choosing between the two.
The Role Of Technology In Gemstone Production
When it comes to producing gemstones like Fabulite strontium titanate and moissanite, technology plays a crucial role.
Both of these gemstones are synthetic, which means that they are created in a laboratory rather than being mined from the earth.
Here are some of the ways that technology is used in the production of these gemstones:
- Advanced Ceramics: Both Fabulite strontium titanate and moissanite are made using advanced ceramic materials. These materials are designed to have specific properties, such as high hardness and durability, that make them suitable for use as gemstones.
- Semiconductor Technology: The production of Fabulite strontium titanate and moissanite involves the use of semiconductor technology. This technology is used to create the precise conditions needed to grow these gemstones in a laboratory setting.
- High-Voltage Capacitors: Fabulite strontium titanate is also used in the production of high-voltage capacitors. These capacitors are used in a variety of electronic devices, including televisions and computer monitors.
- Transition Metals: Both Fabulite strontium titanate and moissanite contain transition metals, which are used to create the specific colors and optical properties of these gemstones.
- Perovskite Oxides: Fabulite strontium titanate is a type of perovskite oxide, which is a class of materials that have a unique crystal structure. This structure gives these materials their unique properties, such as high conductivity and superconductivity.
Overall, the use of technology in the production of gemstones like Fabulite strontium titanate and moissanite allows for greater control over the properties and characteristics of these materials.
This, in turn, allows for the creation of gemstones that are more consistent in quality and appearance than those that are mined from the earth.
Historical And Geographical Context
Fabulite Strontium Titanate is a diamond simulant that was developed in the early 1950s and patented in 1953.
It is sold in the trade as Fabulite and Diagem.
Strontium Titanate’s natural analog tausonite was discovered in eastern Siberia, Russia, in 1982.
The tausonite crystals are too small to be used as a gemstone.
The discovery of strontium titanate was made by a Russian geochemist, V. S. Urusov, in 1953.
The mineral was first synthesized by the Soviet Union in the late 1940s as a potential substitute for diamond in industrial applications.
The Soviets hoped that strontium titanate would be a cheaper and more readily available alternative to diamond.
The mineral was initially used as a refractory material in the steel industry.
Strontium titanate’s optical properties were discovered in the early 1950s.
The mineral’s high refractive index and strong dispersion made it an attractive diamond simulant.
The mineral was first marketed as a diamond simulant in the early 1960s.
The mineral’s popularity as a diamond simulant peaked in the 1970s and 1980s.
In the 1980s, a large deposit of tausonite was discovered in eastern Siberia, Russia.
Tausonite is a natural analog of strontium titanate.
The mineral is too small to be used as a gemstone, but it has helped researchers better understand the properties of strontium titanate.
While strontium titanate was first synthesized in the Soviet Union, it is now produced in several countries, including Paraguay.
The mineral is used in a variety of applications, including jewelry, optics, and electronics.
The Market For Fabulite Strontium Titanate And Moissanite
If you’re in the market for a diamond alternative, you’ve likely come across both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite.
Both of these gems offer a more affordable option to diamonds, but which one is right for you?
Let’s take a closer look at the market for Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite.
When it comes to jewelry, both Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite are popular options for fashion jewelry and pendants.
They both offer a similar look to diamonds, but at a fraction of the cost.
However, it’s important to note that while both gems are affordable, Fabulite Strontium Titanate is typically the more affordable option of the two.
In terms of value and quality, both gems offer a high level of brilliance and fire.
However, Moissanite is often considered to be the higher quality option due to its durability and resistance to scratches.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate, on the other hand, is softer and more prone to scratches.
When it comes to affordability, Fabulite Strontium Titanate is the clear winner.
It is typically priced lower than Moissanite, making it a great option for those on a budget.
In terms of benefits, both gems offer a great alternative to diamonds.
They are both ethical and sustainable options, as they are lab-created rather than being mined from the earth.
Additionally, they offer a similar look to diamonds, without the high price tag.
Overall, when deciding between Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and budget.
Both gems offer a great alternative to diamonds and are a popular choice for those looking for an affordable and ethical option.
Key Takeaways
When it comes to choosing between Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite, there are a few key takeaways to keep in mind.
Firstly, Fabulite Strontium Titanate is a diamond simulant that was developed in the early 1950s and patented in 1953.
It has a Mohs hardness of 5.5, making it softer than Moissanite, which has a Mohs hardness of 9.5.
This means that Fabulite Strontium Titanate is more prone to scratches and abrasions, so it may not be the best choice for everyday wear.
However, Fabulite Strontium Titanate has a spectacular dispersion, which is the ability of a gemstone to split light into its component colors.
Its dispersion is a little less than double that of Moissanite, triple that of CZ, and more than quadruple that of diamond.
This means that Fabulite Strontium Titanate has incredible fire and brilliance, which can make it a great choice for special occasions or for those who want a diamond-like gemstone with a lot of sparkle.
Another thing to keep in mind is the price.
Fabulite Strontium Titanate is generally less expensive than Moissanite, which can make it a great option for those on a budget.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that the price can vary depending on the quality and size of the gemstone, as well as the retailer you purchase it from.
Overall, when choosing between Fabulite Strontium Titanate and Moissanite, it’s important to consider factors such as hardness, dispersion, and price.
By weighing these factors and considering your own personal preferences and needs, you can make an informed decision and choose the gemstone that’s right for you.