Our Rock Shop Specialists Reveal Some Secrets to Help You Search for the Perfect Stone
When someone speaks of a white gemstone, it is very likely that most people will picture a diamond. Of course, this is a traditional stone which is most sought after, but there are still a few others that we would like to discuss for those of you who come in our rock shop in search of a more inexpensive option for an engagement ring gem. There are some white gemstone alternatives that you may consider.
Basic characteristics:
DIAMONDS. They are the hardest and most rare gemstones formed at high pressure and temperature at depths of 87 to 120 miles. Synthetic diamonds are now also manufactured in laboratories, but they are still very expensive. Although it symbolizes love and purity, this stone easily attracts envy.
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Brilliance: 2.417
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Fire: 0.044 (high)
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Hardness: 10
MOISSANITE. It has been discovered in a meteorite more than 100 years ago and has been artificially created in a laboratory around 35 years ago. Although this stone is relatively unknown, it has more brilliance than the diamond.
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Brilliance: 2.691
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Fire: 0.104 (high)
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Hardness: 9.25
WHITE SAPPHIRE. It is hard, durable and pretty rare. However, it can also be manufactured in a laboratory.
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Brilliance: 1.770
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Fire: 0.018 (low)
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Hardness: 9
WHITE TOPAZ. This crystal is formed in cavities of volcanic rock which erupted millions of years ago. When it is exposed to sunlight, it becomes colorless. Unfortunately, it gets dirty easily.
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Brilliance: 1.664
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Fire: 0.014 (low)
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Hardness: 8
CUBIC ZIRCONIA. This is a cubic crystalline which is formed of zirconium dioxide. It is the most mass-produced diamond simulacrum that can be found on the gemstone market. However, it loses its surface luster much quicker than diamonds.
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Brilliance: 2.177
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Fire: 0.065 (high)
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Hardness: 8.5
If you are still not sure about your choice, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist from our rock shop in Cañon City, CO. The Gold Mine Rock Shop is always ready to help you find what you need!