Moissanite Cuts & Shapes

Moissanite is Cut To Maximize Fire & Brilliance

Unlike diamonds which are most commonly cut to maximize carat weight, Moissanite gemstones are cut and faceted to maximize the superior fire and brilliance of the gemstone. Cutting patterns for Moissanite were discovered through studying the way light refracts through the gemstone. This led to the development of faceting patterns that maximize the stone's brilliance and fire. The most popular faceting pattern for Moissanite is the round brilliant cut, which features 57 or 58 facets, depending on whether or not there is a culet.

Other popular cutting styles for Moissanite include the cushion cut, the princess cut, and the emerald cut. The number of facets and the angle of each facet is carefully calculated to maximize the amount of light that enters the stone and to reflect it back out in a way that creates the most brilliance and fire.

Moissanite is also cut to a specific carat weight, which is determined by the size of the rough stone. The goal is to cut the stone in a way that maximizes its size and weight while also enhancing its brilliance and fire. This requires a great deal of skill and precision, as cutting the stone too shallow or too deep can result in a loss of brilliance or a dark, lifeless appearance.

Overall, Moissanite's brilliance and fire are enhanced through careful cutting that takes into account the stone's refractive properties and the way light interacts with it. The result is a gemstone that rivals even the most brilliant diamonds in terms of beauty and radiance.

The Process

Moissanite begins as a raw crystal form. Each crystal is first evaluated for quality, color, and clarity. Only the crystals that meet the highest quality standards are allowed to be cut and faceted. After the initial quality evaluation, a team of C&C experts determine what shapes and sizes of Moissanite gemstones will be cut from the crystals.

The crystals are then routed to a team of 18 cutters, technical experts, and faceters; each of whom plays a role in bringing the gemstone to its ideal display of brilliance. Along each stage of this involved 18-step process, from crystal evaluation to faceting the finished gemstone, experts evaluate Moissanite against strict quality standards and specifications. The last step is final grading for color, cut, and clarity. Only the most desirable gemstones that meet C&C's standards are chosen to be sold.