In the novel Unorthodox Love by Heidi Shertok, the protagonist, Penina, is a young Orthodox Jewish woman who is struggling to find her place in the world. She is in love with Zevi, a man who is not Orthodox, and she is faced with the decision of whether to marry him and leave her community behind.
One of the challenges that Penina faces is the issue of engagement rings. In the Orthodox Jewish community, engagement rings are traditionally made with diamonds. However, Penina is not sure that she wants a diamond ring. She is concerned about the ethical implications of the diamond industry, and she is also aware that diamonds are very expensive.
Penina eventually decides to get a moissanite ring. Moissanite is a gemstone that is often referred to as a “synthetic diamond” because it has a very similar chemical composition and physical properties to diamond. However, moissanite is actually a naturally occurring mineral that was first discovered in 1893 in a meteorite that crashed in Siberia.
Moissanite is less expensive than diamond, and it is available in a wider range of colors. Moissanite is also just as durable as diamond, but it is slightly less scratch-resistant.
Penina’s decision to get a moissanite ring is a symbolic one. It represents her decision to break away from the traditional expectations of her community and to forge her own path in life. It is also a decision that is based on her own personal values.
The Pros and Cons of Moissanite Rings
There are several pros to consider when choosing a moissanite engagement ring. These include:
Price: Moissanite engagement rings are typically much less expensive than diamond engagement rings.
Color: Moissanite is available in a wider range of colors than diamond. Brilliance: Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, which means that it reflects light more efficiently and appears more brilliant.
Durability: Moissanite is just as durable as diamond.
Ethical: Moissanite is a more ethical gemstone than diamond, as it is not associated with the same environmental and labor concerns.
The Cons of Moissanite Rings
There are also a few cons to consider when choosing a moissanite engagement ring. These include:
Rarity: Moissanite is not as rare as diamond, so some people may view it as less valuable.
Education: There is less public awareness of moissanite than diamond, so some people may not be familiar with it.
Clarity: Moissanite can sometimes have inclusions that are visible to the naked eye. Conclusion
Moissanite rings are a great option for people who are looking for a beautiful, affordable, and ethical gemstone. Moissanite is less expensive than diamond, and it is available in a wider range of colors. Moissanite is also just as durable as diamond, but it is slightly less scratch-resistant.
If you are considering a moissanite engagement ring, I recommend doing some research to find a reputable jeweler. You should also be aware of the different qualities of moissanite, such as color, clarity, and cut.
Additional Information
In addition to the information that is included in this article, there are a few other things that you should keep in mind about moissanite engagement rings.
GIA Certification: Moissanite can be certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). GIA certification is a guarantee of the quality and authenticity of the moissanite. Care: Moissanite is a durable gemstone, but it is still important to care for it properly. Avoid exposing moissanite to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. Where to Buy: Moissanite engagement rings can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including jewelers, online retailers, and direct from manufacturers. I hope this article has given you some insights into moissanite engagement rings. If you are interested in learning more about this gemstone, I recommend visiting a reputable jeweler or doing some research online.