Fifty thousand years ago, when a meteorite crashed into the Arizona desert, fragments of it were scattered across the desert. Dr. Henri Moissan began studying the fragments of this meteorite in nearby Diablo Canyon. The fragments of shimmering material were found in minute quantities; these fragments had a fire and brilliance never seen on earth. After extensive research, Dr. Moissan concluded that the mineral was made of silicon carbide.
In 1905, Tiffany & Co., with the help of gem expert and mineralogist, George Kunz, suggested that this new jewel should be called Moissanite in Dr. Moissan’s honor. Although this is a great discovery, this material occurs naturally in very small quantities. It took a whole century before this mineral emerged as a brilliant jewel and was used in making rings. These rings increasingly gained popularity alongside diamond rings. In the 1980’s, CREE, a North Carolina company developed a process to produce large single crystals of Moissanite. In 1995, a master diamond cutter suggested if this stone were properly cut, the crystals would become a brilliant new jewel which could be sold alongside diamond rings. Scientists from CREE and eventually Charles & Colvard chose to bring fire and brilliance to the Moissanite jewels. And along with diamond rings, Moissanite rings are now gaining popularity because of their brilliant look and affordability.
If you thought that Moissanite rings are the only place you’d find a use for this wonderful material, you will be surprised. The extraordinary properties of Moissanite go beyond the jewelry. It has changed many things in the world today:
Body armor: Pinnacle Armor, a California-based company that manufactures military-grade body armor called “Dragon Skin.” It comprises discs of Moissanite. The Dragon Skin body armor is well known to withstand grenade blasts and up to 40 rounds of ammunition. This armor has been worn by many military and defense agencies in the US.
Abrasive: Moissanite is a popular abrasive because of its durability. In manufacturing, it is used for processes like grinding, honing, water-jet cutting, and sandblasting. Particles of silicon carbide are stuck on to paper to create sandpapers and the grip tape on skateboards.
Automobile parts in high-performance luxury cars: The Moissanite is used to create high-performance “ceramic” brake discs that withstand extreme temperatures. The silicon carbide reacts with the graphite to become a carbon fiber that reinforces the silicon carbide (C/SiC). These discs are used for sports cars, such as Bentleys, Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and some Audis.
LED Light bulbs: Moissanite is made of silicon carbide which is used to create LED light bulbs. CREE Inc. makes the raw gem very precious. The Moissanite crystals used by Charles & Colvard helps make retain their position as a world leader in LED light manufacturing and research and development.
Astronomy: The Herschel Space Observatory telescope was launched in 2009. It is the largest space telescope ever and it carries a single mirror that is 3.5 meters (11.5 ft) in diameter and is made of polycrystalline Moissanite. It is hard, tough, and a very good thermal conductor, hence Moissanite makes an ideal mirror for astronomical telescopes.
Fashion is a powerful tool that can enhance confidence and transform one’s overall appearance. While it’s easy to assume that looking fabulous requires a hefty budget or a personal stylist, the truth is that with a few smart fashion hacks, one can achieve a stylish and effortlessly glamorous look. Here are some fashion hacks for men and women that will help them elevate their style game and look fabulous for any occasion.
Fashion hacks for women
Fashion hacks for men
An essential aspect of dressing up is feeling youthful and vibrant. Dressing fashionably can enhance one’s mood and boost confidence. Moreover, staying up-to-date with the latest fashion trends can enable one to shed their comfort zone and explore the intriguing world of fashion. However, some common mistakes can end up making the look feel contrived and overdone. Thus, here are some mistakes to avoid to achieve a young and trendy look:
Wearing ill-fitting clothes
Wearing properly fitting clothes is essential to accentuate one’s figure, which facilitates a young and modern look. For example, wearing well-fitting trousers can make one appear well-toned; hence, it is best to try out jeans and trousers of different sizes and purchase only those that fit well.
Pairing sneakers with casual wear
Wearing sneakers or running shoes is a good idea if one is engaging in athletic activities. However, pairing sneakers with casual wear like skirts and jeans, even for regular outings, can limit one’s options considerably. Footwear plays a significant role in enhancing one’s overall look. Although sneakers are typically comfortable, it helps to check out other types of comfortable yet fashionable footwear, including trendy flip-flops, slip-on loafers, huarache sandals, and strappy pumps.
Owning a wardrobe that represents a bygone era
Long beaded necklaces and bell bottoms may facilitate a great retro look, but wearing only such outfits can cause one to look old-fashioned. It is important to embrace changing trends and find a sweet spot that strikes the perfect balance between one’s personal dressing choices and preferences and the current fashion trends. While one may own a couple of outfits and accessories from a bygone decade, having a diverse and up-to-date wardrobe can ensure a young and happening look.
Using clothes to hide signs of aging
For example, trying to conceal wrinkles by wearing only high-neck and collared clothes can limit one’s choices. Furthermore, such clothes may not suit every occasion. It helps to opt for other subtle but effective ways to steer attention from certain parts of the body. For example, wearing longer necklaces like the opera-style and lariat-design necklaces, which fall below one’s chest and belly button, respectively, can act as excellent pieces of everyday jewelry and can subtly steer attention from the neck.
Wearing only black
While black has an indubitable charm of its own, wearing only black from head to toe can pass off a rather dull and boring look and take away from the radiance of one’s complexion. It helps to pair black with other colors, such as a black top with blue jeans or vice versa. Wearing a deep-neck black top can also ensure that the monotony is broken by the skin showing. Finally, one may pair black outfits with vibrant accessories.
Overlooking the importance of fashionable spectacles
If one wears eyeglasses, there is a lot that can be done with them to make or break an outfit. Wearing outdated spectacles can single-handedly bring down the appeal of one’s look. Conversely, certain basic tips for wearing eyeglasses can significantly elevate one’s style. For example, it is recommended to pick glasses with frames, as a variety of elegant frames is available today. Moreover, frames can help subtly conceal any wrinkles or dark circles around the eyes. The best bet is to look for trendy frames that match one’s outfit or opt for a classic style that matches most looks.
Not picking undergarments carefully
Panty lines are often overlooked, but they can spoil one’s look considerably. For example, thin-laced panties are good choices for light-colored trousers, as these can prevent panty lines from being seen. Visible bra straps, or bra straps contrasting the ensemble’s colors, can also work against an appealing look. Finally, wearing a bra of the wrong size can cause one’s breasts to appear saggy. Thus, it is important to purchase the right undergarments and coordinate them appropriately for each outfit.
Not going for the right make-up
Make-up is an essential aspect of one’s look. The color and brand of make-up one wears can determine whether a look is trendy or outdated. For instance, applying too much foundation or setting powder to hide wrinkles can cause one’s face and neck to appear cakey. Rather, it helps to master the various effective techniques of make-up application so that wrinkles and blemishes are not obvious, but one’s overall appearance is not affected. Moreover, choosing lipsticks of the right color and type is essential to stay trendy. Investing in lip primers and balms can prevent chapped lips and facilitate a smooth surface for the lipstick. Matte lipsticks may cause the lips to look thinner and flatter. Hence, it is advisable to opt for dewy lipsticks for a young and chic look.
Every aspect of one’s look, including accessories, make-up, footwear, and jewelry, is essential to complete the picture. Jumping onto trend bandwagons or sticking to an outdated wardrobe can prevent one from being fashionable. The best bet is to purchase outfits and accessories that are comfortable while being classy and trendy. Today, the online retail market has ensured easy access to various types of clothing, accessories, and footwear, opening up a world of opportunities for aspiring fashionistas. Exploring the latest trends and researching products by different brands can help broaden one’s horizons and can be a wonderful experience for personal growth too.