It has many of the same characteristics as a near flawless diamond and is rapidly catching on among consumers who want the same look for less than a tenth of the price.

While diamonds are sold according to carat weight, Moissanites are sold by size, measured in millimeters.

For the average consumer, there is no way to tell the difference between Moissanite and diamond.

Jewelers must use a special Moissanite probe, a microscope, or know how to recognize the distinguishing "double refraction".

As we did last year, Buyer Beware took a Moissanite ring to various local retailers and asked whether the stone was a diamond. Last year most jewelers told us we had a real diamond. This year, only foyr said we had a diamond, seven could tell it was "not" a diamond, and one store would not commit.

While more local jewelers are aware of Moissanite, it's clear that some jewelers or their employees can still be easily fooled. We also found more distributors now -- four in this state compared to only one a year ago.

Buyer Beware found a wide variation in prices from store to store and from state to state, with the range in Washington state starting at $478 and going up to $900 for a 6.5 mm stone, which would be comparable to a 1-carat diamond.

What to watch out for: To avoid being a victim of "stone switching," always buy diamond jewelry from a reputable jeweler and get written verification of the stone as well as a certified appraisal.

To make sure you really have a Moissanite, and not a cheap simulation, get a written verification and appraisal when you buy. Be very careful about buying diamonds or other jewelry from private parties through the paper or internet.

Be wary of buying loose diamonds from anyone other than a reputable jeweler (because of the potential for fraud the manufacturer of Moissanite does not allow jewelers to sell loose Moissanite stones but individuals may try it).

Also, remember that the cheapest Moissanite deal may also be risky if you have to send your money and possibly your own setting to a stranger out of state.

For more information about Moissanite contact the manufacturer, Charles & Colvard, in Morrisville, North Carolina at 1-800-210-4367, or check Moissanite Web site for a state by state listing of authorized dealers.