What is Charles & Colvard?
Mr. Braun: Charles & Colvard markets and distributes moissanite jewels for sale in the worldwide jewelry market. Moissanite, also known by its chemical name silicon carbide, is a rare, naturally occurring mineral found primarily in meteorites, and we’re the sole manufacturer of scientifically made moissanite jewels. Our strategy is to create a unique brand image which positions moissanite as a jewel in its own right, distinct from all other jewels based on its fire, brilliance, luster and rarity. Moissanite is being marketed as a new product category and business opportunity for the jewelry trade. TWST: Could you give us a history of the company itself? Mr. Braun: The company was incorporated in 1995. The idea of making moissanite jewels was initially thought of by an individual who was trying to make a surgical saw out of silicon carbide. This hard material was and is used in the chip industry. He couldn’t cut it. So he had a jewelry friend from Raleigh cut it for him. The jewelry fri
