Few gemstones can boast about being born in the stars. Moissanite, on the other hand, was literally discovered in a meteorite. Here's everything you need to know about this fascinating gem.
A Discovery from Space
In 1893, French chemist Henri Moissan — a future Nobel laureate — analyzed fragments of a meteorite that fell into Arizona's Canyon Diablo crater. He discovered crystals of unprecedented brilliance, which he initially mistook for diamonds. They were actually silicon carbide (SiC), a mineral previously unknown on Earth in exploitable natural quantities. The stone would later be named after him: moissanite.
From Laboratory to Jewelry
Since natural moissanite is infinitely rare, the moissanite used in jewelry has been created in laboratories since the 1990s, thanks to a controlled crystallization process. The result: stones of exceptional optical purity, with perfectly consistent properties — without mining extraction.
The Properties That Make It Unique
A Brilliance Superior to Diamond
With a refractive index of 2.65 to 2.69 (compared to 2.42 for diamond) and fire more than twice as high, moissanite reflects more light and disperses it into spectacular multi-colored flashes. It is the most brilliant stone used in jewelry.
Unmatched Hardness
At 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is the second hardest gemstone in the world after diamond. It resists daily scratches and does not cloud over time.
Guaranteed Purity
Unlike diamonds, whose purity varies enormously (and drives up prices), jewelry-grade moissanites are systematically colorless or near-colorless (equivalent to D-F to G-H) and free of inclusions visible to the naked eye.
How is Moissanite Certified?
Each quality stone comes with a certificate detailing its cut, color, and dimensions. At WM Paris, each creation is delivered with its certificate of authenticity and checked before shipping.
For Whom, For What?
Moissanite is for those who want:
- the brilliance of an exceptional stone without the diamond price tag — see why moissanite is cheaper;
- an ethical stone, without mining extraction;
- a piece of jewelry for every day: engagement ring, wedding band, necklace, earrings.
Still hesitating between moissanite and diamond? Our comparison moissanite vs. diamond reviews all the criteria.
Discover moissanite in all its glory in our collections — rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings designed in Paris.