Does Moissanite Get Cloudy? Here's The Reasons

Moissanite is a beautiful gemstone, a budget-friendly diamond alternative recognized for its sparkle and hardness.

Moissanite has been a great alternative to diamond, however, many people are curious, "Does moissanite become cloudy?" With time, moissanite stones may lose some of their sparkle, but this is often caused by outside forces and not the stone itself. 

Moissanite requires minimal care to keep itself forever sparkly and cloudy free, In this article, we will discuss what moissanite is, why moissanite could appear cloudy, and how to keep it sparkling.

What Is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone consisting of silicon carbide. It was originally found in a crater from a meteorite by researcher Henri Moissan but now we have both options for natural or man-made moissanite gemstone.

Moissanite's appearance is very much like a diamond but along with diamond characteristics such as spark, and hardness moissanite possesses its own characteristics, including more fire and brilliance.

It is strong, durable, and much less expensive, which has made it the preferred choice for engagement rings and high-end jewelry. 

Reasons Why Moissanite Might Look Cloudy

Moissanite does not become cloudy from within. However, external factors like dirt, oils, and residue can make it appear dull. Let's take a look at the main reasons this might happen:

Dirt and Oil Buildup

Everyday activities like cooking, applying lotion, or even touching your ring can cause dirt and oil to build up on the surface of moissanite. This creates a film that reduces its sparkle but this film on the surface can be removed.

Hard Water Deposits

If you often wash your hands or shower while wearing your moissanite jewelry, hard water minerals can accumulate on the surface. These deposits can make the stone look cloudy over time.

Residue from Cleaning Products

Household cleaners, hand soaps, and dishwashing liquids contain chemicals that can leave a film on your moissanite. Over time, this buildup can dull its shine.

Scratches and Surface Damage

While moissanite is durable, it is not completely scratch-proof. Small scratches on the surface can trap dirt and oils, making the stone look cloudy or dull.

Improper Storage

If moissanite jewelry is stored with other harder gemstones, it may develop small surface scratches. Additionally, if kept in a humid place, dust and moisture can create a cloudy appearance.

Residue from Lotions or Cosmetics

Makeup, sunscreen, and lotions contain oils and other ingredients that stick to the surface of moissanite. This can cause the stone to lose its brilliance until it is cleaned.

How To Clean Cloudy Moissanite?

If your moissanite looks cloudy, don’t worry—a good cleaning can restore its sparkle. Here’s how you can keep it looking brand new:

Clean It Regularly

The best way to prevent cloudiness is by cleaning your moissanite jewelry regularly. Use a soft toothbrush, warm water, and mild soap to gently scrub the stone. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Avoid exposing your moissanite to harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and strong detergents. These substances can leave a residue and make the stone appear dull.

Professional Cleaning

For a deep clean, take your moissanite jewelry to a professional jeweler every six months to a year. They will use ultrasonic or steam cleaning to remove stubborn dirt and buildup.

Proper Storage

Store your moissanite jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches. Keeping it separate from other gemstones will also help maintain its clarity.

Dry With a Soft Cloth

After cleaning, always dry your moissanite with a lint-free, soft microfiber cloth. This will prevent water spots and streaks from forming on the surface.

Conclusion

Moissanite is a strong and durable gemstone, a suitable option for your daily wear jewelry with less maintenance. It is not cloudy permanently, but certain outside elements such as dirt, hard water, and residue may cause it to appear dull. Daily cleaning and good care will keep your moissanite as shiny as the day you received it. With very little care and by following these easy steps, your moissanite jewelry will continue to shine brightly for years to come.

FAQs

Is a Moissanite engagement ring ugly?

Not at all! Moissanite is one of the most brilliant gemstones available. Its fire and sparkle often surpass that of a diamond.

Does moissanite lose its sparkle?

No, moissanite does not lose its sparkle permanently. Regular cleaning will keep it shining brightly for years.

Will moissanite become permanently dull?

No, moissanite does not turn dull over time. Any dullness is usually caused by surface buildup, which can be cleaned, and once cleaned your moissanite will shine as new.

Does moissanite pass a diamond tester?

Yes, moissanite can pass a diamond tester because it has thermal conductivity similar to diamonds. However, some advanced testers can distinguish between the two.