Does Moissanite Get Cloudy? Here's The Truth
March 04, 2024
Does moissanite get cloudy over time? It's a valid question for anyone considering this gemstone as a centerpiece for their jewelry. ? It's time to put those doubts to rest and dive into the sparkling world of moissanite, a gemstone that continues to rise in popularity for its diamond-like qualities minus the hefty price tag. Let's explore why moissanite is a stellar choice for anyone seeking durability, brilliance, and clarity in their jewelry.
What "Cloudy" Means in Gemstones
When we talk about a gemstone being "cloudy," we're referring to a lack of transparency or clarity that can make the stone appear hazy, milky, or less sparkling. This cloudiness can prevent the gemstone from reflecting light efficiently, resulting in a diminished sparkle and brilliance that's usually sought after in fine jewelry.
Causes of Cloudiness in Gemstones
Cloudiness in gemstones can be caused by several factors:
- Inclusions: Natural gemstones often contain inclusions, which are tiny imperfections or foreign materials inside the stone. These can affect the stone's clarity, making it look cloudy.
- Surface Damage: Scratches or abrasions on the surface of a gemstone can scatter light, leading to a cloudy appearance.
- Dirt and Grime Build-up: Daily wear and exposure to substances like lotion, oils, and dirt can create a film on the surface of a gemstone, making it appear cloudy until properly cleaned.
- Manufacturing Flaws: In some cases, the process used to create lab-grown stones or treat natural stones can introduce cloudiness.
Differentiating Between Permanent and Temporary Cloudiness
It's important to distinguish between cloudiness that is inherent to the stone and that which is caused by external factors. Permanent cloudiness is usually due to internal characteristics like inclusions or manufacturing flaws, while temporary cloudiness is often the result of dirt build-up or minor surface damage and can be remedied with thorough cleaning or professional polishing.
What Makes Moissanite Shine?
Born from the stars, moissanite was first discovered in a meteor crater in 1893, making its origin story as captivating as its sparkle. This gemstone is composed of silicon carbide, a material known for its incredible durability and brilliant refractive index. In fact, moissanite is so close to diamonds in terms of hardness, it's almost a match made in heaven for those seeking a durable, everyday piece of jewelry.
Comparison between moissanite and other gemstones regarding cloudiness and care:
| Feature | Moissanite | Diamond | Cubic Zirconia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9.25 | 10 | 8-8.5 |
| Brilliance (Refractive Index) | 2.65-2.69 | 2.42 | 2.15-2.18 |
| Cloudiness Over Time | No | No | Yes |
| Durability | High | Very High | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Low | High |
| Eco-Friendliness | High | Variable | High |
Notes:
- Hardness: Determines the ability to resist scratches and affects durability.
- Brilliance: Refers to the gemstone's ability to reflect light.
- Cloudiness Over Time: Indicates whether the gemstone becomes cloudy with age.
- Durability: Overall ability to withstand wear and tear.
- Maintenance: Required effort to keep the gemstone looking its best.
- Eco-Friendliness: Impact on the environment during sourcing or creation.
Learn more about moissanite here
Does Moissanite Get Cloudy Over Time?
One of the most common questions we hear is, But does moissanite get cloudy? It's a concern that many have, especially when investing in a piece of jewelry that's meant to last a lifetime. Here's the answer:
No, moissanite does not get cloudy over time due to its chemical and physical properties. Made of silicon carbide, moissanite is extremely hard, ranking just below diamonds on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This durability means that moissanite is resistant to scratching, abrasion, and clouding that can occur with softer gemstones.
However, like any gemstone, moissanite can accumulate dirt, oils, and grime from everyday wear, which can make it appear less sparkly or "cloudy" if not cleaned regularly. Proper cleaning with mild soap and water or a specialized jewelry cleaner can restore its original brilliance. It's important to differentiate between actual cloudiness within the stone, which does not happen with moissanite, and the temporary dulling effect from surface dirt or residue, which can easily be remedied with cleaning.
Why Moissanite Wins Hearts
Choosing moissanite comes with a host of benefits. It's not only an eco-conscious choice, being lab-created, but it also offers exceptional value. With its unparalleled brilliance, moissanite provides the look and feel of a diamond at a fraction of the cost. Whether it's for an engagement ring or a treat-yourself moment, moissanite delivers beauty and resilience in equal measure.
Explore our beautiful moissanite engagement ring collection here and for any moissanite queries, reach out here – we're excited to assist you!
Final Thoughts
After learning all about moissanite, we know now that moissanite doesn't get cloudy over time. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a special piece of jewelry that stays shiny and beautiful year after year. Moissanite is not just tough and pretty; it's also a smart pick for people who care about the planet and want something that looks like a diamond but doesn't cost as much.
So, if you've been thinking about whether moissanite is the right choice for you, remember it keeps its sparkle and won't let you down. Moissanite is perfect for adding that special glow to your jewelry collection without any worries.
