Moissanite, a stunning gemstone known for its brilliance and affordability, has gained popularity as a desirable alternative to diamonds.
As with any precious stone, questions arise regarding its long-term beauty and durability. One such concern revolves around the potential for moissanite to become cloudy over time, ultimately losing its initial sparkle.
In this article, we will explore its nature, debunk common misconceptions, and address the question: Does it get cloudy over time, or does it maintain its brilliance indefinitely? If you are in need of a pair of beautiful earrings, make sure to check out the selection available at MoissaniteCo.com.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Composition
Moissanite, also known as silicon carbide, is a lab-created gemstone that closely resembles the visual properties of diamonds. Created in controlled environments, the gemstone exhibits exceptional fire, brilliance, and durability.
Its chemical makeup contributes to its unique optical properties, ensuring an intense sparkle. Composed of silicon and carbon, moissanite crystals possess a remarkable hardness rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamonds.
This hardness lends it excellent resistance to scratching and damage, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Dispelling the Myth: Resistance to Clouding
Contrary to popular belief, moissanite does not typically become cloudy over time. Unlike other gemstones, this one is highly resistant to environmental factors that can impact its clarity and brilliance.
The stone’s inherent durability and hardness ensure that it remains unaffected by everyday wear and tear, maintaining its original sparkle throughout the years.
While it is true that moissanite may develop a layer of oil, dirt, or grime from regular wear, a simple cleaning can restore its brilliance.
Comparing to Other Gemstones
To further understand moissanite’s resilience, it is beneficial to compare it with other gemstones commonly used in jewelry. Natural gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds can develop cloudiness or inclusions over time due to their natural formations.
The presence of impurities or structural flaws in these stones can affect their visual clarity and brilliance.
In contrast, moissanite’s lab-created nature allows for superior control over its clarity, making it less prone to developing imperfections that affect its brilliance. This characteristic sets it apart as a gemstone with long-lasting sparkle.
Maintenance and Care
While moissanite is highly resistant to clouding, proper maintenance is still essential to preserve its beauty over time. Regular cleaning using mild soapy water and a soft brush helps remove dirt and oils that can dull its shine.
Avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaning agents is crucial to prevent damage to the stone’s surface. Additionally, storing moissanite jewelry separately in a soft cloth or a jewelry box prevents potential scratches and protects its brilliance for years to come.
Enhancing the Brilliance
Despite its enduring sparkle, there are ways to enhance the brilliance of moissanite even further. Upgrading the stone’s cut can optimize light reflection and refraction, maximizing its scintillation.
Moissanite is typically cut in a manner that maximizes light return, but customized cuts such as hearts, ovals, or cushions can further enhance its beauty. Additionally, choosing a setting that allows ample light to enter and exit the stone can amplify its radiance, creating a dazzling effect.
Final Thoughts
Moissanite, a lab-created gemstone with its unique set of characteristics, does not typically become cloudy over time.
Thanks to its exceptional durability and resistance to environmental factors, moissanite maintains its initial sparkle and brilliance indefinitely. While regular cleaning and maintenance are advisable, the composition ensures its resistance to clouding, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a forever sparkler.
With its affordability and stunning visual appeal, moissanite continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts worldwide as a beautiful and long-lasting alternative to diamonds. Embrace the allure and enjoy its radiant beauty for a lifetime of sparkle.
