Will Moissanite Lose Its Sparkle? The Real Truth About Cloudiness and Aging
Does Moissanite Get Cloudy Over Time?
Does moissanite get cloudy over time? This is one of the most common concerns Filipino buyers have before choosing a moissanite engagement ring. With so many myths online claiming that moissanite “turns dull” or “loses its sparkle,” it’s important to separate facts from misinformation.
The short answer: High-quality moissanite does NOT become permanently cloudy over time. However, like all fine jewelry, it can temporarily appear dull due to oil buildup, dirt, or improper cleaning.
At Endless Charms in Angeles City, we’ve helped thousands of couples choose premium moissanite rings, and we’ve seen firsthand how properly made stones maintain their brilliance for decades.
Understanding What Moissanite Is Made Of
Moissanite is not glass or cubic zirconia. It is made of silicon carbide, an extremely durable and stable compound originally discovered in meteorites.
This composition makes moissanite one of the hardest and most brilliant gemstones available today.
Key Properties of Moissanite
- 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale (diamonds are 10)
- Extremely high refractive index (more sparkle than diamond)
- Resistant to scratching and surface damage
- Stable chemical structure that does not degrade
Because of its chemical stability, moissanite does not oxidize, fade, or break down over time. The stone itself does not structurally turn cloudy.
Why Some People Think Moissanite Gets Cloudy
There are three main reasons this myth continues to circulate:
- Confusion with cubic zirconia
- Oil and dirt buildup
- Low-quality or poorly cut stones
Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia: The Clouding Confusion
Many buyers mistakenly group moissanite with cubic zirconia (CZ). This confusion is where most “cloudy stone” stories originate.
Cubic Zirconia
- Softer stone (8–8.5 Mohs)
- Scratches more easily
- Can lose clarity over time
- Becomes dull with wear
Moissanite
- Harder and more durable
- Maintains surface polish
- Retains internal clarity
- Does not structurally degrade
If someone experienced permanent cloudiness, it was most likely cubic zirconia — not authentic moissanite.
The Real Reason Moissanite Can Look Dull
Moissanite naturally attracts oil slightly more than diamonds due to its surface properties. This does NOT mean it becomes permanently cloudy — it simply means it needs regular cleaning.
Common Causes of Temporary Dullness
- Hand lotion residue
- Soap and shampoo buildup
- Natural skin oils
- Sunscreen film
- Dust and pollution
In the Philippines, humidity and pollution can accelerate surface buildup, especially in cities like Angeles, Manila, and Cebu. When residue blocks light from entering the stone, sparkle decreases temporarily.
The good news: this is completely reversible with proper cleaning.
Does Moissanite Turn Yellow Over Time?
Modern high-quality moissanite does not turn yellow permanently.
Important Color Distinctions
- D–F color moissanite stays colorless
- G–H may show slight warmth in certain lighting
- Early-generation moissanite (early 2000s) had color limitations
Today’s premium moissanite is significantly improved in clarity and color stability.
Scientific Durability of Moissanite
Moissanite scores 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones used in jewelry.
Hardness Comparison
- Diamond: 10
- Moissanite: 9.25
- Sapphire: 9
- Cubic Zirconia: 8–8.5
This hardness means moissanite resists scratching, maintains polish, and keeps its clarity for decades. Cloudiness caused by micro-scratches is extremely rare.
How Long Does Moissanite Last?
Moissanite is designed for lifetime wear. It does not fade, crack easily, or lose its brilliance permanently.
With proper care, a moissanite engagement ring can look just as stunning 20 years from now as it does the day you receive it.
How to Keep Your Moissanite Sparkling
Simple Home Cleaning Steps
- Mix warm water with mild dish soap
- Soak your ring for 10–15 minutes
- Gently brush using a soft toothbrush
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water
- Dry with a lint-free cloth
For daily wearers, cleaning once every 1–2 weeks is ideal.
Avoid These Cleaning Mistakes
- Bleach or harsh chemicals
- Abrasive cleaners
- Rough scrubbing tools
Professional Cleaning vs Home Cleaning
While home cleaning works well, professional servicing provides deeper maintenance.
Benefits of Professional Cleaning
- Ultrasonic deep cleaning
- Prong and setting inspection
- Stone security check
- Professional polishing
We recommend yearly professional inspections to maintain long-term brilliance.
Environmental Factors in the Philippines
Tropical climates can cause faster oil buildup due to humidity and sweat.
- Frequent outdoor activity may cause faster residue accumulation
- Sunscreen use increases surface film
- Urban pollution contributes to dullness
Again, this affects surface cleanliness — not the stone’s internal structure.
Can Cheap Moissanite Become Cloudy?
Low-grade or poorly cut moissanite can appear milky or dull from the beginning.
Warning Signs of Low-Quality Stones
- Visible haziness even when clean
- Poor light reflection
- Uneven cut symmetry
- Lack of certification
This is why buying from a reputable jeweler is essential.
Moissanite vs Diamond: Which Stays Clear Longer?
Both moissanite and diamonds remain clear long-term.
- Diamonds attract slightly less oil
- Moissanite may need slightly more frequent cleaning
- Neither stone becomes permanently cloudy
Both are suitable for daily lifetime wear.
Common Myths About Moissanite
Myth #1: Moissanite turns cloudy after a few years
Fact: High-quality moissanite remains clear permanently.
Myth #2: Moissanite scratches easily
Fact: It is one of the hardest gemstones available.
Myth #3: Moissanite loses its sparkle
Fact: Sparkle only decreases if dirty — not from aging.
Myth #4: Moissanite turns yellow
Fact: Modern colorless moissanite is color stable.
How to Tell If Your Moissanite Is Authentic
- Request certification
- Buy from established jewelers
- Ask for authenticity guarantees
- Verify with proper testing tools
Authentic moissanite will not permanently cloud or fade.
Why Filipino Couples Are Choosing Moissanite
Moissanite offers a practical yet luxurious option for couples balancing engagement, wedding, and future savings.
- Larger carat appearance for lower cost
- Exceptional sparkle
- Long-term durability
- Budget flexibility
Conclusion: Does Moissanite Get Cloudy?
No — high-quality moissanite does not become permanently cloudy over time. Any temporary dullness is caused by surface residue, not internal damage.
With proper care, authentic moissanite remains brilliant, durable, and beautiful for a lifetime.
If you're considering a moissanite engagement ring, choose a trusted jeweler who prioritizes quality, certification, and long-term durability.