View of a marquise cut moissanite ring highlighting its clarity, sparkle and resistance to cloudiness

Does Moissanite Get Cloudy? What You Should Know Before Buying

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View of a sparkling moissanite engagement ring showing its clarity and what causes moissanite to become cloudy

You have been wearing your moissanite ring every day, and one morning it doesn't seem quite as brilliant as it did when you first opened the box. Has the stone lost its sparkle? Is it starting to look cloudy?

It's one of the most common concerns people have before buying moissanite, and it's also one of the biggest misconceptions.

The good news is that high-quality moissanite does not naturally become cloudy or lose its brilliance over time. If your stone looks dull or hazy, there's usually a simple reason behind it, and in most cases it's easy to fix.

So before you cross moissanite off your list for an engagement ring, wedding band, or everyday jewelry, let's take a closer look at what really affects its sparkle and whether cloudiness is something you need to worry about.

Does Moissanite Get Cloudy?

Moissanite does not become permanently cloudy over time. If your moissanite starts looking dull or less sparkly, it's usually because of everyday buildup from lotions, soaps, skin oils, or dust rather than any change in the stone itself.

In fact, this will not change the stone. Moissanite is designed to hold its clarity and brilliance over the years.

What Causes Moissanite to Appear Cloudy?

If you've ever wondered what causes moissanite to become cloudy or dull, the answer is usually related to everyday wear.

Common Causes of Cloudiness or Hazy Appearance

Cause

How It Affects the Stone

Skin oils

Creates a film that reduces sparkle

Lotion and cosmetics

Leaves residue on the surface

Soap buildup

Makes the stone appear dull

Hard water deposits

Can create a cloudy-looking layer

Dirt and dust

Blocks light from entering the stone

These factors can make even the highest-quality moissanite look less brilliant.

So, if you're asking:

Does anything cause moissanite to get cloudy looking?

Yes, but the cloudiness is typically temporary and easy to remove.

Why Doesn't Moissanite Become Cloudy?

One of the biggest reasons people choose moissanite is that it stays bright and clear for years. Unlike some gemstones that can lose their shine due to surface damage or chemical changes, moissanite is extremely stable and durable. If a moissanite stone ever looks dull, it's usually because of oil, lotion, soap residue, or everyday dirt on the surface, not because the gemstone itself has become cloudy.

Here's why moissanite maintains its sparkle:

Hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale: Its excellent hardness makes it highly resistant to scratches that can reduce a stone's brilliance over time.

Made from lab created silicon carbide: This advanced crystal structure is naturally stable and designed to retain its optical properties.

Highly resistant to scratching: The surface stays smooth, allowing light to pass through and reflect properly.

Doesn't absorb moisture: Unlike some porous materials, moissanite doesn't trap water or oils inside the stone.

Chemically stable during normal wear: Everyday exposure to sunlight, water, household products, and regular use won't cause the stone to become cloudy.

Expert Tip: If your moissanite appears less sparkly, a quick cleaning with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush will usually restore its original brilliance in just a few minutes.

Does Moissanite Get Cloudy Like Cubic Zirconia? 

Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia may look similar, but they hold up very differently.

Cubic Zirconia may look sparkling and appealing at first; however, over time it may be susceptible to small scratches from everyday use. As scratches accumulate, the stone will appear cloudy and lose its shine.

Moissanite is far more durable and is resistant to scratching. It can withstand cloudy effects from daily use.

Does moissanite get cloudy like cubic zirconia?

No, quality moissanite retains its clarity far better than cubic zirconia.

Will Moissanite Turn Your Finger Green?

Another common concern is whether moissanite jewelry can discolor your skin.

The stone itself cannot turn your finger green. If discoloration occurs, it's usually caused by the metal used in the setting rather than the stone.

The effects are far less likely to happen if the setting is of higher quality gold, platinum and sterling silver.

When purchasing moissanite jewelry, pay attention to both the stone and the metal quality.

How to Keep Moissanite Sparkling: Cleaning and Care Tips

The easiest way to maintain your stone's brilliance is through regular cleaning.

How to Prevent Moissanite From Getting Cloudy

A few simple habits can make a big difference:

  • Remove jewelry before applying lotions or sunscreen.

  • Take rings off during household cleaning.

  • Avoid exposing jewelry to harsh chemicals.

  • Clean your jewelry regularly.

  • Store pieces separately when not in use.

These steps can help prevent buildup and keep your stone looking its best.

Which Cleaning Products Are Safe for Moissanite Jewelry?

Safe options include:

  • Mild dish soap

  • Warm water

  • Soft toothbrush

  • Jewelry cleaning cloth

Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals that may affect the metal setting.

How to Make Moissanite Sparkle Again

If your stone has lost some of its brilliance, don't panic. A quick cleaning often restores its appearance.

1.  Fill a bowl with warm water and mild dish soap.

2.  Soak the jewelry for 10 - 15 minutes.

3.  Gently brush around the stone.

4.  Rinse thoroughly.

5.  Dry with a soft lint-free cloth.

Many people are surprised by how much sparkle returns after a proper cleaning.

Can Moissanite Be Restored If It Gets Cloudy?

Yes, in most situations, what appears to be cloudiness is simply surface residue. Once cleaned, the stone typically returns to its original brilliance.

Professional jewelry cleaning can also help remove stubborn buildup.

Moissanite vs Diamond: Which One Stays Clearer? 

The moissanite vs diamond debate often focuses on sparkle, durability, and maintenance.

Here's a quick comparison:

Feature

Moissanite

Diamond

Natural clouding

No

No

Everyday brilliance

Excellent

Excellent

Requires cleaning

Yes

Yes

Durability

Excellent

Excellent

Value

More affordable

Higher cost

Both can look dull if they are covered in oils and residue. Regular cleaning is more important than the choice of stone.

How Long Does It Take for Moissanite to Fade?

Moissanite does not fade over time, lose color, or diminish sparkle. With regular maintenance and cleaning, Moissanite can continue to look the same years after purchase as it did the day you bought it.

This trait is part of the reason why Moissanite is becoming so popular for wedding rings and bands, and for daily use jewelry.

Looking for Moissanite Jewelry That Stays Brilliant? 

Choosing a quality stone is just as important as cleaning and maintenance.

At Golden Bird Jewels, you can explore a wide range of moissanite jewelry designed to maintain its sparkle for years to come.

Moissanite Engagement Rings

If you are preparing to propose, check out our collection of moissanite engagement rings. We have rings that feature classic, solitaire designs as well as vintage styles with intricate designs. Every ring is designed and crafted with care to capture the beauty of Moissanite and to help you select a ring that is as special as your engagement.

Moissanite Wedding Rings & Wedding Bands

We have moissanite wedding bands and moissanite wedding rings in a variety of designs for those who want something they can wear daily. They include beautiful, elegant bands that have designs that are made to pair with engagement rings and wedding bands and are made to be worn daily.

Moissanite Earrings

Our moissanite earring collection has sparkly earrings for any occasion and pairs beautifully with other earrings. Moissanite stud earrings are a perfect elegant choice for everyday wear.

Moissanite Bracelets

Moissanite bracelets are the perfect choice for adding lustrous stones to your collection. Moissanite’s fire and brilliance are truly exceptional, as is its durability. Whether you choose a classic tennis bracelet or a more contemporary design, Moissanite can be worn seamlessly day-to-day and for every special occasion.

Moissanite allows for a variety of designs and Golden Bird Jewels has the ability to create custom jewelry, which means you can choose the perfect design and special stone to create a piece that is personal and meaningful.

Final Thoughts

So, does moissanite get cloudy?

Not permanently. High-quality moissanite maintains its clarity, brilliance, and sparkle for years. Most cloudy looking stones simply need a good cleaning to remove everyday residue.

If you are looking for a durable, beautiful, and budget-friendly alternative to diamonds, moissanite remains one of the best choices available today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does moissanite get cloudy over time?

No. Genuine moissanite will never fade. It is suggested that Moissanite haze is largely caused by dirt, oil and moisture buildup on the surface.

Can I shower with moissanite ring?

Yes. Water won't damage moissanite, but soap residue can build up on the surface and temporarily reduce its sparkle.

Can I wear it every day?

Absolutely. With a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is durable enough for everyday wear.

Can moissanite scratch?

Moissanite is highly scratch-resistant, but it isn't completely scratch-proof. Only very hard materials, such as diamonds, can scratch it.

Will it look cloudy after 10 years?

No. Genuine moissanite does not become cloudy over time. Regular cleaning is all that's needed to keep it looking brilliant.

Can hand sanitizer damage moissanite?

No, hand sanitizer won't damage the stone. However, it can leave a film on the surface that temporarily dulls its sparkle until cleaned.

Can sunscreen affect sparkle?

Yes. Sunscreen can leave an oily residue on the stone, making it appear less brilliant until it's wiped or washed clean..

How to make moissanite sparkle again?

Gentle brushing of the stone after soaking it in warm soapy water is the best cleaning method. Be sure to rinse and dry with a soft cloth.