Sparkle Now, Sparkle Forever: Will Moissanite Fade Over Time?
Sparkle Now, Sparkle Forever: Will Moissanite Fade Over Time?
Let’s talk about something that’s probably crossed your mind if you’re considering moissanite for an engagement ring, wedding band, or a special jewelry piece: Will moissanite fade over time? You’re not alone in wondering. After all, jewelry is an investment—not just financially, but emotionally. You want something that stays as radiant as the day you first slipped it on.
So, let’s cut to the chase: No, moissanite does not fade, lose its color, or turn cloudy with age. But why? And how does it compare to other gems like diamonds? Let’s dive into the glittering details.
What Exactly Is Moissanite?
Moissanite isn’t just a “diamond alternative.” It’s a gemstone with its own unique story. Discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan in a meteor crater, natural moissanite is incredibly rare. What you see in jewelry today is lab-created moissanite, engineered to replicate its natural counterpart’s brilliance and durability.
This gemstone is made of silicon carbide, a compound that gives it exceptional hardness and refractive properties. In fact, moissanite’s “fire” (that rainbow-like sparkle) is even higher than a diamond’s. But we’ll get to that later.
Does Moissanite Fade Over Time?
Short answer: Nope. But let’s unpack why moissanite stays so dazzling, decade after decade.
The Science of Staying Power
Moissanite scores a 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, a universal measure of gemstone durability maintained by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This makes it one of the hardest gemstones on Earth—second only to diamonds (which rank 10). This hardness means it’s highly resistant to scratches, chips, and everyday wear. But durability isn’t just about toughness; it’s also about chemical stability.
Moissanite’s atomic structure doesn’t degrade when exposed to heat, light, or chemicals. Even if you take it to a jeweler for resizing (which involves high heat), it won’t lose its clarity or color. Industry experts confirm that moissanite maintains its brilliance indefinitely under normal conditions, thanks to its lab-engineered perfection.
What About Cloudiness?
You might’ve heard rumors about moissanite getting cloudy. Here’s the truth: cloudiness is almost always caused by surface grime, not the stone itself. Moissanite is non-porous, so oils, lotions, and dirt can’t seep into it—they just sit on top. A quick clean with warm water and mild soap restores its sparkle.
As any jeweler will tell you, “Any gemstone can look dull if it’s dirty. Moissanite is no exception—but its fix is simple.”
Color Retention: From “Forever” to Flawless
Early moissanite had a faint yellow or gray tint under certain lighting. But thanks to advancements in gemstone technology, colorless moissanite (graded D-E-F) now rivals top-tier diamonds. Modern production techniques have eliminated undertones, ensuring your stone stays crisp and clear.
Temporary color shifts can happen in specific lighting (like LED or fluorescent), but these are optical illusions, not permanent changes. Rest assured: moissanite’s color is stable. What you see is what you get—forever.
Moissanite vs Diamond: A Side-by-Side Showdown
Let’s settle the debate once and for all. How does moissanite stack up against the OG gemstone?
| Feature | Moissanite | Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 9.25 on Mohs scale | 10 on Mohs scale |
| Brilliance | Higher refractive index (2.65 vs 2.42) | Less “fire,” more white sparkle |
| Cost | 90% less expensive | Premium price |
| Eco-Ipact | Lab-created, minimal mining | Often mined |
| Color Stability | No fading or yellowing | No fading (unless treated) |
Diamonds win on hardness, but moissanite outshines them in brilliance and affordability. Both are lifelong stones, but moissanite’s ethical and budget-friendly edge makes it a modern favorite.
Caring for Your Moissanite: Keep It Sparkling
Even though moissanite is low-maintenance, a little TLC ensures it stays head-turning:
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Clean it monthly: Soak in warm water with dish soap, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, and rinse.
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Avoid harsh chemicals: Remove your ring before swimming (chlorine) or using cleaners.
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Store safely: Keep it separate from other jewelry to prevent scratches.
Pro tip from jewelers: “If your stone looks dull, it’s time for a bath—not a panic attack.”
The Bottom Line: Moissanite is Forever, Too
Moissanite isn’t just a “stone for now.” It’s a gem that’ll keep up with your life—through workouts, gardening, travel, and everything in between. Its resistance to fading, scratching, and cloudiness makes it a practical and beautiful choice.
So, if you’re torn between moissanite and diamond, ask yourself: Do you want tradition, or a stone that’s equally eternal but kinder to your wallet and the planet? Either way, moissanite’s staying power is undeniable.
Final Thought: Jewelry should tell a story, not stress you out. With moissanite, you get a gem that’s as resilient as your love—bright, unyielding, and ready to shine through every chapter.
Ready to explore moissanite? Visit our Moissanite Stardust Collection to find a piece that’s as timeless as you are. 💍✨
