Moissanite is a stunning and durable gemstone that has gained popularity as an alternative to diamonds. Discovered in a meteorite, it’s now primarily lab-created and known for its exceptional brilliance and fire. While it’s resilient, proper care is essential to maintain its beauty and longevity. This guide will provide you with practical tips on cleaning, handling, and maintaining your Moissanite jewelry to ensure it remains in top condition.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a mineral composed of silicon carbide, first found in a meteorite in 1893. Today, it’s mostly created in laboratories due to its rarity in nature. It’s prized for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant sparkle and fire that can rival or even surpass that of diamonds. Additionally, Moissanite is quite durable, with a hardness of 9.25 to 9.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear.

Daily Cleaning and Maintenance

To keep your Moissanite jewelry looking its best, regular cleaning is necessary. Over time, dirt, oil, and makeup can accumulate on the gemstone, dulling its luster. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to cleaning your Moissanite jewelry:

Prepare a Cleaning Solution:

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap or baby shampoo with warm water in a small bowl.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as they can damage the setting or the gemstone itself.

Soak the Jewelry:

Submerge the Moissanite jewelry in the soapy water for about 10-20 minutes. This allows any dirt or grime to loosen.

Brush Gently:

Use a soft-bristled brush, such as a toothbrush, to gently scrub the gemstone and the setting. Pay special attention to the areas between the stones and the metal prongs, where dirt can accumulate.

Rinse Thoroughly:

After brushing, rinse the jewelry under warm running water to remove all soap and loosened dirt.

Dry with a Soft Cloth:

Pat the jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using paper towels, as they can leave lint or scratches.

Handling and Storage

Proper handling and storage are crucial to prevent damage to your Moissanite jewelry.

Remove Before Harsh Activities:

Take off your Moissanite jewelry when engaging in activities that could subject it to extreme heat, chemicals, or physical impact, such as gardening, sports, or household chores.

Store Individually:

Store each piece of jewelry separately in a soft cloth pouch or a jewelry box with dividers to prevent scratching from other pieces.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures:

While Moissanite is heat-resistant, sudden temperature changes can still affect the setting. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold.

Professional Care

Regular professional cleaning is recommended to maintain the pristine condition of your Moissanite jewelry.

Annual Cleaning:

Have your jewelry professionally cleaned at least once a year to remove any built-up residue that home cleaning might miss.

Check Settings:

Periodically, have a jeweler check the settings to ensure that the gemstone is secure. This is important to prevent the stone from loosening or falling out over time.

Special Considerations

Heat Resistance:

Moissanite is highly heat-resistant, with a higher tolerance than diamonds. However, during jewelry repairs involving heat, it’s important to follow proper cooling procedures to maintain the stone’s integrity.

Chemical Resistance:

Moissanite is resistant to most chemicals, but it’s still advisable to remove your jewelry when using strong chemicals or lotions.

Ultrasonic Cleaning:

Many jewelers use ultrasonic cleaners to clean Moissanite jewelry. If you have access to an ultrasonic cleaner, it’s a safe and effective way to clean Moissanite. However, for most people, the simple soap and water method is sufficient and convenient.

Conclusion

By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your Moissanite jewelry remains beautiful and lasts for years to come. Remember, a little bit of care goes a long way in preserving the luster and value of your precious belongings.

Caring for your Moissanite jewelry is straightforward with the right knowledge and tools. By cleaning it regularly, handling it with care, and seeking professional maintenance when needed, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Moissanite for a lifetime.