No. Moissanite does not get cloudy or lose its sparkle over time. It is chemically stable and extremely hard, so the stone itself does not degrade. What people mistake for "cloudiness" is a temporary film of oils, lotion, soap, and dust on the surface, and it wipes away with a simple cleaning.
Why moissanite does not actually cloud
Moissanite is silicon carbide, one of the hardest materials on earth at 9.25 on the Mohs scale. It is chemically inert, meaning it does not react with air, water, or skin, and it will not oxidize, fade, or go dull from wear. Unlike some cheaper stones, moissanite holds its clarity and fire for a lifetime. So if a moissanite piece looks hazy, the stone is not the problem. The surface is.
What actually causes the "cloudy" look
Everyday life leaves a residue on any gemstone. The usual culprits:
- Skin oils and sweat that build up with regular wear.
- Lotion, sunscreen, and makeup that coat the stone.
- Soap and hairspray film from showers and getting ready.
- Dust and grime trapped under and around the setting.
That thin layer scatters light instead of letting it pass through cleanly, which reads as dullness or cloudiness. Clean it off and the full brilliance comes right back.
How to restore the sparkle in 2 minutes
- Mix a bowl of warm water with a little mild dish soap.
- Soak the piece for a few minutes to loosen buildup.
- Gently scrub around and behind the stone with a soft toothbrush.
- Rinse in clean water and dry with a lint-free cloth.
Do this every couple of weeks with regular wear, avoid harsh chemicals, and your moissanite will stay brilliant indefinitely. The clarity that makes a high-grade stone shine is worth understanding, so see our guide to VVS moissanite and how it stays durable for everyday wear. Shop our moissanite chains and 925 silver chains for pieces built to shine for the long haul.
Frequently asked questions
Does moissanite get cloudy over time?
No. Moissanite is chemically stable and never permanently clouds or loses its sparkle. A cloudy appearance is caused by surface buildup of oils and residue, which cleans off easily.
Why does my moissanite look dull or foggy?
It is almost always a film of skin oils, lotion, soap, or dust on the surface scattering the light. A quick clean with warm water and mild soap restores full brilliance.
How often should I clean my moissanite?
For everyday-wear pieces, a gentle clean every couple of weeks keeps moissanite sparkling. Wipe it down after applying lotions or perfume to prevent buildup.