How to Clean Moissanite Rings

Brilliant, durable and affordable, the moissanite gemstone is a thing of exceptional beauty. Outshining the diamond with its high refractive index, it is immensely popular amongst jewellery lovers.

Its popularity is driven by the fact that it is affordable, a fraction of the cost of diamonds, yet it still offers a luxurious look.

A lab-created stone, moissanite is an ethical and eco-friendly alternative to mined gemstones, which appeals to those who want a sustainable option. Its resemblance to diamonds makes moissanite a top choice for engagement rings and fine jewellery. 

As well as being attractive to the eye, the moissanite is suitable for everyday use as it has a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, just slightly behind the diamond, making it less resistant to scratches and chips. But being worn every day will in time cause dirt and debris to build up in crevices. Caring for your moissanite jewellery is imperative to keeping it looking like new.

Fortunately, cleaning moissanite rings is a simple procedure that will ensure the quality of your ring is sustained for years to come.

What is Moissanite?

With the look of a diamond, you would be forgiven for believing moissanites are naturally made, when in fact they are man-made. Originally discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan, moissanite is a gemstone made of silicon carbide (SiC). He stumbled upon his discovery when examining particles from a meteorite crater in Arizona. He initially mistook the particles for diamonds, but upon further inspection identified them as a completely different mineral.

Originally a natural substance, moissanite is so rare that it has to be created in a lab; but it is made of the same chemical make-up as the original, preserving its authenticity.

Imagine a stone more brilliant than a diamond; well, that’s what you get with moissanite. With its high refractive index, it displays more fire (rainbow light dispersion) than diamonds and exhibits a slightly more colourful sparkle when under light. It is just as durable as the diamond, positioning in at 9.25, the second hardest gemstone, so is ideal for engagement rings and other frequently worn jewellery. Yet, it is much more affordable than the diamond and is environmentally and ethically friendly. 

Looking for a dazzling, durable, and budget-friendly alternative to traditional diamonds? Then look no further than a moissanite.

 

How to Clean Moissanite Engagement Ring and Other Jewellery

At Home

Cleaning moissanite rings at home is a simple task, yet it helps maintain its brilliance. To get started, you will need warm water, mild dish soap, an extra soft-bristled toothbrush or a jewellery cleaning brush and a microfiber or lint-free cloth:

1. Prepare the cleaning solution by adding a few drops of the dish soap to a bowl of warm water.
2. Soak the ring for 5-10 mins in the cleaning solution to loosen dirt and oils.
3. With the soft bristled brush, gently scrub the ring, focusing on focusing on the stone and hard-to-reach areas like prongs and crevices.
4. Rinse under cold/lukewarm water to remove residue.
5. Pat dry with the cloth and polish to restore shine.

Tips:Try to avoid harsh chemical or abrasive materials that could damage the metal setting and clean your ring on a regular basis to maintain its sparkle and shine.

Professionally

Cleaning your moissanite rings at home is highly recommended, but it is also encouraged to get a professional, deep clean annually:

1. Ultrasonic Cleaning:High-frequency sound waves create tiny bubbles in a cleaning solution which gently but effectively remove dirt and debris from the ring, including hard-to-reach areas
2. Steam Cleaning: High-pressure steam is used to remove grease, dirt, and oils from the jewellery. It is particularly effective for restoring the brilliance of moissanite and giving a polished appearance.
3. Professional Jewellery Cleaners: Professional jewellers use specialised cleaning solutions, formulated to clean moissanite and other gemstones safely. After cleaning, the jeweller will inspect the piece for loose stones or damaged settings and will tighten or repair if required. They will also polish the metal, removing any scratches and tarnish.

Tips: Get a professional clean every 6–12 months for regular maintenance.

Note, that while moissanite is safe for ultrasonic and steam cleaning, the metal setting and other gemstones will need to be evaluated before proceeding

What to do and What Not to do to Care for Your Moissanite Ring

Knowing how to clean your moissanite engagement ring is important, but it takes more than soap and water to care for it. To keep it looking its very best, follow these simple rules:

Do…

• Store Safely: Make sure your moissanite pieces are stored in a soft-lined jewellery box or pouch to prevent scratching other jewellery or being scratched.
• Keep an Eye on it: Inspect your ring frequently, so as not to miss settings or prongs being out of place.
• Remove During Activities: Remove your ring when partaking in rigorous activities like sports, heavy lifting, or gardening to prevent damage to the setting or metal.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep moissanite away from bleach, chlorine, or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the metal or dull the stone.
• Have Insurance: No matter how much we take care of your jewellery, there’s always the chance that it can be stolen or lost. Having insurance in place gives us peace of mind and financial protection.

Don’t…

• Use Abrasive Materials: When cleaning your ring, avoid using rough sponges or brushes that can scratch the metal and dull its shine.
• Expose to Extreme Heat: While moissanite is durable and heat-resistant, exposure to extreme temperatures can eventually damage the setting.
• Avoid Prolonged Soaking: Soaking in water or cleaning solutions for longer than necessary may weaken adhesives in certain settings.
• Overlook Maintenance: While home cleaning and care may be preferred, avoiding professional inspections or cleaning can lead to loose stones or unnoticed wear and tear.

Moissanite Engagements Rings at Vinny&Charles

At Vinny&Charles, our high-quality, sustainable jewellery is our pride and joy. Our moissanite is sourced ethically, a perfect alternative to the diamond and with our wide selection of moissanite rings you’ll be spoilt for choice.

We want you to enjoy your treasured jewel for a lifetime so treat your moissanite engagement ring like the precious investment it is. Follow our guidelines, to retain the dazzling appearance of your moissanite ring and preserve your cherished piece for years!