Moissanite jewelry can safely get wet without the water itself causing any damage. This durability stems from moissanite’s chemical composition—silicon carbide (SiC)—which creates an exceptionally hard (9.25-9.5 on the Mohs scale), non-porous crystal structure that naturally resists water absorption. This makes moissanite highly suitable for everyday wear, including situations where your hands might get wet[1][2].
However, understanding the complete picture of water exposure requires looking beyond just the stone itself. Let’s explore the important considerations for maintaining your moissanite jewelry’s beauty and longevity.
How Water Exposure Affects Moissanite Jewelry
The Stone: Naturally Water-Resistant
Pure water alone won’t damage your moissanite gemstone due to its chemical properties. Unlike some gemstones that can be porous or reactive, silicon carbide’s molecular structure creates a virtually impenetrable surface that water molecules cannot penetrate[1]. For comparison, diamonds (10 on the Mohs scale) offer similar water resistance, while cubic zirconia (8-8.5) may be slightly more vulnerable to long-term effects of moisture[3].
The Real Concern: Chemical Buildup
While water itself is harmless, the chemicals commonly dissolved in water can lead to problems:
- Residue formation: Chemicals in pools (chlorine), hot tubs, ocean (salt), and even soaps and lotions can gradually deposit a film on your moissanite’s surface. This buildup diminishes the stone’s fire, brilliance, and overall sparkle by interfering with light refraction[1][4].
- Long-term exposure effects: Repeated exposure to harsh chemicals may eventually affect the polish of the stone’s facets, slightly dulling its appearance until properly cleaned[4].
The Vulnerable Component: Metal Settings
While moissanite withstands water exposure admirably, the metal settings holding your stone are often more susceptible:
- Sterling silver will readily tarnish and potentially corrode when regularly exposed to moisture, particularly chlorinated or salt water[2][5].
- White gold contains rhodium plating that can wear away faster with frequent water exposure, particularly in chemical-laden environments[5].
- Yellow and rose gold (14k and 18k) offer better water resistance than silver but can still develop discoloration or weakening over time from chemical exposure[5].
- Platinum provides the greatest water and chemical resistance among common jewelry metals, though even it isn’t completely impervious to the effects of pool chemicals and saltwater over time[5][6].
Practical Moissanite Jewelry Care Guidelines
When to Remove Your Jewelry
- Before swimming in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean
- Prior to showering with soaps, shampoos, and body washes
- During household cleaning with chemical products
- Before applying lotions, perfumes, or hairsprays[5][6]
Effective Cleaning Routine
- Regular maintenance: Clean your moissanite jewelry every 2-4 weeks using warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Deep cleaning: For more stubborn buildup, soak in warm soapy water for 20-30 minutes before gentle brushing.
- Professional cleaning: Consider professional ultrasonic cleaning annually, especially for complex settings[6].
Smart Jewelry Selection
- Choose secure settings with prongs or bezels made from durable materials
- For everyday wear pieces that might encounter water frequently, consider platinum or 14k-18k gold settings
- For delicate or intricate settings, take extra precautions around water exposure[2][5]
Moissanite vs. Other Gemstones: Water Resistance Comparison
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Water Resistance | Chemical Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moissanite | 9.25-9.5 | Excellent | Very Good |
| Diamond | 10 | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cubic Zirconia | 8-8.5 | Good | Moderate |
| Sapphire | 9 | Very Good | Good |
| Emerald | 7.5-8 | Poor-Moderate | Poor |
| Pearl | 2.5-4.5 | Very Poor | Very Poor |
FAQs on Moissanite and Water
Q: Does moissanite lose sparkle when wet?
A: Temporarily, water droplets might affect light refraction, but this disappears once dry. Long-term sparkle loss only occurs from chemical buildup, which is removable through proper cleaning.
Q: Can I wash my hands normally while wearing moissanite rings?
A: Yes, regular hand washing with mild soap is completely safe for moissanite. Just ensure you dry the jewelry afterward and clean it periodically.
Q: How does moissanite compare to diamonds regarding water exposure?
A: Both moissanite and diamonds have excellent water resistance due to their high hardness and non-porous nature. The main difference lies in their settings and any treatments applied to the stones.
Q: Will swimming once with my moissanite jewelry damage it?
A: A single swimming session is unlikely to cause noticeable damage. However, repeated exposure to pool chemicals, particularly chlorine, can affect both the metal setting and eventually dull the stone’s appearance until cleaned.
Conclusion
Moissanite’s impressive physical and chemical properties make it exceptionally water-resistant—far more so than many other gemstones. The silicon carbide composition creates a durable, non-porous structure that can withstand regular contact with water without degradation.
However, the overall longevity of your moissanite jewelry depends on proper care, particularly regarding the metal settings. By removing jewelry during chemical-heavy activities, implementing a regular cleaning routine, and selecting appropriate settings for your lifestyle, you can maintain your moissanite’s breathtaking brilliance and fire for decades to come.
While moissanite requires less maintenance than many alternative gemstones, this minimal care will ensure your investment remains as stunning as the day you received it.
References
[1] Sprkl Jewelry, “Can Moissanite Get Wet?” Available at: https://sprkljewelry.com/blogs/news/can-moissanite-get-wet
[2] Diamondrensu, “How Does Water Affect Moissanite?” Available at: https://diamondrensu.com/blogs/news/can-you-shower-with-moissanite-engagement-ring
[3] International Gem Society, “Moissanite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information.” Available at: https://www.gemsociety.org/article/moissanite-jewelry-gemstone-information/
[4] Noor and Leila, “Can You Wear Moissanite in the Pool?” Available at: https://noorandleila.com/blogs/news/can-you-wear-moissanite-in-the-pool
[5] Noor & Leila, “Moissanite Jewelry Care Tips.” Available at: https://noorandleila.com/blogs/news/how-to-care-for-moissanite-jewelry
[6] Noor & Leila, “Effects of Pool Chemicals on Moissanite Jewelry.” Available at: https://noorandleila.com/blogs/news/can-you-wear-moissanite-in-the-pool
