Does Moissanite Scratch? (And What Really Damages It)

Key Takeaways

• Moissanite ranks 9.25–9.5 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest substances on earth second only to diamonds, and it does not scratch easily under normal everyday wear conditions.
• Only materials of equal or greater hardness—like diamonds, other moissanite stones, or silicon carbide abrasives—are likely to scratch moissanite.
• Being highly resistant to scratching is not the same as being completely scratch proof; extreme tests or hard impacts can still mark or chip the stone.
• Moissanite is not completely immune to scratches or chips, so proper care is still required to maintain its durability and appearance.
• Proper care your moissanite by storing it in a lined jewelry box, cleaning regularly with mild soap and water, and having occasional professional jeweler check-ups to help maintain its brilliance and durability for decades.
• Most “cloudiness” that owners notice is actually dirt and oil buildup, not scratches, and can be easily cleaned away.

What Is Moissanite And Why People Ask About Scratches

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone composed of silicon carbide, originally discovered in 1893 when French chemist Henri Moissan found microscopic crystals in an Arizona meteor crater. The naturally occurring mineral is exceptionally rare, which is why virtually all moissanite used in jewelry today is synthesized in laboratories.

Since the late 1990s, moissanite has gained popularity as an alternative to diamonds for engagement rings and everyday jewelry. Its similar appearance to diamonds, combined with a significantly lower price point and fewer ethical concerns associated with mining, has made it a fantastic choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want that brilliant sparkle. Compared to diamonds, moissanite offers comparable brilliance and impressive durability, making it a strong contender for those seeking a diamond-like look without the higher cost.

Because moissanite is marketed as “almost as hard as diamond,” buyers naturally wonder whether it will scratch, cloud, or dull over time. This is a reasonable concern—nobody wants their ring to look worn out after a few years of daily wear.

Before diving into specifics, it helps to understand that gemstone durability has three main aspects: hardness (scratch resistance), toughness (resistance to chips and breaks), and stability (resistance to heat and chemicals). Moissanite performs well across all three, but this article focuses primarily on that first question everyone asks: does moissanite scratch? If you’re interested in a broader comparison, including how long does moissanite last compared to diamonds, check out this in-depth guide.

Does Moissanite Scratch? The Direct Answer

Under normal daily wear—office work, shopping, cooking, light chores—moissanite generally does not scratch. This isn’t marketing speak; it’s backed by the science of how mineral hardness works.

Moissanite measures around 9.25–9.5 on the Mohs scale, placing it just below diamond at 10 and above sapphires and rubies at approximately 9. This hardness rating of 9.25 means moissanite is an incredibly durable gemstone that resist scratches from nearly everything you encounter in daily life.

Most things your hands touch daily are softer than moissanite and physically cannot scratch it. Keys, wood, plastics, glass, steel, countertops, ceramic mugs, laptop keyboards—all of these materials rank lower on the hardness scale. When a softer material contacts a harder one, only the softer material can be damaged.

Real-world owners report wearing their moissanite engagement ring constantly for several years—some for 10+ years—with no visible scratching to the stone itself. The metal band may show wear and tear, but the moissanite stone remains as crisp and brilliant as the day they bought it.

One important note: moissanite can still get dirty or look dull from oils, soap film, lotion residue, and hard water deposits. People sometimes mistake this buildup for scratches. A quick cleaning with warm water and mild soap usually reveals that the stone underneath is perfectly smooth.

Understanding Moissanite Hardness And Scratches

Hardness measures scratch resistance specifically—not whether a stone will shatter or chip. A hard stone can still break if struck at the right angle; it just won’t get scratched by softer materials rubbing against it.

The Mohs scale, developed in 1812 by German geologist Friedrich Mohs, is a relative ranking system from 1 (talc, the softest) to 10 (diamond, the hardest). It measures which minerals can scratch others: a higher number always scratches a lower number, but not the reverse.

Here’s how moissanite compares to common materials:

Material	Mohs Hardness
Diamond	10
Moissanite	9.25–9.5
Sapphire/Ruby	9
Topaz	8
Quartz (common dust/sand)	7
Glass	5.5
Gold/Silver	2.5–4

Everyday dust often contains quartz particles at around 7 on the scale. This is why softer gemstones like opal (5–6) or tanzanite (6–7) can develop fine surface abrasion over time from simply being exposed to normal household dust. Moissanite, sitting at 9.25+, shrugs off these particles without issue.

The reason moissanite achieves such high hardness comes down to its chemical structure. Moissanite is a hard stone made of silicon carbide—the same base material used in some industrial abrasives and cutting tools. This composition creates an exceptionally durable gemstone that maintains its polish through years of daily wear.

Real-World Scratching: What Can Actually Mark Moissanite?

In practice, only a handful of materials or conditions can scratch moissanite. Understanding these exceptions helps you protect your jewelry without becoming paranoid about everyday activities.

Materials that can scratch moissanite:

• Diamonds – Including diamond dust on cutting tools, diamond-tipped files, or diamond jewelry stored touching moissanite
• Other moissanite stones – Two moissanite rings rubbing together in the same jewelry box can potentially abrade each other
• Silicon carbide abrasives – Certain high-grit sandpapers, grinding wheels, or industrial polishing compounds

The sandpaper question comes up frequently online. When people report that sandpaper scratched their moissanite, they’re almost always referring to silicon carbide sandpaper, which is close in hardness to moissanite itself. Standard aluminum oxide sandpaper typically won’t scratch moissanite, but silicon carbide paper—if rubbed aggressively—can leave a frosted or abraded surface.

This brings up an important principle: materials of similar hardness can abrade each other with enough pressure and friction. Extended rubbing with the right abrasive can leave marks even on very hard gems.

However, this is dramatically different from normal wear. Pocket change, car steering wheels, kitchen utensils, workout equipment, and common household items are all too soft to scratch moissanite. You don’t need to treat your moissanite jewelry like it’s made of glass—it’s far tougher than glass.

If you do notice visible scratches or a frosted appearance after rough treatment or a serious impact, take the piece to a professional jeweler. They can often repolish the surface and restore it to its original smoothness.

Moissanite Durability Beyond Scratches

Scratch resistance is just one component of moissanite’s overall durability profile. A gemstone can be extremely hard yet still vulnerable to other types of damage.

Toughness and chipping: Moissanite is tough enough for daily wear, but like diamond, it can chip at edges or points if struck sharply against hard surfaces. Faceted points—the corners of princess cuts, the sharp tips of pear or marquise shapes—are the most vulnerable areas. A hard knock against tile, concrete, or metal can chip these delicate edges even though the flat surfaces remain scratch-free. While moissanite is highly resistant to scratches, sharp impacts or blows can damage your moissanite, causing chips or breaks if enough force is applied.

Thermal stability: Moissanite has excellent thermal stability compared to many colored gems. It typically withstands normal jewelry repair temperatures, including standard soldering and sizing procedures. That said, sudden extreme temperature changes should still be avoided, and direct torch flame during unskilled repairs can potentially damage both the setting and the stone’s polish.

Setting security: Properly set moissanite in secure prongs, bezel settings, or halo designs has a very long service life—often decades. The stone’s hardness means it maintains sharp facet edges that keep light performance consistent. Occasional repolishing may be needed in rare damage cases, but most owners never require this service.

What Can Damage Moissanite (Even If It Doesn’t “Scratch Easily”)?

While moissanite scratch events are rare, other types of damage or appearance issues can still occur. Knowing these risks helps you avoid wearing your moissanite in situations that could potentially damage it.

Abrasives and hard impacts: Repeated blows on granite, concrete, or ceramic floors can chip a facet edge. Industrial silicon carbide tools, diamond paste, and certain grinding compounds can leave microscopic scratches or a frosted surface. If you work in construction, masonry, or metalworking, remove your ring before handling rough materials.

Everyday chemicals: Household bleach, strong oven cleaners, drain cleaners, and some harsh jewelry dips can attack metal settings or leave films on the stone. While moissanite itself is generally chemical-stable, residues can make it look hazy. Stick to mild soap and warm water for routine cleaning, and avoid wearing your moissanite jewelry during heavy cleaning sessions.

Heat exposure: Prolonged or extreme heat—like direct torch flame during unskilled soldering—can risk damage to both setting and stone polish. Normal cooking heat, hot water, dishwashing, or summer sun typically won’t harm moissanite. However, avoid wearing your ring during welding, metalsmithing, or other high-heat activities.

Mechanical stress: Strong pressure from ill-fitting prongs or bent settings can put stress on facet edges over time. Resizing or repairing a moissanite ring should be done by a jeweler familiar with the stone’s properties. Charles & Colvard, one of the leading moissanite producers, offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty protecting against damage—a sign of industry confidence in the stone’s durability when properly handled.

How To Prevent Scratches And Keep Moissanite Looking New

Simple habits go a long way in preserving your moissanite’s surface and sparkle. You don’t need elaborate care routines—just thoughtful practices that become second nature. Remember, care your moissanite jewelry properly to maintain its beauty and durability for years to come.

When to remove your jewelry:

• Heavy gym workouts with weights (dumbbells and barbells can impact rings)
• Yard work, masonry, or DIY projects involving tools and concrete
• Cleaning with abrasives, steel wool, or harsh chemicals
• Activities where the ring could snag or receive sharp impacts

Proper storage:

• Store moissanite rings and earrings separately in fabric-lined compartments or individual soft pouches
• Never toss moissanite pieces loose in a jewelry box where they can rub against diamonds, other moissanite, or hard metals
• A lined jewelry box with separate compartments is ideal for keeping all your pieces safe

Quick cleaning routine:

Using warm water, a drop of mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush, gently clean your moissanite every 1–2 weeks. Focus on the underside of the stone where oils and dirt accumulate. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth—a lint-free microfiber works perfectly. This prevents water spots that can mimic fine scratching.

Professional care:

For frequently worn engagement rings, have a professional jeweler check the setting and perform an ultrasonic or steam clean once or twice a year. They can spot loose prongs, worn settings, or other issues before they become problems. If you ever notice serious surface damage, a gemcutter can repolish the facets—don’t attempt DIY fixes with household polishes.

Moissanite Engagement Ring Options: Styles, Settings, and Suitability

Moissanite engagement rings have quickly become a favorite for couples seeking a stunning, durable gemstone that stands up to the demands of everyday wear. Thanks to its impressive hardness rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, moissanite is second only to diamonds among the hardest substances on earth, making it highly resistant to scratching and everyday wear and tear. This incredible durability means your moissanite ring will maintain its brilliance and fire for years, even with regular use.

When it comes to style, moissanite jewelry offers a wide variety of engagement ring options to suit every taste. Classic prong settings are especially popular, as they allow the moissanite stone to catch the light and showcase its sparkle—making it a true alternative to diamonds. For those who prefer a sleek, modern look, bezel settings encase the stone in a smooth metal rim, offering extra protection for the edges while highlighting the gem’s clarity. If you love vintage-inspired designs, halo settings surround the center moissanite with a circle of smaller diamonds or gemstones, creating a dazzling, eye-catching effect.

Moissanite engagement rings can also be customized with accent stones like sapphires or rubies, adding a personal touch and unique flair. Because moissanite is a hard stone, it pairs well with other gemstones in multi-stone designs, and its similar appearance to diamonds means it blends beautifully in mixed settings.

To keep your moissanite engagement ring looking its best, proper care and maintenance are key. While moissanite is less likely to scratch than softer gemstones, it’s important to avoid wearing your moissanite jewelry during activities that could expose it to hard impacts or harsh chemicals—such as gardening, heavy cleaning, or working with tools. When not wearing your ring, store it in a lined jewelry box or wrap it in a soft cloth to prevent contact with other hard stones or metals that could potentially cause scratches. Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water will help maintain the stone’s brilliance and remove any buildup that might dull its sparkle.

It’s important to note that while moissanite is an incredibly durable gemstone, no stone is entirely scratch proof. However, compared to other gemstones like sapphires or rubies, moissanite is less likely to show signs of wear, making it an excellent choice for engagement rings meant for daily wear.

As an eco friendly and ethical alternative to diamonds, moissanite has gained popularity among those who want a beautiful, long-lasting ring without the high cost or ethical concerns associated with mined diamonds. Whether you’re drawn to a classic solitaire, a glamorous halo, or a custom design featuring other gemstones, moissanite engagement rings offer versatility, durability, and timeless beauty—ensuring your jewelry remains a cherished symbol for years to come.

Moissanite vs. Diamonds And Other Stones For Scratch Resistance

When comparing diamonds moissanite and other gemstones for scratch resistance, moissanite holds its own remarkably well against much pricier alternatives.

Diamonds at 10 on the Mohs scale can technically scratch moissanite, but the practical difference between 9.25–9.5 and 10 is smaller than the numbers suggest. In everyday jewelry performance, both stones resist scratches from virtually all common materials you’ll encounter.

How moissanite compares to other popular stones:

Gemstone	Mohs Hardness	Daily Wear Suitability
Diamond	10	Excellent
Moissanite	9.25–9.5	Excellent
Sapphire/Ruby	9	Very Good
Emerald	7.5–8	Fair (scratches more easily)
Topaz	8	Good
Opal	5–6	Poor (scratches readily)

Sapphires and rubies, at approximately 9 on the scale, are slightly softer than moissanite and may show fine abrasion sooner under identical conditions. Emeralds (7.5–8) and opals (5–6) are much softer gemstones that are more likely to scratch or abrade where moissanite stays smooth.

Both moissanite and lab-grown diamonds make excellent choices for everyday jewelry, particularly engagement rings worn daily. Most people never notice a practical difference in scratch resistance between them during normal wear.

One consideration: because moissanite is extremely hard and often very clear, any surface marks that do occur can be more noticeable under magnification or harsh lighting. This is why good settings and proper storage remain important even for such a durable gemstone.

When Moissanite Actually Gets Scratched: Repair And Repolishing

Rare accidents or extreme tests—like rubbing moissanite with silicon carbide sandpaper—can leave real scratches. If this happens, don’t panic. Moissanite can often be professionally restored.

Typical damage scenarios:

• Intentionally testing hardness with abrasive papers or sharpening stones
• Dropping the ring on rough concrete and dragging it across the surface
• Prolonged contact with industrial abrasives at work (mechanics, stoneworkers, machinists)

Repair options:

A skilled gemstone cutter can repolish individual facets or the entire crown to remove scratches and restore a glass-smooth surface. Minimal material is usually removed, so the stone’s size and shape remain almost unchanged. Very deep gouges or chips might require minor re-cutting, but this is uncommon.

What doesn’t work:

• Over-the-counter polishing creams, metal polishes, or household abrasives will not remove real scratches from moissanite
• These products can damage your metal setting without helping the stone
• DIY mechanical polishing wheels without proper abrasives and experience risk overheating or further scratching

Next steps if you notice damage:

Take the ring to a trusted jeweler first. They can confirm whether marks are dirt/film or genuine scratches using magnification. If real damage exists, ask if they can handle moissanite repolishing in-house or recommend a specialist gemcutter familiar with silicon carbide stones.

The good news: even badly scratched moissanite can often be restored professionally. This should reduce anxiety for owners who accidentally damage their moissanite pieces.

Pros And Cons Of Moissanite As A Scratch-Resistant Stone

High hardness is a major advantage of moissanite, but understanding both benefits and limitations helps set realistic expectations.

Pros:

• Extremely high hardness (around 9.25–9.5) provides excellent resistance to everyday scratches
• Maintains a crisp, sharp polish for years with simple proper care and maintenance
• More resistant to fine abrasion than softer gemstones like topaz, garnet, tanzanite, or morganite
• Can be worn confidently for daily activities without constant worry
• Moissanite is less likely to show wear over time compared to most other gemstones used in jewelry

Cons/Limitations:

• Not entirely scratch proof—extreme abrasives and equal/harder materials can still mark it
• Chips can occur at corners and edges if struck, just as with diamonds and sapphires
• Because moissanite is very clear and bright, any surface damage can be visually noticeable under certain lighting or magnification
• Requires separate storage from diamonds and other moissanite to prevent scratches and keep it pristine

For most buyers, moissanite offers one of the best balances of price, beauty, and scratch resistance available in modern jewelry. It’s an eco friendly option without the ethical concerns of mined diamonds, and its durability makes it suitable for rings, earrings, and other pieces meant for everyday wear.

FAQ About Moissanite Scratches And Long-Term Wear

Will my moissanite engagement ring look scratched or cloudy after 5–10 years?

With normal wear and regular cleaning, the stone itself should still look clear and un-scratched after a decade or more. Most “cloudiness” people notice is actually a film of soap, lotion, or hard water deposits that builds up over time. A thorough cleaning with warm soapy water—or an ultrasonic clean at your jeweler—usually reveals that the stone underneath is as brilliant as ever. Moissanite is a popular choice precisely because it maintains its appearance through years of daily wear.

Can moissanite scratch glass, metal, or ceramic surfaces?

Yes, moissanite is hard enough to scratch materials like glass, most metals, and some ceramics if rubbed with pressure. This is actually a good indicator that moissanite is a hard stone. However, avoid using your ring as a tool—to test glass, open packages, or scrape surfaces—as this can potentially damage the stone’s delicate facet edges and whatever surface you’re scratching.

Is it safe to wear moissanite every day, including at work?

For office work, teaching, healthcare, retail, and similar professions, wearing your moissanite ring daily is completely fine. The stone can handle normal activities without issue. For jobs involving heavy machinery, stone, metal fabrication, or harsh chemicals, consider removing the ring during shifts or switching to a silicone band. This protects both the ring and your fingers from accidental impacts or chemical exposure.

Does moissanite lose its sparkle or change color over time?

Quality moissanite from reputable brands is stable in color and does not yellow or fade with age under normal conditions. Unlike some treated gemstones, moissanite’s optical properties are inherent to its crystal structure. Dirt, oils, and lotions can temporarily reduce sparkle by coating the surface, but regular cleaning restores full brilliance. Your moissanite should sparkle just as brightly at year 10 as it did on day one.

How can I tell if marks on my moissanite are real scratches or just dirt?

Start by thoroughly cleaning the stone with warm water and a drop of mild soap, using a soft brush to reach the underside. Rinse well and dry with a soft cloth. Examine the stone under bright light—natural daylight works best. If lines or haze remain after cleaning, take it to a jeweler who can inspect under 10x magnification to determine whether you’re looking at surface scratches, chips, internal inclusions, or something else entirely. An important note: what looks like scratching often turns out to be stubborn residue that needs professional cleaning rather than actual damage.