Does moissanite scratch over time? Real durability explained
It's one of the most common questions asked by those discovering moissanite for the first time. The answer is almost always the same: no, under normal use, moissanite does not scratch. But it's worth understanding why.
The Mohs scale and what it means for daily use
The hardness of a gemstone is measured on the Mohs scale, which ranges from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond). Moissanite has a hardness of 9.25 — the second highest of all stones available in jewelry. This means it can only be scratched by materials with superior hardness: diamond (10) and corundum (9, which includes ruby and sapphire). In everyday practice, there is nothing in your usual environment that can scratch moissanite.
What can theoretically scratch moissanite
Only diamonds and other moissanites can scratch a moissanite. This means that if you store several moissanite jewelry pieces together without protection, they could scratch each other. The solution is simple: store each piece in its individual pouch or box. Household dust, metals, glass, ceramics — none of these are hard enough to damage the surface of moissanite.
Moissanite vs. cubic zirconia in durability
Cubic zirconia has a hardness of 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it significantly more vulnerable to scratching than moissanite. With daily use — contact with surfaces, dust, cosmetics — cubic zirconia loses its brilliance within months because its surface gets micro-scratched. Moissanite retains its original brilliance for decades under the same conditions.
Moissanite vs. diamond in durability
Diamond is the only stone harder than moissanite. In daily use, the practical difference is negligible: both are virtually unscratchable under normal conditions. The advantage of diamond in hardness is relevant in industrial contexts, not in everyday jewelry.
How to keep moissanite in perfect condition
Although moissanite does not scratch, it can accumulate dirt and grease on its surface, temporarily reducing its brilliance. Cleaning it with warm water, neutral soap, and a soft brush every few weeks is enough to keep it with the same fire and brilliance as on day one. It does not require special treatments or specific products.
If you want to know more about moissanite, read is moissanite a real stone? and our comparison between cubic zirconia, moissanite, and diamond. Explore our collection of VVS moissanite jewelry in 925 silver.
