Will Moissanite Scratch Over Time?

When choosing fine jewelry for daily wear, durability is just as important as appearance. One of the most common questions buyers ask before committing is simple but critical:
will moissanite scratch over time?

The short answer is no — not under normal wear.
The long answer explains why moissanite is one of the most scratch-resistant gemstones used in modern jewelry.

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Understanding Scratch Resistance

Scratch resistance is measured using the Mohs scale of hardness, which ranks materials based on their ability to resist scratching.

• Diamond: 10

• Moissanite: 9.25

• Sapphire / Ruby: 9

• Emerald: 7.5–8

Moissanite is harder than every natural gemstone except diamond. This means that in everyday situations, it cannot be scratched by common materials such as keys, glass, metal surfaces, or dust particles.

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What Can Actually Scratch Moissanite?

In practical terms, only materials as hard or harder than moissanite can scratch it. These include:

• Diamond

• Certain industrial abrasives

This makes accidental scratching extremely unlikely in daily life. Normal contact with clothing, countertops, or everyday objects will not damage the stone.

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Scratch Resistance vs Durability

Hardness determines scratch resistance, but durability also includes toughness — resistance to chipping or cracking.

Moissanite has excellent toughness due to its crystal structure. While diamond is harder, it can be more brittle and prone to chipping under sharp impact. Moissanite is slightly more forgiving in this regard, making it well suited for daily wear.

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Does Moissanite Lose Its Polish Over Time?

No. Moissanite does not lose its polish or surface finish through normal wear. Its high hardness ensures that facet edges remain sharp and reflective for decades.

Any perceived dullness over time is almost always caused by surface residue from oils, soap, or lotions — not scratches. Proper cleaning restores full brilliance.

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How Moissanite Compares to Other Stones

• Cubic zirconia: Can scratch and cloud over time

• Softer gemstones: Show wear and surface damage relatively quickly

• Moissanite: Maintains clarity, polish, and brilliance long term

This is one of the reasons moissanite is widely chosen for engagement rings, pavé jewelry, and pieces intended for frequent wear.

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Can Moissanite Be Worn Every Day?

Yes. Moissanite is engineered for daily use. With basic care and normal handling, it will maintain its appearance without special precautions.

Removing jewelry during heavy physical activity or contact with hard surfaces is still recommended — not because moissanite is fragile, but to protect the setting and metal, not the stone.

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The Takeaway

Moissanite does not scratch over time under normal wear. Its hardness, toughness, and structural stability place it among the most durable gemstones available.

For buyers seeking a gemstone that combines brilliance with long-term performance, moissanite is not just a safe choice — it is a practical one.