1. The Science Behind Moissanite's Durability
Understanding Moissanite’s Resilience to Water
Moissanite is renowned for its durability, boasting remarkable hardness and resilience. Composed primarily of silicon carbide, this gemstone ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it extremely resistant to scratches and general wear. This chemical composition allows Moissanite to be highly resistant to corrosion, meaning exposure to water, even those containing mild acids or bases, won’t chemically alter or damage the stone itself. However, while the Moissanite gem is tough, the metals used in its setting, such as gold or silver, can be more vulnerable to tarnishing or corrosion when exposed to water and harsh chemicals. This is why protecting your entire piece of jewelry from water is advisable.
Moissanite's Thermal Conductivity
Another fascinating aspect of Moissanite is its high thermal conductivity, which is one reason it’s often used as a diamond substitute. Moissanite disperses heat exceptionally well, helping it maintain its brilliance over time. However, this also means that sudden temperature changes, such as moving from a hot environment to cold water, could potentially cause stress to the metal settings, though the gem itself remains unaffected.
Why Keeping Moissanite Dry is Crucial
While it may come as a relief to know that pure water alone won’t damage your Moissanite, it’s important to be aware that other substances commonly found in water, such as shampoo, soap, and conditioner, can affect its appearance over time.
Prolonged exposure to these everyday products can lead to a buildup of oils and residues on the surface of your Moissanite jewelry. This buildup can create a filmy layer, dulling the sparkle that makes Moissanite so captivating. Therefore, while occasional contact with water isn’t a major concern, it’s wise to avoid extended exposure to substances that can leave residues, ensuring your Moissanite remains as brilliant as the day you first wore it.
Janar Kirn
