# How to Clean a Moissanite: 5 Quick Steps You Can’t Miss Today
**TL;DR**
– **Wash** with warm, soapy water + soft brush – first line of defence.
– **Soak** in a mild vinegar‑baking‑soda or ammonia‑water mix for stubborn grime.
– **Use** a jewellery‑specific cleaner once a month for deeper shine.
– **Avoid** boiling water, harsh chemicals, and abrasive tools that can dull the setting.
– **Store** in a soft pouch and clean every 2–3 weeks to keep the stone sparkling.
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## Introduction
Moissanite is a lab‑grown gemstone that rivals diamonds in brilliance while being far more affordable. Its hardness (9.25 on the Mohs scale) means it resists scratches, but that does not make it immune to everyday build‑up of oils, cosmetics, and environmental dirt. A simple, routine cleaning routine will preserve its fire and keep it looking new for years. Below is a step‑by‑step guide that covers everything from the gentlest wash to professional‑grade options, all backed by reputable sources.
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## Understanding Moissanite’s Properties
Moissanite’s physical characteristics dictate how it should be cared for.
– **Hardness**: At 9.25, it is just below diamond, making it highly resistant to scratching but still susceptible to surface dullness from grime. [2]
– **Surface Finish**: The stone’s facets reflect light brilliantly; any film or residue can mask that sparkle.
– **Setting Materials**: Most moissanite pieces are set in gold, platinum, or sterling silver. These metals can be affected by harsh cleaners, so gentle methods are essential.
Knowing these traits helps you choose the right cleaning technique without risking damage to either the stone or its setting.
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## Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Even the hardest stone can lose its luster. Oils from skin, sunscreen, and makeup accumulate on the facets, creating a dull film that dulls the fire. Regular cleaning:
1. **Prevents dullness** by removing surface film.
2. **Protects settings** by ensuring no residue builds up in the prongs or bezel.
3. **Extends lifespan** by reducing the need for professional polishing.
A simple wash every 2–3 weeks is sufficient for most wearers, but heavier use (e.g., daily wear or exposure to harsh chemicals) may require more frequent care.
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## Step 1 – Gentle Soapy Water Wash
The most accessible method is a warm, soapy water rinse.
1. **Prepare a bowl** of warm water (not hot to avoid metal expansion).
2. **Add a few drops** of mild dish‑washing liquid or a jewellery‑specific soap.
3. **Submerge** the piece and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
4. **Gently brush** the facets with a soft toothbrush (bristles should be soft to avoid scratching).
5. **Rinse** under running water, ensuring all soap is removed.
6. **Pat dry** with a lint‑free cloth and let it air‑dry completely before storing.
This routine removes most surface grime and is safe for all metal settings. [1,3]
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## Step 2 – Vinegar & Baking Soda Soak (Optional)
For a deeper clean, especially after exposure to hard water or heavy makeup, a vinegar‑baking‑soda soak can be effective.
1. **Mix** 1 part white vinegar with 1 part warm water.
2. **Add** a tablespoon of baking soda (the fizz helps lift grime).
3. **Soak** the jewellery for 10–15 minutes.
4. **Rinse** thoroughly and dry as described above.
The acidic solution dissolves mineral deposits, while baking soda neutralises the acidity, preventing damage to the metal. [1]
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## Step 3 – Ammonia‑Based Soak (If Needed)
When the soapy water and vinegar‑bake method are insufficient, a mild ammonia solution can be used sparingly.
– **Solution ratio**: ¾ parts water to ¼ part household ammonia.
– **Soak time**: 5–10 minutes only.
– **Rinse** immediately with plenty of clean water.
Ammonia is effective at removing stubborn grease and film but can be harsh on some metal finishes if left too long. Use this step only when necessary. [4]
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## Step 4 – Commercial Jewelry Cleaners
Many jewelers offer cleaners formulated for moissanite and other gemstones.
– **Choose** a product that lists moissanite or “gemstone” on its label.
– **Follow** the manufacturer’s instructions (usually a 5–10 minute soak).
– **Brush** with the supplied soft brush to dislodge trapped dirt.
– **Rinse** and dry thoroughly.
Commercial cleaners often contain surfactants that are gentler than household ammonia and can be used more frequently. [5]
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## Step 5 – Ultrasonic Cleaning (Professional Use)
Ultrasonic cleaners use high‑frequency vibrations to dislodge dirt from even the smallest crevices.
– **Home use** is discouraged because the vibrations can loosen stones or loosen prongs.
– **Professional jewelers** routinely use ultrasonic baths after tightening the setting.
– **If you have an ultrasonic cleaner**, only use it on pieces that are already secured and have no loose stones.
Because the process is powerful, it should be reserved for deep cleaning or when a jeweller recommends it. [6]
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## Storage and Maintenance Tips
1. **Soft pouch**: Store each piece in a separate, lint‑free pouch to avoid scratches.
2. **Avoid moisture**: Keep jewellery in a dry environment; moisture can cause metal tarnish.
3. **Regular inspection**: Check prongs and settings for looseness after each cleaning.
4. **Avoid harsh chemicals**: Never expose moissanite to bleach, chlorine, or household cleaners that contain acids or solvents.
5. **Keep away from heat**: High temperatures can warp metal settings.
Following these habits reduces the need for frequent deep cleaning.
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## Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s Harmful | Prevention |
|———|—————–|————|
| **Using hot water** | Metal expands, potentially loosening prongs. | Use warm, not hot, water. |
| **Scrubbing with abrasive brushes** | Can scratch the facets. | Use soft‑bristle brushes or a microfiber cloth. |
| **Leaving in a damp environment** | Encourages metal tarnish and bacterial growth. | Dry completely before storage. |
| **Using harsh chemicals** | Can dull the stone and damage settings. | Stick to mild soaps or jewellery‑specific cleaners. |
| **Skipping regular cleaning** | Builds up film that dulls brilliance. | Clean every 2–3 weeks or after heavy use. |
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## Conclusion
Moissanite’s brilliance is preserved with a routine that mirrors diamond care: gentle, regular cleaning with mild solutions, careful handling of settings, and proper storage. By following the five steps above—soapy wash, optional vinegar‑bake soak, ammonia‑based rinse, commercial cleaner, and professional ultrasonic treatment when appropriate—you’ll keep your moissanite sparkling for years. Remember to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive tools; the stone’s high hardness protects it from scratches, but its surface finish still needs gentle care.
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## References
1. How to Clean Moissanite Jewelry at Home: A Simple, Safe Guide — Ouros Jewels — 2023 —
2. How to Clean Moissanite: Keeping Your Jewelry Polished – Gema&Co — 2023 —
3. How to Clean & Care for your Moissanite | MoissaniteCo – MoissaniteCo.com — 2023 —
4. How do I clean and care for my Moissanite? – MoissaniteCo.com — 2023 —
5. How to Clean Moissanite Jewelry | Helzberg Diamonds — 2023 —
6. How to Clean your Moissanite Jewelry — moissaniterings.com — 2023 —
7. How to Clean and Keep Your Moissanite Ring Sparkling at Home | TikTok — 2023 —
