What Can Scratch Moissanite? 2025
As a jewelry writer and gemstone enthusiast, I often get asked one of the most fascinating and practical questions: “What can actually scratch moissanite?” It’s a fair question—especially for anyone considering investing in a sparkling moissanite engagement ring or wholesale moissanite jewelry. After all, durability is one of the most important qualities in a gemstone, right alongside brilliance and beauty.
Moissanite is often compared to diamonds not only because of its fiery sparkle but also due to its exceptional hardness. On the Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness, moissanite scores an impressive 9.25, making it the second-hardest gemstone used in jewelry after diamond (which ranks at a perfect 10). This means moissanite is extremely resistant to scratching, much more so than sapphires, rubies, emeralds, or quartz.
But here’s the catch: no gemstone is truly indestructible. Even moissanite, with its near-diamond strength, has vulnerabilities. So, if you’re wondering what materials can potentially scratch your moissanite, how to care for it, and what myths need busting, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll take you through the science of hardness, real-world scenarios, and expert jewelry care tips—so you can wear your moissanite jewelry with confidence for decades to come.
Moissanite Bracelets | Shop Now
Moissanite Best Sellers | Moissanite Engagement Ring Band Sets | Moissanite Matching His & Hers Rings | Moissanite Rose Gold Wedding Sets | Moissanite White Gold Wedding Sets | Moissanite Affordable Sets | Moissanite Pendant Studs | Moissanite Clustered Sets | Moissanite Set | Moissanite Art Deco Jewelry Sets
Understanding Moissanite Hardness
The Mohs Scale and Why It Matters
The Mohs Scale of Hardness is the industry standard for ranking minerals based on their resistance to being scratched. Here’s where popular gems fall:
-
Diamond – 10
-
Moissanite – 9.25
-
Sapphire & Ruby – 9
-
Topaz – 8
-
Quartz – 7
-
Glass/Steel – 5–6
This means moissanite can easily scratch anything softer than itself, including everyday materials like glass, metal, or common gemstones. However, only materials of equal or higher hardness can scratch moissanite.
What Can Scratch Moissanite?
1. Diamonds
The only natural gemstone harder than moissanite is diamond. Since diamonds score a 10 on the Mohs scale, they can absolutely scratch moissanite. If you store moissanite and diamond jewelry together, there’s a real risk of surface abrasions.
2. Other Moissanite Stones
Surprisingly, moissanite can scratch other moissanite gems. When two gemstones of equal hardness rub against each other, surface scratching can occur over time. This is why proper storage is critical.
3. Extreme Industrial Materials
Laboratory-created abrasives such as boron carbide or silicon carbide can scratch moissanite, but these are not substances you’ll encounter in daily life.
Moissanite Sets | Shop Now
Moissanite Nature Inspired Jewelry Sets | Moissanite Toi et Moi Jewelry Sets | Moissanite Engagement Ring | Moissanite Wedding Band | Moissanite Eternity Ring | Moissanite Promise Ring | Moissanite 3 Stone Ring | Moissanite Stackable Ring | Moissanite Oval Cut Ring | Moissanite Emerald Cut Ring
What Cannot Scratch Moissanite
Many myths surround moissanite durability. Let’s clear the air:
-
Gold, platinum, and silver: These precious metals are much softer (Mohs 2.5–4), so they can never scratch moissanite.
-
Everyday items like keys or coins: Made of softer alloys, they cannot scratch moissanite.
-
Household dust or sand: While quartz dust (Mohs 7) can scratch glass, it cannot touch moissanite.
Why Scratch Resistance Isn’t the Whole Story
Toughness vs. Hardness
While hardness measures scratch resistance, toughness measures resistance to chipping or breaking. Moissanite has excellent toughness, but like any gemstone, it can chip if struck at the right angle. This is why prong settings and protective designs matter.
Daily Wear Risks
Though scratching is rare, the bigger risks for moissanite are:
-
Chipping from a hard blow
-
Loosening in the setting over time
-
Accumulated dirt or oil dulling brilliance
Moissanite Necklaces | Shop Now
Moissanite Cushion Cut Ring | Moissanite Round Cut Ring | Moissanite Heart Shaped Ring | Moissanite Princess Cut Ring | Moissanite Pear Cut Ring | Moissanite Marquise Cut Ring | Moissanite Asscher Radiant Cut Ring | Moissanite Pearl Earrings | Moissanite Rose Gold Ring | Moissanite Yellow Gold Ring
Expert Tips to Protect Your Moissanite
-
Store Separately: Keep moissanite pieces in a soft pouch or lined box, away from diamonds and other gemstones.
-
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Moissanite isn’t affected by most household cleaners, but metals and settings can be. Stick to gentle jewelry cleaners.
-
Regular Cleaning: A soft toothbrush, warm water, and mild soap keep moissanite sparkling.
-
Professional Checkups: Jewelers can inspect prongs and settings to ensure your stone stays secure.
Moissanite vs. Diamond: Scratch Resistance in Real Life
Many buyers want to know if moissanite holds up as well as diamond. While diamond remains the hardest gemstone on earth, moissanite is practically indestructible for everyday wear. Unless you’re pressing your ring against a diamond or using industrial abrasives, your moissanite won’t scratch.
In fact, moissanite often outperforms diamonds in toughness (resistance to breaking), making it an ideal choice for active lifestyles.
Moissanite Earrings | Shop Now
Moissanite White Gold Ring | Moissanite Sterling Silver Ring | Moissanite Platinum Ring | Moissanite Black Ring | Moissanite Men Ring | Moissanite Solitaire Necklaces | Moissanite Tennis Necklaces | Moissanite Cross Necklaces | Moissanite Choker Necklaces | Moissanite Name Initial Pendants
FAQs About Scratches on Moissanite
Q: Can sandpaper scratch moissanite?
Yes—if it contains industrial-grade abrasives harder than moissanite. Ordinary sand, however, will not.
Q: Can moissanite get cloudy from scratches?
No. Cloudiness is usually from dirt, oil, or residue, not scratches. Moissanite is highly resistant to surface damage.
Q: Should I wear my moissanite ring at the gym?
It’s best to remove it during heavy lifting or impact sports to avoid chipping or damaging the setting.
Moissanite Engagement Rings | Shop Now
Moissanite Heart Necklaces | Moissanite Cluster Necklaces | Moissanite Halo Pendant Necklaces | Moissanite Teardrop Drop Necklaces | Moissanite Circle Bezel Pendants | Moissanite Pearl Necklaces | Moissanite Men Necklace | Moissanite Cuban Link Chains | Moissanite Dog Tag Necklaces | Moissanite Rose Gold Necklaces
Conclusion
So, what can scratch moissanite? Realistically, only diamonds, other moissanite, and rare industrial materials. Everyday objects—from coins and keys to household dust—don’t stand a chance. That’s what makes moissanite such a brilliant, durable, and smart investment for engagement rings and fine jewelry.
By following simple care practices—like proper storage, regular cleaning, and professional maintenance—you can ensure your moissanite jewelry stays scratch-free and sparkling for a lifetime.
At Moissanite Jewelry Wholesale, we believe every buyer deserves both beauty and durability. With the right knowledge, your moissanite can shine just as brightly as the day you bought it—without fear of scratches.
Moissanite Necklace Collections
Moissanite White Gold Necklaces | Moissanite Necklace Yellow Gold | Moissanite Sterling Silver 925 Necklaces | Moissanite Stud Earrings | Moissanite Hoop Earrings | Moissanite Drop Dangle Earrings | Moissanite Cluster Earrings | Moissanite Leverback Earrings | Moissanite Screw Back Earrings | Moissanite Round Cut Studs
Moissanite Earrings Collections
Moissanite Princess Cut Earrings | Moissanite Emerald Radiant Cut Earrings | Moissanite Pear Teardrop Earrings | Moissanite 1 Carat Earrings | Moissanite 2 Carat Earrings | Moissanite 3 Carat Earrings | Moissanite White Gold Earrings | Moissanite Rose Gold Earrings | Moissanite Sterling Silver 925 Earrings | Moissanite Men Earrings
Moissanite Bracelets Collections
Moissanite Tennis Bracelets | Moissanite Cuban Link Bracelets | Moissanite Bangle Bracelets | Moissanite Cross Bracelets | Moissanite Pearl Bracelets | Moissanite Rose Gold Bracelets | Moissanite White Gold Bracelet | Moissanite Sterling Silver 925 Bracelets | Moissanite Men Bracelet | Moissanite Men Tennis Chain Cuff Bracelet
Moissanite Watches Collections
