Will Hand Sanitizer Damage My Moissanite Ring?

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many changes to our daily lives, including the increased use of hand sanitizer to help prevent the spread of the virus. As we prioritize hygiene and cleanliness, it's essential to consider the potential effects of hand sanitizer on our belongings, including our jewelry.

One type of jewelry that has gained popularity in recent years is moissanite. Moissanite is a gemstone that is known for its diamond-like appearance and affordability. However, some people may be concerned about the potential for hand sanitizer to damage their moissanite rings.

Moissanite is a gemstone made from silicon carbide and known for its diamond-like appearance and properties. It was first discovered in 1893 by a French scientist, Henri Moissan, who found tiny gemstone crystals in a meteorite crater.

Moissanite is often used as a diamond alternative in jewelry due to its similar appearance and lower cost. It is also known for its hardness and durability, as it has a rating of 9.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness (compared to a rating of 10 for diamonds).

While moissanite may resemble diamonds, it does have some differences. One notable difference is its refractive index, which measures how much light is bent as it passes through the gemstone. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which can result in a more excellent sparkle and fire.

Moissanite is often compared to cubic zirconia, another popular diamond alternative. However, moissanite is generally more durable and has a higher-quality appearance than cubic zirconia.

One concern that some people may have about using hand sanitizer and wearing moissanite rings is the potential for damage to the gemstone. While moissanite is known for its durability, it is still possible for certain substances to affect its appearance.

One potential effect of hand sanitizer on moissanite is discoloration. Hand sanitizer contains alcohol, which can evaporate and leave behind a residue on the gemstone's surface. This residue can cause a film to build up on the moissanite, leading to a dull or yellowed appearance.

In addition to discoloration, hand sanitizer may cause moissanite to appear dull or lose its sparkle. This is due to the abrasive nature of alcohol, which can scratch the gemstone's surface and reduce its shine.

It's important to note that the extent to which hand sanitizer may affect moissanite can vary. Some people may notice a significant change in the appearance of their moissanite after using hand sanitizer. In contrast, others may not see any noticeable difference.

It's also worth considering moissanite's chemical composition when considering how it may be affected by hand sanitizer. Moissanite is made from silicon carbide, a hard and durable material. However, it is still possible for certain substances, like alcohol, to interact with the gemstone and alter its appearance.

Suppose you own a moissanite ring and are concerned about the potential effects of hand sanitizer on your jewelry. In that case, there are steps you can take to protect it. One simple but effective tip is to remove your ring before applying hand sanitizer. This will prevent the alcohol in the sanitizer from coming into direct contact with the gemstone.

If you cannot remove your ring, apply a small amount of hand sanitizer to a cotton swab or cloth and use that to clean your hands. This can help to minimize the amount of sanitizer that comes into contact with your ring.

After using hand sanitizer, it's a good idea to clean and protect your moissanite ring. One way to do this is by wiping the ring down with a soft, lint-free cloth. This can help remove any residue the hand sanitizer may have left behind.

You can also use mild soap and warm water to clean your moissanite ring. Rinse the ring thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth.

In addition to these cleaning methods, you may consider storing your moissanite ring in a safe place when it is not worn. This can help prevent damage from accidental drops or other accidents.

In conclusion, hand sanitizer can cause discoloration and dullness of moissanite. While these effects may not be permanent, it's essential to protect your moissanite jewelry using hand sanitizer. Some simple ways to do this include removing the ring before applying hand sanitizer, wiping the ring down with a soft cloth after use, and storing the ring safely when not worn.

It's also worth remembering that hand sanitizer is not the only potential source of damage to moissanite and other types of jewelry. It's essential to handle and care for your jewelry with care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when we use hand sanitizer and other cleaning products more frequently.

By following these tips and taking good care of your moissanite and other jewelry, you can help to preserve their beauty and longevity.