What is moissanite oil slick?
Whether you need to get rid of an oil slick stain on your Moissanite or you are hoping to learn how to avoid it, keep reading. Rainbow coloured oil slicks on the surface of a Moissanite gemstone can be shocking to find—and if left, sometimes difficult to get rid of.
The stain might be fairly prominent, or it might be something you really have to look for. But, if you don’t address it while the stain is small, it’s likely to get bigger and more visible until you take action.
No one knows the exact cause of the rainbow stain on some Moissanite, but could COVID-19 be a culprit? The continious washing and sanitizing of your hands over the past 12 months must have had some effect on your jewellery. Because most hand sanitizers contain over 70% alcohol, continued exposure to these, plus other chemicals, and hard water can detriment to your jewellery.
Here is a list of substances that can stain your moissanite:
- Lotions
- Hand Sanitizer
- Soaps (hand soaps, dish soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, etc)
- Hair Care products (gel, mousse, hairspray, etc)
- Hard water (dissolved minerals in water that can build up gradually each time your ring gets wet)
- Chemicals (cleaning products)
Do you remove your ring before cleaning the house with sprays, wet wipes, or other chemicals? Do you take it off before showering, washing your hands, or applying lotion?
If you don’t, you’re at a higher risk of eventually seeing an oil slick buildup.
The following guidelines could help you avoid the hassle of a rainbow stain on your Moissanite:
- Remove your ring to apply lotion, hair care products, or hand sanitizer.
- Remove your ring to wash your hands or shower.
- Don’t swim or soak in a hot tub with your jewellery on.
- Remove your ring before cleaning with any kind of chemicals.
- Clean your ring regularly to so you can remove grime before it really builds up. (Toothpaste is a great jewellery cleaner)
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Remember to remove your rings when exposed to any of the above substances and clean your jewellery regularly to prevent stains. If you need to, get your local jeweller to use a ultrasonic cleaner to remove stains and dirt from your jewellery at least every 6 months.