No, lab-grown diamonds do not get cloudy over time. Any cloudiness you might notice is temporary surface buildup that cleans off easily, not permanent damage to the diamond itself.
What Does "Cloudy" Actually Mean?
When people worry about diamonds getting cloudy, they're describing a hazy, milky appearance that reduces sparkle. This happens for two very different reasons: permanent cloudiness from internal problems, or temporary cloudiness from surface buildup.
Lab-grown diamonds don't develop permanent cloudiness because they have the same chemical structure as natural diamonds, pure crystallised carbon with identical hardness and optical properties. The crystal structure stays intact indefinitely.
Why Some Gemstones Get Cloudy (But Diamonds Don't)
Cubic zirconia gets permanently cloudy because it's porous and soft, so it absorbs oils and moisture that create irreversible clouding. Lab-grown diamonds are non-porous, incredibly hard (10 on the Mohs scale), and chemically inert, so they don't absorb substances that would cause permanent clouding.
What Causes Temporary Cloudiness
Even though lab-grown diamonds don't get permanently cloudy, they can look dull temporarily from:
Daily wear buildup: Natural skin oils, hand creams, soaps, and beauty products leave microscopic residue that builds up over weeks.
Hard water deposits: Mineral buildup from washing hands can create surface films.
Household products: Cleaning supplies, hairspray, or cooking oils create surface residue.
Soap scum: From washing dishes or showering with your ring on.
All of this happens on the surface, not inside the diamond. The diamond remains perfect, it just needs cleaning.
How to Clean Away the Cloudiness
Regular cleaning is simple: soak your ring in warm water with a drop of gentle dish soap for 10-15 minutes, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush and rinse thoroughly.
For stubborn buildup, professional ultrasonic cleaning removes even microscopic residue and restores your lab-grown diamond to its original brilliance instantly.
Preventing Surface Buildup
Remove your ring before applying hand creams, using household cleaners, or doing messy activities. Put jewellery on after applying makeup and perfume. Rinse with clean water after exposure to soap or chlorinated pools.
Store your ring in a clean, dry place when not wearing it to prevent dust accumulation.
Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds
Both lab-grown and natural diamonds behave identically regarding cloudiness because they're the same material. Any differences come from setting differences, cut quality, or care habits rather than their origin.
View our collection of lab-grown diamond engagement rings
Thanks for reading!
Jared & Brie
