Understanding the distinctions between diamond simulants like cubic zirconia and moissanite vs synthetic and natural diamonds is crucial when choosing diamond engagement rings or other fine jewellery.
Cubic zirconia, moissanite, and white topaz are commonly used as diamond substitutes, also known as diamond simulants, which imitate diamonds but do not have the same chemical properties. It is crucial to distinguish between diamond simulants and synthetic diamonds; the latter are lab-grown diamonds, fundamentally different from simulants.
Read on to find out the key differences between cubic zirconia and moissanite vs diamond, helping you to make an informed choice about your diamond purchase!
Diamond simulants are gemstones with a diamond-like appearance but lack the same chemical properties and attributes as diamonds. They possess distinct chemical compositions compared to real diamonds. A diamond simulant should not be labelled as a synthetic diamond, as both are very different.
Moissanite is a beautiful gemstone composed of silicon carbide. It's known for its exceptional brilliance, sometimes exhibiting a rainbow sparkle instead of the classic "white fire" of a diamond.
Moissanite is very hard, scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale, but it's slightly less durable than lab-grown diamonds, which may make it more prone to scratches that could diminish its brilliance over time. Moissanite also exhibits a distinctive, colourful brilliance that contrasts sharply with the more subdued, classic sparkle of diamonds. It can sometimes show a faint yellow or grey hue, unlike the perfect colourlessness of lab-grown diamonds.
While diamonds are priced according to the 4Cs, moissanite pricing is based on just three factors: shape, size, and colour. Hence, the stone offers a strikingly lower price point compared to diamonds.
Also known as CZ, this gemstone is not a naturally occurring mineral like real diamonds or moissanite. Rather, it is a cultivated gem composed of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), synthesised to mimic the appearance of diamonds. Cubic zirconia stone is a popular and affordable simulant known for its sparkle, but it often lacks the depth and fire of a diamond.
When it comes to durability and sparkle, cubic zirconia simply can't compete with a lab-grown diamond. Cubic zirconia scores lower at 8.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means it's more susceptible to scratching and chipping, resulting in a cloudier appearance. Over time, these imperfections can dull the stone's brilliance, diminishing its initial sparkle. Cubic zirconia offers a stunning look at a fraction of the price, making it a budget-friendly alternative for those seeking a dazzling stone. However, unlike lab-grown diamonds, cubic zirconia does not retain market value over time.
While cubic zirconia offers a visually appealing shine, it often lacks the depth and fire of a diamond, appearing more glassy. Additionally, CZ stones often have a slightly yellow or grey tinge, similar to moissanite, whereas lab-grown diamonds can achieve a completely colourless range. This colour difference can be especially noticeable when placed side-by-side with a true diamond.
White topaz, a colourless variant of the topaz gemstone from the silicate mineral family, is often found in aluminium and fluorine-rich environments like granite. Known for its clear sparkle, it is frequently used in jewellery as a cost-effective alternative to diamonds, its appeal coming from its clarity and shimmer.
Scoring only an 8 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, white topaz is significantly more susceptible to scratches than synthetic diamonds. These scratches can accumulate over time, leading to a cloudy appearance and diminished brilliance. It may even appear darker, especially in sunlight, when placed next to a synthetic diamond's consistent white brilliance.
Additionally, white topaz lacks the classic sparkle of a diamond and can have a faint yellow tinge, whereas synthetic diamonds achieve a completely colourless range.
Synthetic diamonds, also known as lab-grown or cultured diamonds, have the same physical and optical properties as naturally mined diamonds. Both rank a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making them incredibly strong and resistant to scratches. These diamonds are developed in controlled lab environments, providing an ethical and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds.
Is a lab-grown diamond just a fancy diamond simulant? Well, the short answer is no. Unlike moissanite, cubic zirconia, and white topaz, which are fundamentally different in composition and appearance, synthetic diamonds are true diamonds, sharing the same chemical structure as their natural counterparts.
Related: Mined vs Lab Grown Diamonds: Everything You Need to Know
What’s the difference between moissanite and diamond? Is cubic zirconia better than diamonds? Let’s take a closer look at the differences between these gemstones in the comparison chart:
Moissanite, cubic zirconia and white topaz have a lower hardness than a lab-grown diamond. In appearance, a moissanite or cubic zirconia gem will exhibit a different rainbow-like light reflection, while a white topaz stone lacks the brilliant sparkle of a diamond.
Unlike diamonds, diamond simulants can’t achieve the colourless range of a diamond, with moissanite, cubic zirconia and white topaz, all having a tinge of colour. Additionally, their appearance in sunlight is darker compared to a lab-grown diamond which has the same white brilliance indoors and outdoors.
Over time, most diamond simulants will lose their brilliance and clarity. Cubic zirconia and white topaz, in particular, are prone to scratching and chipping, making the gemstones appear cloudy.
While diamond simulants are look-alike diamonds, they do not offer the same enduring quality and visual purity as lab-grown diamonds. Choosing lab-grown diamonds ensures a perfect combination of beauty, durability, and ethical sourcing, enhancing both the worth and the long-term value of your investment.
For genuine and high-quality lab-grown diamonds, you can shop Ch’ya by ZCOVA, where authenticity and quality converge. We offer IGI-certified lab-grown diamonds, with complimentary jewellery design customisation to bring your jewellery vision to life.
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