Cubic zirconia and diamond both dazzle with their sparkle, but each have their own unique characteristics. Whether you’re a seasoned jewelry lover or just starting to explore, telling them apart can be tricky. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll compare cubic zirconia vs. diamond and break down everything you need to know about both these stones. Ready to learn all about them? Dive right in!
What Is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia is the cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide and is made in a lab. Although this man-made stone looks strikingly similar to diamond, it is made of a completely different material. While cubic zirconia is mostly colorless, it comes in various other hues such as yellow, pink, blue and green.
Here’s an interesting fact: Cubic zirconia is often confused with zircon. But remember that they’re not the same. Cubic zirconia is a man-made stone. Zircon, composed of zirconium silicate, is a natural gemstone. In fact, zircon is even older than diamonds. Want to know the astrological benefits of zircon gemstone? Well, it is believed to bring positive energy and balance, promote inner peace and boost confidence.
Now that you’ve got an understanding of what cubic zirconia is made of and how it is different from zircon, let’s go ahead and learn a little about what a diamond is.
What Is a Diamond?
One of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, a diamond symbolizes strength, abundance and eternal love. It is also the April birthstone and is a go-to pick for engagement and wedding rings. Although colorless diamonds are most common, these sparkling gemstones are also found in other captivating hues. What’s more, diamonds rank the highest on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making them a popular choice for jewelry, especially for everyday wear.
Cubic Zirconia Vs. Diamond: What Sets Them Apart
1. Origin
Cubic Zirconia: Cubic zirconia is a man-made gemstone, created in a laboratory. It was synthesized in 1976 by Soviet scientists. Although it was originally developed for industrial purposes, it soon gained popularity in the jewelry industry due to its similar appearance to diamonds.
Diamond: Millions of years ago, diamonds were formed in the Earth’s crust. As a result of volcanic eruptions, magma also known as kimberlite emerged on the Earth’s surface. The crumbling away of this kimberlite carried the diamonds up from the mantle. The Cullinan diamond was one of the most prominent diamonds discovered in the kimberlite deposits in 1905.
2. Formation and Composition
Cubic Zirconia: Cubic zirconia or CZ, is a man-made gemstone created by heating zirconium oxide along with calcium and magnesium at extremely high temperatures. In some cases, yttrium oxide is used as a stabilizer, resulting in a slightly softer stone. While it is typically colorless, it can also be produced in a range of vibrant hues by adding oxides of elements such as cerium, copper, titanium, iron and nickel.
Diamond: Diamonds are formed deep inside the Earth’s mantle, where extreme pressure and high temperature turn carbon into diamonds over millions of years. Made entirely of carbon, the atoms bond in a unique crystal structure. Because of this process, diamonds are the hardest natural material on Earth. They are later brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions, where they are mined and cut into the sparkling gems we know and love.
3. Appearance
Cubic Zirconia: Cubic zirconia is typically flawless and colorless, but it may contain tiny gas bubbles. Cubic zirconia stones can be found in vibrant colors such as pink, blue and green. However, these hues often appear less natural. Plus, it has softer edges compared to diamonds.
Diamond: Diamonds sparkle brighter than cubic zirconia due to their higher refractive index. While diamonds are mostly colorless, they can also come in shades such as yellow, brown, pink, and blue, each with its unique look and charm. Diamonds may also have natural flaws or color variations. Their minor inclusions give them character and uniqueness. Thanks to their hardness, diamonds have sharp, well-defined edges.
4. Durability
Cubic Zirconia: With an 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale, cubic zirconia is fairly durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions. Coming to chemical resistance, cubic zirconia isn’t affected by most acids, although there are chances that some substances may cause discoloration.
Diamond: Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth, with a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale. This makes them highly resistant to chipping, breaking, damage and scratches. Their durability makes them a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces for daily wear.
5. Price
Cubic Zirconia: If we compare real diamonds versus cubic zirconia in terms of price, cubic zirconia is much more affordable and can provide a similar look for those on a budget.
Diamond: Naturally occurring diamonds are generally more expensive than cubic zirconia since the latter is lab-created. The cost of a diamond relies on its carat weight, clarity, cut and color. Even if we compare natural vs. lab grown diamonds, both types of diamonds will still be more expensive than cubic zirconia.
6. Uses in Jewelry
Cubic Zirconia: It’s used in almost all kinds of jewelry such as necklaces, rings, engagement rings, earrings and more. It is available in various shapes and colors as it’s easier to manufacture and is lab-created. This is why cubic zirconia is a popular choice for those on a budget.
Diamond: Diamonds are typically used in luxury jewelry, wedding bands and engagement rings. For those seeking stunning and durable precious gemstone pieces for daily wear, diamond jewelry is ideal. Plus, diamonds have a timeless appeal and look great in both classic and modern jewelry designs.
7. Care and Maintenance
Cubic Zirconia: Cubic zirconia is not as tough as diamonds, so it’s best to clean and care for it regularly. While cleaning, use a soft toothbrush and a solution made of mild soap and warm water. Once you clean it thoroughly, use a soft cloth to gently pat it dry. Store it in a separate pouch to prevent damage, abrasions and scratches.
Diamond: Diamonds have excellent durability and hardness. However, to keep them looking their sparkling best all the time, you can follow these tips. To clean your diamonds, soak them in soapy water for a few minutes and then clean them gently using a soft toothbrush. You can pat them dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Coming to storage, it’s best to keep your diamonds in a soft pouch or jewelry box.
Wondering how to tell the difference between a diamond and CZ? The next section will clear all your doubts.
Handy Tips for Identifying a Diamond Vs. Cubic Zirconia
1. One of the best ways to distinguish between diamond vs. cubic zirconia is the price. Diamonds, whether natural or lab-created, are always more expensive than cubic zirconia.
2. Another simple way to identify the two stones is by observing them under light. Diamonds have amazing brilliance and fire. They generally have a white sparkle. While diamonds will also have a rainbow-like reflection, these rainbow hues are much more pronounced in cubic zirconia.
3. While they look similar, a diamond is heavier than a cubic zirconia of the same weight. So, weighing the two is a good way to tell them apart.
FAQs
1. How to tell the difference between cubic zirconia and diamond?
There are many ways to tell the difference between cubic zirconia and diamond. Some of the common ones are observing their sparkle under light, checking their weight and comparing prices.
2. Do diamonds sparkle more than cubic zirconia?
They certainly do! Thanks to their higher refractive index, diamonds offer much more sparkle and brilliance as compared to cubic zirconia.
