Cubic Zirconia vs Moissanite
Diamonds have long been a traditional choice when purchasing fine jewelry. However, as most of us know, these precious stones come with a steep price tag. The good news is that you can have nice things without breaking the bank. Both cubic zirconia (CZ) and moissanite are popular diamond simulants that are made to look like authentic diamonds without the exorbitant cost.
If price is a factor, making the decision to purchase a diamond simulant is a no-brainer. Choosing between cubic zirconia and moissanite is a harder decision. Both types of lab-grown stones offer beauty, affordability, and versatility; however, there are some distinct differences between the two. Before adding a new piece to your carefully curated collection, check out the differences between cubic zirconia and moissanite.
What Is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia is a diamond alternative that possesses many of the same qualities as a real diamond. Unlike a real diamond that is mined from the ground, CZ is synthetic, meaning it’s created in a lab. Similar to diamonds, cubic zirconia is evaluated using the same qualities as diamonds and other precious gemstones. These qualities include the Four Cs: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight.
The biggest difference is that the quality of cubic zirconia can vary. Some stones are more desirable than others and aspects like clarity can differ. Cubic zirconia qualities tend to fall into one of several levels in a five-tiered system that ranges from A (lowest grade) to AAAAA (highest grade). Cubic zirconia can be found in a range of colors and can be cut into any diamond shape.
How Much Does Cubic Zirconia Cost?
Cubic zirconia is known to be very affordable, especially compared to alternative options like diamonds. According to the International Gem Society, a standard cut and polished one-carat cubic zirconia stone runs for about $20. Compare this to a one-carat diamond which starts at around $1,800.
Prices range based on the size, quality, cut, and clarity of the stone, as well as the type of metal used in the jewelry. Cubic zirconia can be set in a range of metals, such as silver, brass, copper, gold, or platinum. Stainless steel and sterling silver are also commonly used in combination with CZ.
How Can I Wear Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia is a highly versatile stone that can be worn for a variety of functions. More elegant pieces are perfect for anniversary gifts, engagements, and other romantic gestures. Classic white stones instantly elevate any outfit and can add a hint of sparkle to your formal wear.
If you’re interested in an everyday piece, consider a colored CZ. Today, you can find cubic zirconia in a rainbow of bold colors, such as shades of green, blue, pink, red, purple, and yellow. Colored cubic zirconia is a great way to add an instant pop of color to any outfit, especially neutral ensembles.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a naturally-occurring mineral known as silicon carbide. In nature, this mineral is rare and cannot be found in large enough pieces to be cut into one-carat gemstones. For this reason, moissanite found in modern jewelry is created in a lab. Since moissanite is a man-made stone, it is much more affordable than real diamonds but offers a similar look.
There are several advantages to choosing moissanite over a diamond beyond price alone. While diamonds are the hardest naturally-occurring mineral at a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, moissanite isn’t far behind at a 9.25 to 9.5. They are also versatile and can be found in a variety of cuts and colors. Traditionally, moissanite possesses a yellowish, greenish tint.
How Much Does Moissanite Cost?
Like other diamond simulants, moissanite is a very affordable alternative to real diamonds. According to Brides.com, a moissanite gemstone is approximately one-tenth the cost of a mined diamond of equal quality and size. Of course, there are various aspects that affect pricing.
Moissanite is classified based on a grading system. Grades D, E, and F are colorless, Grades G, H, and I are nearly colorless, and Grades J and K have tones of color. Similar to both lab and natural diamond color grading systems, the higher the grade and the more colorless, the more expensive the gemstone.
How Can I Wear Moissanite?
Like cubic zirconia, moissanite is a versatile gemstone that can be worn daily or for special occasions. Due to their high durability, these beautiful gems are perfect for everyday wear. Consider a trendy colored diamond to match your outfit or a classic white diamond to elevate any outfit.
Moissanite can also be a great gift for someone special in your life. This affordable stone can be set in a variety of metals, from silver and gold to copper and platinum. As one of the hardest substances on earth, you can trust your stone to maintain its brilliance, resist scratches, and never get cloudy.
CZ vs. Moissanite: Which to Choose?
Depending on your needs, cubic zirconia and moissanite can each act as the perfect alternative to real diamonds. Both options are affordable, beautiful, durable, and look like the real thing. However, there are some areas in which cubic zirconia is the superior option.
While both CZ and moissanite are affordable diamond simulants, cubic zirconia is still the most cost-effective option. There are several reasons for the price difference. First, there are fewer manufacturers of high-quality moissanite, making them more costly than CZ. The process to create moissanite gemstones also requires more expensive raw materials compared to cubic zirconia.
Due to their affordability and the variety of colors and cuts available, cubic zirconia provides the perfect way to keep up with the latest fashions. Most women can’t afford to buy a new diamond each time a new trend comes along. The affordability of CZ makes it easy to grow your jewelry collection without hurting your wallet.
From rings and earrings to bracelets and pendants, CZ jewelry can be found in a large selection of designs. Whether you’re looking for a simple pair of studs for everyday wear or an oversized cocktail ring with a cluster of simulated diamonds, you can find it with cubic zirconia.
Cubic zirconia jewelry is also easy to store, clean, and maintain. This type of gemstone requires minimal upkeep and will retain its beautiful shine and luster for years. It is also the ideal travel companion. Worried about losing your incredibly expensive diamond bracelet? Bring along a gorgeous cubic zirconia bracelet and leave your worries behind.