Cubic Zirconia (CZ) vs Diamond: What's the Difference? [2023]

Both diamonds and cubic zirconias are beautiful gemstones, but they have some key differences.

Diamonds are a natural mineral, and are one of the hardest materials on Earth. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow, brown, green, blue, and red.

Cubic zirconias are man-made gemstones that were first created in the late 1970s. They come in a variety of colors as well, including white, pink, yellow, green, and purple.

This blog post will explore the differences between Cubic Zirconia and Diamond engagement rings and help you decide which option is best for you.

What’s the Difference Between Cubic Zirconia and Diamonds?

Deciding on the right gemstone for you can be tough. With so many different options available, it can be hard to know where to start.

If you’re considering cubic zirconia or diamonds, you may be wondering what the difference is between these two popular options.

Both cubic zirconia and diamonds are incredibly durable, making them ideal for everyday wear. However, cubic zirconia is less expensive than diamonds and also has a higher refractive index, meaning that it sparkles more than a diamond.

In terms of appearance, both cubic zirconia and diamonds can look very similar. However, trained observers can usually tell the difference between the two.

If you’re looking for a durable and affordable option, cubic zirconia may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a gemstone that’s truly timeless, diamonds may be a better option.

Durability

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a man-made stone that has many of the same properties as diamonds. Both stones are hard, sparkling, and durable. However, there are some important differences between the two.

For one thing, CZ is slightly softer than diamond, scoring a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness (compared to 10 for diamond). This means that CZ can be scratched more easily than diamond.

In addition, CZ is also less heat resistant than diamond; prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause it to discolor or even break.

Finally, CZ is much less expensive than diamond; a 1-carat CZ stone can cost as little as $20, while a 1-carat diamond can cost thousands of dollars. For these reasons, CZ is often used as an inexpensive alternative to diamond in jewelry.

Color

When it comes to gemstones, diamonds are often seen as the gold standard. However, cubic zirconia (CZ) is a diamond simulant that can rival even the most beautiful diamond in terms of both clarity and color.

So, what’s the difference between these two stones? Let’s take a closer look.

When it comes to color, diamonds are graded on a scale from D (no hue) to Z (a yellowish or brownish hue).

On the other hand, CZs are available in a wide range of colors, including colors that are not found in nature. This means that you can find a CZ in just about any shade you can imagine.

In terms of clarity, both diamonds and CZs can range from flawless (no inclusions or blemishes) to included (visible inclusions or blemishes). However, CZs are generally less expensive than diamonds, making them a more budget-friendly option.

So, when it comes to choosing between a diamond and a CZ, it really comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a stone with exceptional color, then a CZ may be the better option.

Brilliance

When it comes to brilliance and sparkle, diamonds and cubic zirconia are two of the most popular choices. But what’s the difference between these two stones?

First, let’s take a look at diamonds. Diamonds are prized for their exceptional hardness, which means they’re able to withstand a lot of wear and tear. They also have a high degree of refraction, which gives them their signature sparkle.

Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is slightly softer than diamonds and has a lower refractive index. As a result, cubic zirconia stones don’t typically have the same level of brilliance and sparkle as diamonds.

However, they do have some advantages over diamonds. For one thing, they’re significantly cheaper than diamonds. They’re also available in a wide range of colors, which means you can find a stone that perfectly suits your taste.

So if you’re looking for a stone that’s both beautiful and affordable, cubic zirconia is definitely worth considering.

Price

When it comes to engagement rings, many couples are interested in the cost difference between cubic zirconia and diamonds.

While diamonds are typically more expensive than cubic zirconia, there are a few factors that can affect the price of each type of stone.

For example, the size, quality, and clarity of the diamond will impact its price. In addition, the cut of the diamond can also affect its cost. However, when comparing cubic zirconia to diamonds, it is important to keep in mind that cubic zirconia is not a natural stone and therefore does not have the same value as diamonds.

Cubic zirconia is much less expensive than diamonds, making it a great option if you’re on a budget. However, when it comes to resell value, diamonds will always be worth more than cubic zirconia. So if you’re thinking about buying a piece of jewelry as an investment, diamonds are the way to go.

Ultimately, the stone you choose is a matter of personal preference. But now that you know the key differences between these two stones, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

What is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia is a man-made stone that was first created in the laboratory in 1937 by German mineralogist Karl Auer. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that cubic zirconia became widely available as a gemstone.

Today, it is a popular alternative to diamonds and is used in a variety of jewelry pieces. Thanks to its affordability and durability, cubic zirconia has become one of the most popular gemstones on the market.

It is made of zirconium oxide, which is a type of ceramic. The stones are cut and polished to resemble diamonds, and they are often used in jewelry. CZ is a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry because it is less expensive than diamonds.

Additionally, CZ is more durable than diamond and it is not susceptible to chipping or breaking. However, CZ does not have the same sparkle or brilliance as diamonds. For this reason, some people prefer diamonds over CZ.

Why Choose a Diamond Alternative for Your Engagement Ring

With the average engagement ring costing over $5,000, it’s no wonder that many couples are looking for ways to save money without sacrificing style.

One popular option is to choose a diamond alternative like cubic zirconia (CZ) for the center stone. CZ is a man-made material that closely resembles diamond in both appearance and hardness.

For couples on a budget, choosing a CZ engagement ring can be a great way to get the look of a luxurious ring without the hefty price tag.

Bottom Line

When it comes to shopping for engagement rings, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, it is important to think about the style of the ring. Do you want something simple or more elaborate?

Second, consider the stone. If you are looking for a diamond ring, keep in mind the “Four Cs”: cut, clarity, color, and carat weight.

Finally, don’t forget to factor in the budget. Decide how much you are willing to spend before shopping so that you can narrow down your options.

By keeping these things in mind, you will be sure to find the perfect ring for your special someone.