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

If you’re in the market for an engagement ring, you may be wondering what kind of stone to choose.

Two of the most popular diamond alternatives are moissanite and cubic zirconia, but how do you know which one is right for you?

Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

What’s the Difference Between Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia?

When it comes to choosing a faux diamond for your jewelry, you may be wondering what the difference is between moissanite and cubic zirconia.

Both stones are lab created, and they both have similar hardness and refractive indexes. However, there are a few key differences that you should be aware of.

First of all, moissanite is significantly more expensive than cubic zirconia. This is because natural moissanite is much rarer than cubic zirconia; it’s only found in meteorites! In contrast, cubic zirconia is made from zirconium oxide, so it’s more affordable.

Another key difference between the two stones is their color. Cubic zirconia typically appears white in color, while moissanite often looks yellowish or greenish. This difference is due to the different impurities in moissanite.

Finally, moissanite tends to be more sparkly than cubic zirconia. This is because moissanite has a higher refractive index, meaning that it reflects more light than cubic zirconia does. So, if you’re looking for a stone that’s extra sparkly, moissanite may be the best choice.

Durability

Moissanite is a gemstone that is quickly gaining in popularity, thanks to its impressive durability and sparkling brilliance.

Unlike diamonds, which are made of carbon, moissanite is made of silicon carbide. This makes it very resistant to scratching, chipping, and breaking.

When it comes to durability, moissanite is slightly harder than cubic zirconia, with a hardness of 9.5 on the Mohs scale compared to 8 for CZ gemstones. However, this difference is not really significant in terms of durability, as both stones are very tough and resistant to scratches.

Cubic zirconia is harder than most other gemstones, making it ideal for everyday wear. While it is not as hard as diamond, cubic zirconia can still stand up to a lot of wear and tear.

In fact, many people choose cubic zirconia for their engagement or wedding ring because they do not have to worry about damaging the stone.

Whether you are looking for an affordable piece of jewelry or a durable stone for everyday wear, both moissanite and cubic zirconia are a great choice.

Color

When it comes to choosing a synthetic gemstone, there are two leading contenders: moissanite and cubic zirconia. Both materials are created in a lab and have very similar properties. However, there are some key differences between the two, especially in terms of color and clarity.

One of the most obvious is that moissanite is slightly green, while cubic zirconia is white. This difference is due to the different chemical compositions of the two stones.

Moissanite contains more silicon than cubic zirconia, which gives it a greenish tint. Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is made of zirconium oxide, which is colorless.

In terms of clarity, cubic zirconia is usually flawless, whereas moissanite can often have visible inclusions.

So, if you’re looking for a stone that looks like a diamond but with a little bit of color, moissanite might be the right choice for you.

Whichever material you choose, you can be sure that you’re getting a beautiful and durable synthetic gemstone. Moissanite and cubic zirconia are both excellent choices for those who want the look of a diamond without the price tag.

Brilliance

When it comes to brilliance and sparkle, moissanite is the clear winner. This is because its refractive index is higher than cubic zirconia, meaning that it disperses light more efficiently.

As a result, moissanite stones tend to appear brighter and more sparkly than cubic zirconia. In fact, moissanite has more fire than diamond, making it an excellent choice for those who want their jewelry to really shine.

And because moissanite is so hard, it will retain its sparkle for a lifetime. For these reasons, moissanite is often the stone of choice for those who want their jewelry to really dazzle.

Price

One of the biggest differences between these two man made gemstones is price. Moissanite is more expensive than cubic zirconia because it is a natural gemstone.

Cubic zirconia is man-made and therefore less costly. In terms of quality, moissanite is also the superior choice. It is harder than cubic zirconia and more resistant to scratching, chipping, and fading.

Additionally, moissanite has more fire and brilliance than cubic zirconia, meaning it sparkles more in the light. For these reasons, moissanite is the better choice for those who want a fake diamond that looks and performs like the real thing.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a beautiful and unique gemstone that was first discovered in a meteor crater.

Unlike diamonds, which are made of carbon, moissanite is composed of silicon carbide. This gives it superior hardness and durability, making it an excellent choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.

In addition, moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, giving it more sparkle and fire. And because it is less expensive than diamond, moissanite is a great way to get the look of a luxurious gemstone without the high price tag.

What is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia is a beautiful, affordable alternative to diamonds. Often used in jewelry, cubic zirconia is made from zirconium oxide and is highly resistant to scratching and chipping.

It has a similar appearance to diamonds, making it a popular choice for those who want the look of diamonds without the high price tag. Cubic zirconia is also popular because it comes in a wide variety of colors, including blue, pink, and red.

While cubic zirconia is not as hard as diamonds, it is still a durable stone that can last for years with proper care.

Benefits of Diamond Alternatives

If you’re shopping for an engagement ring, you may be considering a diamond alternative. While diamonds are the traditional choice, there are many good reasons to consider other options.

For one thing, diamond alternatives are often more affordable. This can be especially helpful if you’re on a tight budget or if you want to splurge on a larger stone.

And although they may not have the same resale value as diamonds, they will retain their beauty and sparkle for many years to come. Another advantage of diamond alternatives is that they offer a wide range of colors to choose from.

Whatever your reason for considering a diamond alternative, be sure to do your research before making your final decision.

With so many beautiful options available, you’re sure to find the perfect ring for your special someone.

Bottom Line

With moissanite and cubic zirconia, you can find high-quality stones that are beautiful and affordable. But how do you know which one is right for you?

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Moissanite is known for its “fire” or dispersion of light. This means that it sparkles more than cubic zirconia. If you want a ring that really sparkles, moissanite is a good choice.

Both moissanite and cubic zirconia are hard stones, but moissanite is slightly harder. This means that it’s more resistant to scratches and other wear and tear.

If you’re looking for a ring that will last for years, moissanite is a good choice. However, if you’re on a budget, cubic zirconia is a good option because it’s more affordable.

With these things in mind, you should be able to find the perfect ring for your fiance!