But does it always have to be the real diamond or is there a good alternative?
As a jewelry lover, it is important to know the differences between different gemstones in order to make the right decisions when purchasing jewelry .
In this article we will look at the differences between cubic zirconia and diamonds. Both gemstones are commonly used for jewelry, but they differ in many ways, including durability, density, clarity, luster, hardness, and price.
The most important thing in brief:
-
Cubic zirconia is an affordable alternative to diamonds, while diamonds have a higher price due to their rarity and uniqueness.
- Cubic zirconia offers a wide selection of colors, while diamonds are mainly colorless. This allows for greater variety in the design of jewelry and opens up creative possibilities.
- Diamonds are the hardest mineral on the Mohs scale, while Zirconia has a slightly lower hardness.
What is a zirconia?
Cubic zirconia is a man-made gemstone that is widely used in the jewelry industry.
It is often used as a cost-effective alternative to diamonds and is very popular among jewelry lovers.
One of the main reasons why cubic zirconia is a popular choice for jewelry is because of its sparkling appearance.
Cubic zirconia stones have a high refractive index, meaning they effectively reflect incoming light creating a stunning shine.
This sparkling effect gives jewelry a luxurious touch and makes it an eye-catcher.
Cubic zirconia is also available in a variety of colors, offering a wide range of creative design possibilities.
Whether you prefer a classic clear stone or a striking colored cubic zirconia, there are countless options for choosing the perfect gemstone for the piece.
Zirconia as a gemstone offers you the following advantages:
-
Cheap
-
Sparkling Shine
-
Variety of color selection
-
Longevity
- High availability
Overall, Cubic zirconia jewelry offers an attractive combination of sparkling appearance, affordability and durability. It is a popular choice for those who want to gift high-quality jewelry without breaking the bank.
Find your new favorite jewelry with zirconia at DIAMOND MODE:
What is a diamond?
Diamonds are the Kings of gemstones and have a long history as symbols of luxury, elegance and love. They are a fascinating natural phenomenon that arises under extreme conditions deep in the earth.
Over millions of years, carbon atoms are pressed together under enormous pressure and heat to form the crystalline structure of a diamond. These natural gemstones are known for their exceptional hardness, clarity and brilliance.
Diamonds are timeless and versatile. They are available in a variety of cuts and shapes, from classic round brilliant diamonds to elegant princess cut or emerald cuts.
Diamonds can be wonderfully combined with various metals and other gemstones to create unique and individual pieces of jewelry.
Diamonds as a gemstone offer the following advantages:
-
Unique beauty
-
High resistance to scratches
-
Timeless elegance
- Potential for increasing value.
Zirconia vs. Diamond: These are the differences
Cubic zirconia and Diamonds are two fascinating gemstones. They have a few things in common, such as their appearance and their water resistance.
Beautiful shiny, waterproof jewelry can be made with both of the stones.
But there are also crucial differences between these two gemstones:
Durability:
Diamonds are extremely durable and resistant to scratches and wear. They retain their beauty and shine for generations.
Cubic zirconia is also hard, but not as durable as diamond. If treated roughly, zirconia can scratch more easily and lose its shine over time.
Density:
Diamonds have a higher density than zirconia. The density of a gemstone affects its weight and size. A diamond of the same size will be heavier than a cubic zirconia of the same volume. This density gives diamonds a special presence and makes them an eye-catcher in jewelry.
Clarity:
Diamonds are valued based on their clarity. A clear diamond contains no inclusions or cloudiness that could affect its brilliance.
In contrast, cubic zirconia may have inclusions that may be visible to the naked eye. The clarity of a gemstone plays an important role in the overall impression of the piece of jewelry.
Gloss:
The shine of a gemstone is crucial for the beauty of a piece of jewelry. Due to their high refraction of light, diamonds have a breathtaking shine, which is referred to as "Fire".
This extraordinary shine gives diamonds an incomparable brilliance. High-quality zirconia stones can also have a beautiful shine, but it may appear slightly less intense compared to diamonds.
Hardness:
Diamonds are the hardest mineral on the Mohs scale and receive a rating of 10. Their exceptional hardness makes them extremely resistant to scratches and wear.
Cubic zirconia is also hard and receives a rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. Although cubic zirconia is still relatively hard, it can scratch more quickly than diamond.
Price/Value:
Another important factor when comparing cubic zirconia and diamonds is their price and value. Diamonds are typically more expensive than cubic zirconia due to their rarity and unique properties.
The value of a diamond depends on various factors, such as the 4C (Cut, Clarity, Carat, Color) and the origin of the stone. Cubic zirconia is a more affordable option for those who like the look of diamonds but are on a budget.
Conclusion
In order to choose the perfect piece of jewelry, it is important to understand the differences between cubic zirconia and diamonds. Diamonds are longer lasting, denser, have higher clarity, more intense shine and are harder than cubic zirconia.
However, they also have a higher price due to their rarity and value. Cubic zirconia is an affordable alternative to diamonds and can also provide a beautiful shine, but is less durable and more prone to scratching. Ultimately, the choice between cubic zirconia and diamonds depends on your personal preferences, your budget and the desired piece of jewelry.
FAQ
Can you tell the difference between zirconia and diamond with the naked eye?
In some cases, you can tell the difference between cubic zirconia and diamonds with the naked eye, especially in terms of clarity and shine.
Diamonds generally have higher clarity and produce a more intense shine.
However, for the layperson, it can be difficult to distinguish the difference between a real diamond and a high-quality cubic zirconia stone with the naked eye.
Can zirconia be considered a replacement for a diamond?
Yes, cubic zirconia is often used as a cost-effective alternative to diamonds. It can mimic the look of a diamond, but is not quite as durable and valuable as a real diamond.
How can you tell a real diamond from a zirconia?
There are different methods to distinguish a real diamond from a cubic zirconia. These include tests such as the diamond test with a tester or the evaluation of hardness, clarity, shine and weight. However, it is advisable to consult an expert for precise identification.
What is the best way to store my zirconia jewelry?
Store your cubic zirconia jewelry in a soft jewelry pouch or jewelry box to avoid scratches. Keep it away from hard surfaces or other jewelry that could scratch it.
Find out what else we have to offer and read on!
