Cubic Zirconia vs Diamond: Which is Better for Durability, Brilliance, and Price?
When it comes to jewellery, many people wonder if cubic zirconia is as good as a diamond. After looking into the differences, there are some key factors to consider when choosing between the two. Let’s break down how cubic zirconia compares to diamonds for your next piece of jewellery at Hunters fine Jewellery
What is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a lab-made gemstone designed to look like a diamond. Made from zirconium dioxide, CZ is a popular and affordable alternative to natural diamonds. While they look similar, cubic zirconia has unique qualities that set it apart.
Key Takeaways:
- Cubic zirconia is a synthetic diamond alternative.
- It ranks 8.5 on the Mohs scale, while diamonds are rated a 10.
- CZ is colourless, similar to a D-coloured diamond.
- It can be cut into popular shapes like round or princess.
- Cubic zirconia is much more affordable than diamonds.
Durability: A Key Factor in Gemstone Selection
When choosing between cubic zirconia and diamonds, one of the most important things to consider is durability.
Mohs Scale of Hardness
The Mohs scale measures how well gemstones resist scratches. Diamonds, with a rating of 10, are the hardest material, while cubic zirconia has a score of 8.5, making it less durable but still a good option for everyday wear.
| Gemstone | Mohs Scale Rating | Scratch Resistance |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond | 10 | Extremely high |
| Cubic Zirconia | 8.5 | High, but less than diamond |
Longevity and Wear Resistance
Diamonds retain their sparkle for many years with minimal care. In contrast, cubic zirconia can scratch and become cloudy over time, often losing its beauty after a couple of years.
Maintenance Requirements
Cubic zirconia requires more maintenance than diamonds. It tends to absorb oils from skin and beauty products, which can dull its appearance. Regular cleaning is essential. Diamonds, on the other hand, stay shiny with less frequent cleaning.
Brilliance and Visual Appeal
When comparing cubic zirconia and diamonds, their brilliance and how they interact with light is one of the biggest differences.
Diamonds sparkle more because they have a higher refractive index. Cubic zirconia, while still brilliant, reflects light differently, creating colourful flashes known as "fire." In daylight, diamonds shine with a crisp white light, whereas cubic zirconia tends to show a rainbow effect, making it easier to distinguish between the two.
| Property | Diamond | Cubic Zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Refractive Index | 2.417–2.419 | 2.15–2.18 |
| Light Reflection | Mostly white light | More coloured light |
| Visual Effect | Brilliant sparkle | Rainbow-like fire |
Both stones are beautiful, but they appeal to different tastes. Some prefer the classic sparkle of diamonds, while others enjoy the vibrant colours of cubic zirconia.
Zirconia vs Diamond: Price Comparison
The price difference between cubic zirconia and diamonds is significant. Cubic zirconia is a budget-friendly option for those who want the look of diamonds without the high cost.
Cost Factors for Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia is much cheaper than diamonds. While CZ is often mistaken for a real diamond, it is a different gemstone with its own characteristics.
| Stone Type | 1-Carat Price |
|---|---|
| Cubic Zirconia | £15 - £80 |
| Diamond | £2,500 - £16,000 |
Long-term Value and Resale Potential
Cubic zirconia may be cheaper, but it holds little to no resale value. Diamonds, however, retain and sometimes even increase in value over time, making them a better long-term investment. This is important to consider when thinking about heirloom pieces or valuable assets.
Weighing Up the Ethical and Environmental Considerations
When choosing between cubic zirconia and diamonds, it’s also essential to think about the ethical and environmental impact.
Mining Impact of Diamonds
Diamond mining can cause significant environmental damage, including deforestation and water pollution. There are also concerns about human rights violations in the diamond industry.
Production Process of Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is made in a lab, which has a much smaller environmental footprint. The process involves melting zirconium oxide powder at high temperatures to create the gemstone, which is then cut and polished.
| Aspect | Diamonds | Cubic Zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Impact | High (mining, habitat destruction) | Low (lab-created) |
| Ethical Concerns | Potential conflict funding | Minimal ethical issues |
| Production Method | Natural or lab-grown | Synthetic process |
For those concerned about ethical jewellery, cubic zirconia is often the better choice.
Conclusion
In the cubic zirconia vs diamond debate, both gemstones have their strengths. Cubic zirconia is a cost-effective option that looks similar to a diamond. It’s great for those who want the sparkle without the high price tag.
Diamonds, however, are known for their durability and long-term value, making them a better choice for everyday wear, especially in engagement rings. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, cubic zirconia might be the way to go. For those who value tradition and a long-term investment, diamonds remain the top pick.
Ultimately, the choice between cubic zirconia and diamonds comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and personal values. For a wide range of jewellery options, visit Hunters Fine Jewellery today.
FAQ
What is cubic zirconia, and how does it differ from diamonds? Cubic zirconia is a man-made gemstone made from zirconium dioxide. It looks like a diamond but is less durable and valuable. Diamonds are natural stones formed over billions of years.
How durable is cubic zirconia compared to diamonds? Diamonds are harder, scoring a 10 on the Mohs scale, while cubic zirconia scores 8.5. This makes diamonds more scratch-resistant.
What is the difference in brilliance between cubic zirconia and diamonds? Diamonds are more brilliant due to their higher refractive index. Cubic zirconia reflects more coloured light, creating a rainbow effect.
How do the prices of cubic zirconia and diamonds compare? Cubic zirconia is significantly cheaper than diamonds. A 1-carat cubic zirconia stone costs around £15, while a diamond of the same size can cost thousands.
Which option is more ethical and environmentally friendly? Diamond mining can be harmful to the environment and associated with human rights issues. Cubic zirconia is lab-made, making it a more eco-friendly option.