Cubic Zirconia Vs. Moissanite - The Ultimate Comparison

When choosing your perfect engagement ring online, you may be surprised to find that two gemstones look very similar - cubic zirconia and moissanite. Cubic Zirconia and Moissanite are popular diamond alternatives used in jewelry, but how to tell the difference between Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia? Well, you've come to the right place. In this article, you'll learn a comprehensive comparison of cubic zirconia and moissanite. Let's get started!

What You Need to Know about Cubic Zirconia

Cubic Zirconia (CZ for short) is a synthetic gemstone made from zirconium dioxide. It is optically similar to a diamond but is much less expensive. Cubic Zirconia is often used as a diamond simulant due to its brilliance and clarity.  Natural cubic zirconia was first discovered by German mineralogists in 1892. However, it is extremely rare in nature. Most cubic zirconia on the market today is synthetic. The first synthetic cubic zirconia was developed in a laboratory by Russian scientists in 1976.

Cubic zirconia and moissanite are often compared to diamonds. However, both cubic zirconia and moissanite have many characteristics that differ from diamonds. Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite will be the focus of this article.

Related: Moissanite vs Diamond: A Comprehensive Comparison

Cubic Zirconia Vs. Moissanite: A Comprehensive Comparison

Composition and Construction

Cubic zirconia and moissanite are both lab-created gemstones, but they are made up of different chemical substances. Cubic zirconia is made from zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), while moissanite is made from silicon carbide (SiC). These differing compositions cause their physical and optical properties to vary.

Hardness and Durability

Cubic Zirconia can reach a Mohs scale of around 8-8.5, while Moissanite is known for its exceptional hardness, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale. Diamond has a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest stone in the world. Cubic Zirconia is softer than Moissanite, which means that Moissanite is harder and more durable, making it less likely to be scratched. However, with the right care, cubic zirconia can be worn every day.

Color and Appearance

Cubic Zirconia is often colorless and is often used as a diamond simulant due to its high luster and sparkle. It can also be produced in a variety of colors. Moissanite is usually colorless or near colorless, but may have a slightly yellow or greenish hue under certain lighting conditions. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamond, giving it more brilliance and fire.

Brilliance and Sparkle

CZ has a refractive index of approximately 2.15-2.18 and moissanite has a higher refractive index of approximately 2.65-2.69. Moissanite has a higher refractive index than cubic zirconia, which means it has a greater ability to bend and reflect light. This results in moissanite having a more intense and vibrant sparkle than cubic zirconia and diamonds, often creating a dazzling appearance. If you prefer more sparkle and brilliance, a moissanite engagement ring is a good choice. Conversely, if you prefer a softer sparkle, a cubic zirconia engagement ring is another good choice.

Clarity and Inclusions

CZ is known for its high clarity. As a lab-created gemstone, it is typically free from inclusions or blemishes, resulting in a very clear and pristine appearance. Moissanite is also manufactured to high standards, but it may have some minor inclusions that are usually not visible to the naked eye. Therefore, cubic zirconia has a higher clarity level compared to moissanite and is often used as a diamond simulant. However, both cubic zirconia and moissanite offer excellent clarity, but CZ is often considered more pristine in appearance.

Price and Affordability

Cubic Zirconia is much more affordable than both diamonds and moissanite, making it one of the most budget-friendly options for gemstone jewelry. Moissanite is generally more expensive than cubic zirconia. While it is still more affordable than natural diamonds, moissanite's price is higher due to factors such as its rarity, hardness, and diamond-like properties. The low cost of cubic zirconia makes it a popular and budget-friendly choice for those who want a diamond-like appearance without the high price tag. Moissanite, while more expensive than CZ, offers better brilliance, fire, and durability, making it a great value for those looking for a high-quality alternative to diamonds.

Similarities between Cubic Zirconia and Moissanite

Ethical Consideration

Both cubic zirconia and moissanite are lab-created gemstones. They are generally more sustainable than the mining of natural gemstones. As such, they are free from the ethical concerns associated with conflict diamonds (also known as blood diamonds). Cubic Zirconia and Moissanite share similar ethical benefits. This makes them excellent choices for those who prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing in their jewelry purchases.

Usage and Versatility

Both CZ and moissanite are popular choices as diamond alternatives in jewelry. They are widely used in various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and pendants. They are frequently incorporated into trendy and fashion-forward designs, allowing individuals to stay stylish without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

After reading this article, you may have a basic understanding of the comparison of moissanite vs cubic zirconia. Juyoyo is a safe and professional place to find your ideal engagement ring if you are considering moissanite engagement rings or cubic zirconia engagement rings!