When searching for a lab-created gemstone that both sparkles like a diamond and is affordable, you have several choices. Among these, cubic zirconia and moissanite stand out, dazzling with their fiery beauty and rainbow flashes. However, beneath their glittering exteriors lie unique characteristics, origins, and properties. Here’s an in-depth look at moissanite vs. cubic zirconia.
What is Cubic Zirconia?
Crafted from zirconium dioxide, cubic zirconia, often referred to as CZ, is a manmade gem that’s remarkably durable. With a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs Scale, CZ is quite resistant to scratches. Its brilliance is a result of its high refractive index, which significantly bends light and creates a captivating play of colors.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite, composed of silicon carbide, is known for its double refraction, which splits light into stunning rainbows and a kaleidoscope of colors, making it even more scintillating than a diamond. Scoring a 9.25 on the Mohs Scale, moissanite is also an excellent choice for everyday jewelry.
A Tale of Two Gems: Origins & Properties
While cubic zirconia can naturally occur, it is extremely rare. In the mid-1970s, scientists created cubic zirconia in labs by applying intense heat and pressure. These synthetic gems were affordable and brilliant enough to serve as diamond substitutes. Cubic zirconia is versatile, adapting to various cuts and colors, suitable for both casual and special occasion jewelry.
In contrast, moissanite has more intriguing origins. Discovered in a meteorite crater by Henri Moissan in the 19th century, it is rare in nature. Replicating its formation process in the lab, today’s lab-grown moissanite retains its otherworldly allure and remarkable sparkle.
Differences Between Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia
Aside from their origins, both gemstones offer appealing physical properties and price points. As lab-grown stones, both CZ and moissanite serve as sustainable alternatives to natural mined diamonds.
Durability
While diamonds are the hardest mineral with a perfect 10 on the Mohs Scale, minerals scoring between 6 to 9 are also considered hard and can scratch glass. Moissanite, scoring 9.25, and cubic zirconia, at 8.5, both make durable choices for everyday rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Brilliance
Moissanite is unique in its brilliance, surpassing diamonds due to its higher refractive index, which measures how light bends within the gem. Though cubic zirconia has slightly lower refractive properties, both gems offer remarkable sparkle.
Color
Lab-grown gemstones allow scientists to control every detail of the process, resulting in a wide range of colors. While many diamond-like moissanite stones are colorless or nearly so, they can also come in smoky grays, browns, yellows, greens, blues, and pinks. Similarly, cubic zirconia is available in numerous hues, from light green to lavender and near-colorless.
Affordability
Cubic zirconia is inexpensive and has no resale value, making it an ideal choice for gifts for teens, tweens, or modern, trendy jewelry lovers. Moissanite, offering a more affordable alternative to natural or lab-grown diamonds, is a great option for engagement rings with larger center stones due to its fiery sparkle and lower cost.
TLC for Your CZ & Moissanite
Maintaining the sparkle of both CZ and moissanite requires minimal care. Regular cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush will keep them looking their best. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the settings or coatings.
It’s best to store these gemstones in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure may fade cubic zirconia’s brilliance. Moissanite is fine in sunlight but should be kept away from extreme heat.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite
Your choice will ultimately depend on individual priorities and budget. If affordability is your top concern, cubic zirconia is the better option. For those willing to spend a bit more for increased sparkle and durability, moissanite is the ideal selection.
Choose Cubic Zirconia If:
- Your budget is tight and you want variety.
- Bold statement pieces and playing with color appeal to you.
- You enjoy a playful, disco-ball kind of sparkle.
Select Moissanite If:
- You seek an ethical and sustainable alternative to mined diamonds.
- An exceptionally durable stone without diamond-level costs is important to you.
- Rainbow-infused brilliance catches your eye.
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