Cubic Zirconia Vs. Diamonds

You'll discover many captivating options if you search for a lab-made stone to adorn your engagement ring. From dazzling lab-grown diamonds to mesmerizing moissanite & even the enchanting allure of synthetic white sapphires, numerous choices suit your desires. 

And if budget & ethical considerations are at play, consider the captivating charm of cubic zirconia. This conflict-free alternative won't break the bank.

Cubic Zirconia - What Is It?

Cubic zirconia is classified as a diamond simulant. This gemstone resembles natural diamonds but is composed of different materials. While natural & lab-grown diamonds consist of carbon, cubic zirconia comprises zirconium dioxide (ZrO2). 

The "cubic" in its name is derived from its cubic crystalline form, similar to diamonds. Hence, cubic zirconia is an excellent alternative to diamonds because of its striking resemblance.

The material was initially utilized by scientists experimenting with various synthetic laser materials. In the 1970s, Russian scientists refined the method of cultivating individual cubic zirconia crystals. These transparent & lustrous crystals were then utilized to produce jewelry on a large scale. 

Cubic zirconia crystals have become a substitute for diamonds in necklaces, earrings, bracelets & rings.

Cubic Zirconia vs. Diamond - Differences

Are you curious about how cubic zirconia measures up against diamond? Let's dive into a comparison of their essential characteristics!

• Beauty

Like a diamond, Cubic zirconia has a natural colorlessness, setting it apart from most natural diamonds exhibiting a faint yellow or brown tint. Notably, cubic zirconia boasts complete clarity, comparable to a D color rating, while diamonds emit white light under natural illumination. 

In contrast, cubic zirconia exhibits enhanced fire, both effects being aesthetically pleasing & subject to personal preference. However, if one seeks that distinctive diamond sparkle, it eludes them in a cubic zirconia stone.

Cubic zirconia can also undergo color treatment using various elements, producing multiple hues. For a truly distinctive appearance, multi-colored cubic zirconia stones are available. These stones offer affordable & unique alternatives to fancy-colored diamonds or gemstones such as emeralds, rubies & sapphires.

Natural diamonds, as well as lab-grown diamonds, possess imperfections known as "inclusions" - minute flaws within the stone. In contrast, cubic zirconia lacks natural internal marks. Still, it exhibits distinctive indications of its lab-grown origin, such as minuscule gas bubbles containing unmelted zirconium dioxide powder used in its production. 

Following creation, cubic zirconia stones undergo cutting & polishing, enabling them to be fashioned into various traditional diamond shapes, including round, princess, pear & cushion.

• Durability

When searching for an engagement ring, the allure of a cubic zirconia stone based on its price can be tempting. While cubic zirconia rings are significantly more affordable than diamond rings & may appear indistinguishable at first glance, their beauty is short-lived. 

Within approximately two years, the charm of cubic zirconia fades away. In contrast, despite its higher cost, natural diamonds & other precious gemstones are enduring & will last a lifetime.

Diamonds are renowned for their exceptional hardness, ranking at an impressive 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Their remarkable durability ensures they remain scratch-resistant even with daily use. In contrast, cubic zirconia ranks at 8.5 on the hardness scale. 

While the difference may not appear significant, cubic zirconia is prone to scratches from everyday wear, including household dust. 

Additionally, cubic zirconia absorbs oils from the skin & other standard products. Over time, even the most lustrous cubic zirconia can develop a cloudy & scratched appearance.

While it may not be a significant issue if you replace your ring every few years, it is crucial to consider when comparing cubic zirconia to diamond.

• Price

Cubic zirconia is highly affordable due to its synthetic & mass-produced nature. A cut & polished one-carat cubic zirconia stone cost $20*, while a comparable two-carat stone costs approximately $30*. In contrast, diamonds are considerably more expensive, starting at $1800* for a one-carat diamond & increasing significantly with size.

Cubic zirconia engagement rings vary in price, primarily determined by the metal used for the setting. Rings in the $20*-$40* price range typically features brass, silver, or copper plated with gold or platinum. However, it is advisable to avoid these rings as the plating tends to wear away quickly. 

On the other hand, some websites offer cubic zirconia engagement rings priced at $100* or higher, featuring bands made from finer metals like 14K gold or platinum. It is important to note that cubic zirconia stones scratch & fade relatively quickly, losing their luster after approximately two years. 

Therefore, investing extra money in a higher-quality band may not be worth it when the entire ring will eventually be replaced.

Sterling silver or stainless steel are appropriate metals to complement cubic zirconia. These rings are priced between $50* & $90*. By choosing sterling silver or stainless steel, you can avoid concerns about plating chipping off & ensure that you are not paying excessively for the setting.

Another factor to consider is the grading of cubic zirconia. Various retailers classify their cubic zirconia stones using different grading systems, such as A, 1A, AAA, AAAAA, or 5A. Retailers claim that grade AAAAA stones are of the highest quality, while grade A stones are of the lowest rate. 

However, it is essential to note that these grading systems lack standardization across retailers & there are no established regulations to ensure consistent quality. Since cubic zirconia is synthetically produced on a large scale, the rate remains relatively constant across stones. 

It is crucial to understand that the cubic zirconia grading system is primarily a marketing tactic without any scientific basis. Avoid paying excessively for a cubic zirconia stone of purportedly superior quality.

Is Cubic Zirconia For You?

Individuals have unique preferences when it comes to engagement rings. For those with a limited budget, cubic zirconia is an excellent choice. Consider stainless steel or sterling silver cubic zirconia engagement rings, which offer beauty & affordability. These rings are durable, with the band & stone designed to last several years.

If your preferences evolve, a cubic zirconia engagement ring can be a viable alternative. Diamonds are known for their everlasting beauty, making selecting a stone & setting that will stand the test of time quite daunting. Cubic zirconia rings offer an affordable solution, allowing you to try one out for a period & determine if it aligns with your taste.

Cubic zirconia is a favored option for travel rings. A cubic zirconia ring is worth considering if you possess a diamond engagement ring but prefer to keep it safe at home during your vacation, at the beach or pool, or while engaging in outdoor activities like hiking or skiing.

There will be no discernible distinction! Concerns regarding damage, loss, or theft of your genuine ring will be alleviated.

The Bottom Line

• Cubic zirconia is a well-known alternative to diamonds due to its affordability & ethical sourcing. 
• With its striking resemblance to natural diamonds, it offers an attractive option. 
• However, it is essential to note that cubic zirconia lacks long-term durability. 
• Over time, daily wear may cause it to lose its shine & sparkle within a few years. 
• If you opt for a cubic zirconia stone for your engagement ring, consider pairing it with a high-quality sterling silver or stainless steel band for added durability. 
• Ultimately, choosing something that genuinely resonates with your preferences & style is the most crucial aspect.

Chic Jewelry - Premier Manufacturer Of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

At Chic Jewelry, we understand the appeal of cubic zirconia & its potential as a budget-friendly alternative to diamonds. We are committed to providing high-quality cubic zirconia jewelry that meets our customers' standards.

Our expert designers & craftsmen use only the finest materials to create stunning pieces that mimic the brilliance & sparkle of natural diamonds. We offer our customers various styles & designs of cubic zirconia engagement rings, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect ring within a wide price range.

In addition to providing high-quality jewelry, we also prioritize ethical sourcing. Our cubic zirconia stones are lab-grown, making them a sustainable & environmentally friendly choice. We believe in promoting responsible consumerism without compromising on style & quality.

Choose Chic Jewelry for your next cubic zirconia engagement ring or any other CZ jewelry needs & experience the perfect blend of affordability, durability & ethical sourcing. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every piece we create, making us a top choice for those seeking beautiful alternatives to natural diamonds. 

Make a bold statement with a stunning cubic zirconia engagement ring from Chic Jewelry today! Visit our website to explore our latest designs & find your perfect match. 

(* Please note that the provided prices are approximations & may fluctuate based on various factors. Please contact us at your convenience for the most current & accurate pricing inquiries.)