What is the Difference Between Diamond & Cubic Zirconia?

Diamonds and cubic zirconia may look pretty similar at a glance or distance. But there are significant differences between the two in quality, beauty and, of course, value. Diamonds are available in natural and synthetic varieties. Synthetic diamonds are lab-made diamonds that are visually and chemically quite similar to the mined diamonds. 

And like synthetic diamonds, cubic zirconia is manmade. They are made of zirconium dioxide; whereas, diamonds are made of carbon. CZ looks like a diamond, but its mineral properties and structures are different from diamonds. Moreover, they are the least expensive lab-grown gemstones. 

Natural diamonds have a unique, unrivalled sparkle and glamour that get manifested in their steep prices. They also have a good resale value. If you sell a loose diamond of 1carat or above, you are likely to secure a premium price from potential diamond buyers. 

So let’s find out the significant differences between diamonds and cubic zirconia.

Diamond vs Cubic Zirconia

Appearance

Many people believe that diamonds have a clear, transparent appearance. But it is essential to note that diamonds can come with a light yellow, brown or grey tint. Gemologists grade a diamond’s colour between D-Z based on this tint. For instance, a diamond with an “M” colour grade will be yellower than the one with a colour grade “F”. 

On the contrary, cubic zirconia is typically colourless entirely, which indicates it is not a diamond. Another significant difference between CZ and diamond is that –

Diamonds possess natural inclusions that you can see only under a microscope. And they are the tell-tale signs that the diamond is genuine. 

Configuration

The composition of cubic zirconia and diamond is very different. Diamonds are the hardest gemstones available to humanity, whereas cubic zirconia rates much lower in hardness. While a diamond is made up of carbon, it makes the gem hard and sparkling. 

You can spot the difference between a diamond and cubic zirconia by weighing them. Cubic zirconia and diamond can be of a similar size. But while the cubic zirconia is a little bit denser, its weight will be more. 

Brilliance

What greatly influences a diamond’s beauty is its cut. The cut determines how much light a diamond will reflect on your eyes through its table. While white light reflection is known as brilliance, the coloured light reflection is referred to as fire. 

However, cubic zirconias do not have any real fire or brilliance. The refractive index is much lower, ranging from 2.15 to 2.18. On the contrary, diamonds have a 2.42 refractive index. 

But keep note that diamond evaluators do not use the refractive index as a measure to appraise a diamond. 

Value

The price of a diamond varies depending on its size, 4Cs and other factors. However, cubic zirconia will always cost lesser than diamonds. The price is one of the most significant differences between these two gems. However, you have to use your common sense in certain instances. 

For example, a giant cubic zirconia stone is likely to cost more than a small diamond. However, the best way to avoid any perils is to choose a reputed diamond dealer.

Whether you want to sell loose diamonds or buy a diamond jewellery piece, you can feel more confident about the price you are getting or about the diamond you are adding to your collection when working with trusted diamond dealers.

Location: London, UK

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