Jewelry today can offer you a variety of precious stones, and the real choice is not whether or not you want the jewelry, but what kind of jewelry you want. The symbol of luxury and eternal love for a long time, natural diamonds, today's world in which we are more and more weighty due to the number of consumers who would rather opt for more sustainable and cheaper alternatives. Among these two more popular options are the cheapest sources of bright color. Known as lab grown diamonds and cubic zirconia, there is a core difference between them. They look almost the same, but in fact, they are very different in terms of their chemical composition, cost, strength, and appearance.
Ready to decide which of the gems suits you better; "Lab Grown Diamond vs Cubic Zirconia-What's different and what suits me better?" is the question. Then the article here will help you.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
A lab-grown diamond (also called a man-made or synthetic diamond) is produced in a laboratory but is just like a natural diamond in terms of its physical, chemical, and optical properties. It is composed of carbon atoms in the same way as a mined diamond and arises under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods.
With respect to the fire, hardness, and luster of the stone, a lab-grown diamond is almost identical to a natural diamond. The chief thing that sets them apart is their origin.
Characteristics of Lab-Grown Diamonds:
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Unaltered diamond structure (carbon crystal)
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10 in Mohs scratch resistance grade (as hard as mined diamonds)
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Mined in a sustainable, environment-friendly way
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Price difference (20% up to 40% less expensive than natural diamonds)
What is Cubic Zirconia?
This is a synthetic gemstone made out of zirconium dioxide, which is called cubic zirconia (CZ). Unlike a grown diamond, CZ is completely different from a diamond. In fact, it is entirely produced artificially and looks like a diamond in terms of its appearance, with the only difference that it has different physical and chemical properties.
CZ has the reputation of having very high refractivity and dispersion abilities, and, thus, becomes widely used in costume jewelry and other fashion accessories. However, it is not as tough and not as expensive as natural or lab grown diamonds.
Characteristics of Cubic Zirconia:
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Made from zirconium dioxide
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8-8.5 in Mohs hardness scale
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Less costly than lab-grown diamonds
What is the Difference Between Cubic Zirconia vs Lab Diamond
Feature | Lab Grown Diamond | Cubic Zirconia (CZ) |
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Material | Pure carbon (same as natural diamond) | Zirconium dioxide (synthetic) |
Hardness | 10 on the Mohs scale | 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale |
Brilliance | High brilliance and fire, similar to natural diamonds | Moderate brilliance and less fire |
Cost | 30-40% cheaper than natural diamonds | Much cheaper than both natural and lab grown diamonds |
Durability | Extremely durable, suitable for daily wear | Prone to scratches and clouding over time |
Ethical Concerns | Minimal environmental and ethical impact | Environmentally friendly, but less durable |
Visual Differences: Lab Grown Diamond vs Cubic Zirconia
One can be fooled with the initial look of the two that are equally magnificent and sparkling, especially to someone who doesn't have all the expertise in the matter of gems. However, there are some clear visual differences between them:
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Brilliance and Fire: The brilliance and fire of lab grown diamonds are reminiscent of the sparkling visual effects of real natural black diamonds. The sharp, white and colorful flashes of light are visual signs of a real diamond. On the other hand, CZs have more rainbow-like flashes of light, which give them a rather artificial and too vivid look.
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Clarity and Color: CZ is mostly flawless and colorless, while lab-grown diamonds may have some inclusions and are available in different color grades, just like mined diamonds.
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Cloudy over Time: CZ, unlike diamonds, can easily lose their shine due to scratches and surface fogging, providing for a lasting lifetime of brilliance with diamonds.
Durability and Longevity
First and foremost, the durability factor will most likely be the biggest separator between the two stones.
Lab Grown Diamond Durability
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The hardest known substance and rated 10 on the Mohs scale. The Mohs scale rates the scratch resistance of rocks, metals, minerals, etc.
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Lab created diamonds are not only scratch-resistant but are considered some of the toughest materials on earth.
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Perfect even for engagement rings and daily operation.
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Cubic Zirconia Durability
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Usually, they are rated from 8 to 8.5 on Mohs scale.
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It is quite prone to scratching, chipping, and wearing on the surface.
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It should be noted that it is only suitable for occasional or fashionable wear and not for long-term use.
For an item that is not just for a moment but for a long time, diamonds produced in the lab outperform CZs.
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Which One is Right for You?
Choose Lab Grown Diamonds if:
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You want a real diamond alternative without the high cost of mined stones.
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You’re purchasing an engagement ring or a long-lasting gift.
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Ethical sourcing and sustainability matter to you.
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You want an investment piece with lasting beauty and durability.
Choose Cubic Zirconia if:
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You’re on a tight budget but still want something shiny.
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You need jewelry for occasional or temporary wear.
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You love changing your look and enjoy affordable fashion pieces.
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You’re not concerned about resale value or symbolism.
When lab grown diamonds vs cubic zirconia are juxtaposed, the decision still boils down to what you need most. Are you someone who appreciates diamond-solid durability, real diamond shine, and emotional value? Or is your focus more on the budget and stylishness of short-term wear?
Lab grown diamonds are also the most ethical option for those who actually want the real deal, but without the mining activities that have a very negative effect on the planet and still be affordable. On the contrary, cubic zirconia is the perfect choice for those who need the latest fashion trends in their collection and are relatively cost-effective.
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