Smart Shopping: Cubic Zirconia vs Diamond

Cubic zirconia is an inexpensive diamond alternative.

Cubic zirconia is a popular diamond lookalike grown in a lab and available for a much lower cost than a diamond. An experienced jeweler can easily distinguish a diamond from cubic zirconia, but there are a few differences anyone can notice.

Color

One of the most obvious ways to distinguish cubic zirconia from diamond is to observe the colors emitted from each. While diamond emits brilliant flashes of white light, cubic zirconia emits sparkling, colored flashes of light. This is because cubic zirconia is completely colorless, while a completely colorless diamond is almost impossible to locate.

Price

There is a huge price difference between cubic zirconia and diamond. While a typical diamond engagement ring costs between $3,500 and $4,000, a similar ring made of cubic zirconia typically costs less than a couple hundred dollars.

Emotional/Cultural Value

While cubic zirconia is beautiful and inexpensive, there is a cultural value in the cost and rarity of a legitimate diamond. If you or the person receiving the stone doesn't mind, cubic zirconia could be a great alternative. But keep in mind that many people will be able to tell easily the difference between each stone -- so don't hand someone a cubic zirconia and expect them not to notice the difference!

References

• Jewelry-Secrets: CZ vs. Diamond
• Gottrocks: How to Tell a Diamond from a Cubic Zirconia
• Diamond Simulants: Cubic Zirconiacu