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What is a Simulated Diamond? Diamond Simulants vs. Lab Grown Diamonds

Diamond Simulant vs. Lab Grown Diamond

Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds and simulants are not. While they may appear similar at first glance, their properties, composition, and creation process differ. Understanding these differences is important for making an informed purchasing decision.  

What is a simulated diamond?

A diamond simulant is a gemstone that looks like a diamond but does not share the same chemical or physical properties. These stones imitate the appearance of a diamond, offering a cost-effective alternative for those seeking the aesthetic of a diamond. 

How are diamond simulants different than diamonds?

The term “diamond simulant” refers to any material that mimics the look of a diamond. Diamond simulants differ from diamonds in several ways. The key aspect of a diamond simulant is how close it looks to a real diamond, even though it does not possess the same durability, refractive index, or other characteristics of true diamonds.  

Composition and Physical Properties

Diamonds are made of carbon atoms in a cubic crystal structure, giving them unmatched hardness and distinct brilliance. Lab grown diamonds share this chemical composition. In contrast, diamond simulants like cubic zirconia (made of zirconium dioxide) are typically softer and less durable than diamonds. 

Optical Characteristics

Diamonds have a high refractive index and strong dispersion, resulting in their unique sparkle. Simulants, such as cubic zirconia, have different refractive and dispersion rates, which can lead to variations in brilliance and the colors they display. 

Value and Durability

Diamonds are valued for their rarity, beauty, and durability. Simulants are generally more affordable but less durable, based on the Mohs scale. 

Diamond Simulant vs. Lab Grown Diamond

Diamond Simulants vs. Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds are not diamond simulants. They are real diamonds. Lab grown diamonds are created using advanced technological processes that replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form. Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. They have the same hardness, brilliance, and durability. Learn more about lab grown diamonds in our comprehensive guide

Diamond Simulants

Diamond simulants look like diamonds but do not share their properties. They do not mimic the formation process of natural diamonds but aim to replicate their appearance. While lab grown diamonds are indistinguishable from natural diamonds, simulants can be identified by their differing optical and physical properties. 

Popular Diamond Simulants

Several materials are commonly used as diamond simulants, each with its own unique characteristics. 

Moissanite

Moissanite is a popular and stunning diamond alternative, known for its exceptional brilliance and fire. It is nearly as hard as a diamond, scoring 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable option for everyday wear. Moissanite’s refractive index is higher than that of diamond, giving it a unique sparkle that some call a “rainbow effect.” Learn more about moissanite in our Moissanite vs. Diamond Guide

Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

Cubic zirconia is one of the most well-known diamond simulants. It is prized for its high brilliance and clarity, which closely resemble those of a real diamond. However, it is softer than a diamond, rating about 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale compared to diamond’s 10. Cubic zirconia is also heavier than a diamond and can exhibit a slightly stronger brilliance. Brilliant Earth does not carry cubic zirconia. 

Glass

Glass is a less common material for diamond simulants. It is significantly softer than both cubic zirconia and moissanite, making it more prone to scratching and damage. Its optical properties also fall short of replicating the brilliance and fire of a real diamond. Brilliant Earth does not carry any glass diamond simulants. 

Diamond Simulant vs. Lab Grown Diamond

How can you tell the difference between diamond simulants and diamonds?

Visual Inspection 

Under magnification, simulants often show different optical properties. For example, cubic zirconia may exhibit less clarity and a more intense sparkle when compared to diamonds. Moissanite displays double refraction, causing a visual doubling effect on facets. 

Professional Appraisal

A professional gemologist can quickly provide a definitive determination if a stone is a diamond or a simulant. 

Understanding the differences between diamond simulants and real diamonds is important for making informed decisions about purchases. Diamond simulants offer a cost-effective alternative with a similar appearance to diamonds but come with different properties and durability levels. Recognizing these differences helps ensure that you select the right stone for your jewelry. 

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Comments (17)

Mary Middleton Says:
August 16th, 2019 at 6:56 am

I would love a created diamond
.

Geri McGladrigan Says:
October 28th, 2018 at 6:04 pm

Looking for most excellent simulant

Carol Sue Harge Says:
June 18th, 2018 at 2:37 pm

How delightful it is not the ring or the marriage certificate that makes a wonderful marriage it is two hearts full of
compassion and unconditional love.

judi woolf Says:
March 8th, 2018 at 2:08 pm

Hi, After looking at all your gems for months now it’s clear I must create a ring for myself. Knowing how you help others is a BIG bonus. My 65th birhday is next Jan.25th so that is my target date. You once had a ring “toyon” maybe? It was very much my style, simple classic plus large enough for my “man hands”. LOL ! Pear & oval shapes plus autumn colours are my favourites so work your magic and send me some ideas. Please & thank you from a fan forever 🙂

B. Earth Says:
February 27th, 2017 at 11:52 am

Hi Grace, you can view all of our colored gemstones here: http://www.brilliantearth.com/colored-gemstones. Just select “Colored Diamond” and “pink” from the filter options to narrow your search. Our jewelry specialists would also be happy to help you find your dream diamond. You can contact them at 1.800.691.0952 or through the live chat on our site. Thanks for your interest!

Grace Strumpfer Says:
February 25th, 2017 at 2:04 am

Hi ,
Do you sell Lab created Pink Diamonds? Around 1.00ct in size?

Kakadiya Group Says:
September 9th, 2016 at 4:03 am

Sharing Such a Informative Information Regarding Lab Grown Diamonds….!

ABDUR Rahman Al-Mullick Says:
September 5th, 2016 at 8:32 am

i like this psge n found is very useful.

LORRAINE TOMASI Says:
July 26th, 2016 at 6:02 pm

I have inherited a group of 63 simulant diamonds of multiple colors (cyrstal, dark blue & red, light blue & red orcard, black, opal) , sizes and shapes. They were an investment from 1970 (?). How do I go about selling them?

B. Earth Says:
April 21st, 2016 at 12:16 pm

Hi Lee,

You can search for 1 carat lab diamonds using our lab diamond search to get exact prices, as diamond prices vary due to diamond characteristics like cut, clarity, and color. You can find the search here: http://www.brilliantearth.com/lab-diamonds-search/. Please call us at 1.800.691.0952 or use the live chat on our website and our jewelry experts will be happy to assist you in finding the perfect diamonds. Thanks for your interest!

Lee Johnson Says:
April 20th, 2016 at 5:19 pm

I have a ring actually my wife has the ring. I had it made in Mexico for her using 3 1 carot CZ stones. The ring is made with 18 carot gold and has been noticed by one Hollywood star who my wife had sign her program when we were at the Mac Calom theatre in Palm Springs. I am sure that no one thought the ring was CZ as she recognized the 18 carot gold, but my wife was sure they spoted the CZ and will never wear the ring again. I would like to replace the stones with real diamonds so she wears the ring again. What would 3 1 carot lab created diamonds cost.

B. Earth Says:
April 18th, 2016 at 10:50 am

Hi Salvador,

You can find exact prices for the lab diamonds you’re looking for here: http://www.brilliantearth.com/lab-diamonds-search/. Our jewelry specialists would be happy to offer more assistance at 1.800.691.0952 or by using the live chat on our website. Thanks for your interest!

Salvador Manahan Says:
April 16th, 2016 at 1:07 pm

How much is your D Color Princess Cut VVS1 loose lab created diamond?

B. Earth Says:
November 5th, 2015 at 10:07 am

Hi Lysa, you can view the carat weights and prices of our diamonds here: http://www.brilliantearth.com/loose-diamonds/search/. Our jewelry specialists would also be more than happy to advise you on purchasing a diamond and answer your questions in more depth via email (http://www.brilliantearth.com/contact/) or at 800.691.0952. Thank you for your interest!

Shallysa S. Says:
November 4th, 2015 at 11:56 pm

Hi,
I would like to know how much a loose 0.50 carat radiant cut, D color VVS1 lab created diamond would cost, please. Thanks a mil!

Lysa

B. Earth Says:
June 18th, 2015 at 9:11 am

Hi Ray, our jewelry specialists would be more than happy to advise you on your options and answer your questions in more depth via email (http://www.brilliantearth.com/contact/) or at 800.691.0952. Thanks for your interest!

Ray Miracle Says:
June 17th, 2015 at 7:20 pm

Can you send me some D-F color Vs1-S1 clarity in a halo design 2.00ct or higher looking to spend about 2k