Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite
Moissanite and cubic zirconia (CZ) offer unique qualities that appeal to different preferences and budgets. While they may seem similar at first glance, their differences in composition, hardness, sparkle, and other characteristics make them suitable for distinct purposes.
Composition
Moissanite is made of silicon carbide, a compound created either naturally in meteorites or in controlled laboratory environments.
Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is composed of zirconium dioxide and is entirely synthetic.
Sparkle
Moissanite’s higher refractive index contributes to its unique brilliance characterized by a fiery, rainbow-like sparkle. This appearance is often compared to diamonds but is more colorful and intense.
Cubic zirconia also sparkles, but its refractive index is lower than that of moissanite. CZ produces a brilliance that is almost as lustrous as a diamond’s, with a higher dispersion.
Durability
Moissanite's hardness is rated at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it highly resistant to scratching.
Cubic zirconia ranks at 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is less durable than moissanite and more prone to surface wear over time.
Price
The price difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia is significant. Moissanite is generally more expensive due to its durability, brilliance, and production costs. Prices vary based on size and quality, but moissanite remains an affordable alternative to diamonds.
Cubic zirconia is among the most budget-friendly diamond simulants, often costing a fraction of the price of moissanite. Its affordability makes it a popular choice for costume jewelry or temporary pieces.
*Please note that Brilliant Earth does not carry cubic zirconia.
Main Difference Between Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia
The main difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia lies in their physical properties and appearance. Moissanite is harder, more durable, and offers greater brilliance, making it suitable for long-term wear. Cubic zirconia, while less durable, provides a more subdued sparkle and is an economical choice for short-term use or decorative jewelry.
How to Tell Moissanite from CZ
You can distinguish moissanite from cubic zirconia by examining their sparkle, hardness, and weight:
Sparkle: Moissanite’s fire is more colorful and intense compared to cubic zirconia’s subtler brilliance. Moissanite is doubly refractive, so it will split light rays in two as they enter the stone, whereas CZ is singly refractive, keeping incoming light in one ray.
Hardness: Moissanite, being harder, resists scratches better than cubic zirconia.
Weight: Cubic zirconia is denser, making it noticeably heavier than moissanite of the same size.
Professional gemological tools can also identify these gemstones with precision by measuring their refractive indices and thermal conductivity.
Is Moissanite Better Than Cubic Zirconia?
Whether moissanite is better than cubic zirconia depends on your priorities and preferences. Moissanite is superior in terms of durability, brilliance, and long-term value, making it ideal for engagement rings and everyday wear. Cubic zirconia offers an affordable and visually appealing option for temporary or occasional use but is less durable.
For those seeking a more sustainable, high-quality alternative to diamonds, moissanite is often the better choice.