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Two Engagement Rings Set With Simulated DiamondsTwo Engagement Rings Set With Simulated Diamonds

What Is a Simulated Diamond?

The term “diamond simulant” refers to any gemstone that mimics the look of a diamond but has different chemical and physical properties.

Simulated Diamond Meaning: How Are They Different Than Diamonds?

A simulated diamond is a gemstone that resembles a natural diamond visually but has different chemical and physical properties. While they may appear similar at first glance, the properties, composition, and creation process differ between simulated diamonds and real diamonds. This means lab grown diamonds are not diamond simulants because lab grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and visual properties as diamonds. The primary differences between diamonds and simulated diamonds are:  

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.

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Simulated Diamond vs. Lab Diamond

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.  

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 to the naked eye, simulants can be identified by their differing optical and physical properties. 

Lab-grown diamonds and simulated diamonds are fundamentally different: 

Fundamental Differences

Lab-grown diamonds are genuine diamonds with identical chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, just created in laboratories rather than mined. Simulated diamonds only resemble diamonds visually with entirely different compositions and structures. 

Creation Process

Lab diamonds form through High Pressure High Temperature or Chemical Vapor Deposition. Simulants are manufactured through various processes specific to each material type. 

Certification

Lab diamonds receive standard diamond grading (4 C’s: cut, color, clarity, carat) from major gemological laboratories. Simulants cannot be graded on the same diamond scales and don't receive traditional diamond certifications.

Two Engagement Rings Set With Simulated Diamonds

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.”  

Moissanite Guide | Shop Moissanites 

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 offer cubic zirconia.

*Please note that Brilliant Earth does not carry cubic zirconia.

Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite Guide | Cubic Zirconia vs. Diamond Guide

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.

*Please note that Brilliant Earth does not carry glass.

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How to 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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Simulated Diamond FAQ

Are simulated diamonds real?

Simulated diamonds are made from different materials that visually resemble diamonds but lack the distinct chemical and physical properties of diamonds.

What is a diamond simulant?

A diamond simulant is any material that resembles a diamond's appearance but has different chemical, physical, and optical properties. Common examples include cubic zirconia, moissanite, and white sapphire.

What are simulated diamonds made of?

  • Cubic Zirconia: Zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) 
  • Moissanite: Silicon carbide (SiC) 
  • White Sapphire: Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) 
  • Glass/Crystal: Silicon dioxide (SiO₂) with various additives

Do simulated diamonds pass diamond tester?

Most simulants fail standard thermal conductivity diamond testers. Moissanite may register as "diamond" on basic testers, which is why jewelers use dual-testing devices measuring both thermal and electrical conductivity.

Will a simulated diamond test real?

No diamond simulant can pass all proper gemological tests for diamond authenticity. While some might pass specific individual tests, comprehensive professional testing will always reveal a simulant's authentic identity.

Are simulated diamonds lab grown?

Simulant diamonds can be lab grown. Moissanite and cubic zirconia are examples of popular simulant diamonds that are lab grown. However, simulated diamonds are not lab grown diamonds.

Are simulated diamonds good?

Simulants offer many advantages, such as affordability. Limitations include reduced durability and not being actual diamonds. Simulated diamonds are good choices for fashion jewelry or budget-conscious consumers.

Are simulated diamonds real diamonds?

No. Simulated diamonds and real diamonds differ fundamentally in chemical composition (not carbon), physical properties (different hardness/durability), and optical characteristics (different light interaction).

How do you clean simulated diamonds?

Most simulated diamonds can be cleaned by:


  1. Soak in mild dish soap and warm water for 10-20 minutes 
  2. Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush 
  3. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a lint-free cloth 


Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme temperature changes, as simulants are often more sensitive than diamonds.

Are simulated diamonds cubic zirconia?

Cubic zirconia is one type of diamond simulant, but not all simulants are cubic zirconia. Other common simulants include moissanite, white sapphire, and various types of glass.

What is the best simulated diamond?

Moissanite is generally considered the premium diamond simulant due to:

 

  • Superior hardness (9.25) suitable for daily wear 
  • Exceptional brilliance and fire 
  • Excellent durability and longevity 
  • Responsible lab creation 


However, the "best" choice depends on personal priorities.