Compare Diamond, Cultured Diamonds And Cubic Zirconia

When shopping for diamond jewelry, some people become confused about the differences between cubic zirconia, cultured diamonds and natural diamonds. There are some important differences between these options that should be understood before looking for jewelry set with these gems. Besides the price difference that exists between the three options, there are also quality and appearance variations that need to be considered when choosing between cultured diamonds, natural diamonds and cubic zirconia.

Diamond is a natural gem which is not made by man. Diamonds, which are formed from a specific formation of carbon atoms, are the hardest substance in nature and are mined from the earth. There is often a certain amount of controversy surrounding the mining of natural diamonds, and as such, some individuals prefer to purchase diamond alternatives. Cubic zirconia and cultured diamonds are less costly than mined diamonds.

Cubic zirconia is similar to natural diamonds in some aspects, but also differs in many ways. Cubic zirconia is optically flawless because it is synthesized, and it is very hard. clear white.

Cubic zirconia is a less expensive diamond alternative, although as compared to mined or cultured diamonds, it is not nearly as hard.

Cultured diamond is another popular alternative to mined diamonds. Often referred to as lab grown diamonds, cultured diamonds are made to be identical chemically, physically and optically to naturally mined diamonds. Cultured diamonds are generally less expensive than natural diamonds, but they are still much more expensive than cubic zirconia or diamond hybrid. Cultured diamonds are available in brilliant colorless white stones, as well as a variety of different colored stones.

One variety of natural diamond alternative which has specific advantages over the other options is the diamond hybrid. A crystalline core is covered with a layer of diamond to create a diamond hybrid. The resulting effect is brilliant, producing a very hard gem with an index refraction and light dispersion which is very close to that of a natural diamond. These hybrid diamonds do not become discolored over time, and when expertly cut and polished, are absolutely brilliant.

While hybrid diamonds are more expensive than cubic zirconia, they are less expensive than mined or traditional cultured diamonds. As such, they are an increasingly popular option for those who want the sparkle and beauty of diamonds without the need to actually buy the real thing.