Comparing Diamond, Cultured Diamonds And Cubic Zirconia

There is often some confusion when looking for diamond jewelry because of the differences between real diamonds, cultured diamonds, and cubic zirconia. While all of these gems are popular when set into jewelry, there are some important differences between these gems that should be explained. When choosing between cubic zirconia, cultured diamonds and natural diamonds, there are appearance and quality differences to consider, in addition to the cost variations between the three gem choices.

Diamond is a natural gem which is not manufactured. Diamonds are mined from the earth, and are the hardest material found in nature, being composed of a particular carbon atom formation. There is often a certain degree of controversy surrounding the mining of real diamonds, and as such, some individuals prefer to buy diamond alternatives. Cubic zirconia and cultured diamonds are less expensive than mined diamonds.

There are some differences between cubic zirconia and natural diamonds, although they often appear similar. 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 option to mined diamonds. Often referred to as lab grown diamonds, cultured diamonds are created to be identical chemically, physically and optically to natural diamonds. Cultured diamonds are still more costly than diamond hybrid or cubic zirconia, but they are more economically priced than real diamonds. Cultured diamonds are available in brilliant colorless white stones, as well as many different colored stones.

One type of natural diamond alternative which has distinct advantages over the other choices is the diamond hybrid. A crystalline core is covered with a layer of diamond to make a diamond hybrid. This produces a very hard and brilliant gem that looks very similar to a mined diamond in regards to light dispersion and index refraction. These hybrid diamonds do not become discolored over time, and when cut by an expert and polished, are absolutely brilliant.

While hybrid diamonds are more expensive than cubic zirconia, they are less expensive than natural or traditional cultured diamonds. These beautiful gems are becoming quite popular as an alternative to mined diamonds for those who want the beauty and sparkle of a diamond without the high price.