Lab Grown Diamond vs Cubic Zirconia: Which One is Right for You?
In the world of jewelry, choosing between lab grown diamonds vs cubic zirconia (CZ) is a common dilemma. Both are popular options for those looking for a stunning gemstone that doesn’t break the bank. But what are the real differences between these two stones? In this guide, we’ll compare lab grown diamonds with cubic zirconia to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Lab Grown Diamond?
A lab grown diamond is created using cutting-edge technology that replicates the natural process of diamond formation. These diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. The only difference? They are grown in a lab under controlled conditions.
Key Features of Lab Grown Diamonds:
- Real diamonds: Unlike cubic zirconia, lab grown diamonds are made from pure carbon and have the same crystal structure as natural diamonds.
- Sustainability: They are eco-friendly and involve fewer ethical concerns compared to mined diamonds.
- Durability: Lab grown diamonds are extremely hard (10 on the Mohs scale), making them suitable for everyday wear.
- Cost-Effective: Generally 30-40% cheaper than natural diamonds without sacrificing quality.
What is Cubic Zirconia (CZ)?
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone made from zirconium dioxide. It’s a popular diamond alternative due to its affordability and visual similarity to diamonds. However, CZ lacks many of the properties that make diamonds unique.
Key Features of Cubic Zirconia:
- Affordable: CZ is significantly less expensive than both natural and lab grown diamonds.
- Visual Appeal: It looks like a diamond to the naked eye, though it has less brilliance and fire.
- Lower Durability: CZ ranks at about 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more prone to scratches over time.
- Not a Real Diamond: Unlike lab grown diamonds, CZ doesn’t have the same chemical composition or structure as a diamond.
What is the Difference Between Cubic Zirconia vs Lab Diamond
| Feature | Lab Grown Diamond | Cubic Zirconia (CZ) |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Pure carbon (same as natural diamond) | Zirconium dioxide (synthetic) |
| Hardness | 10 on the Mohs scale | 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale |
| Brilliance | High brilliance and fire, similar to natural diamonds | Moderate brilliance and less fire |
| Cost | 30-40% cheaper than natural diamonds | Much cheaper than both natural and lab grown diamonds |
| Durability | Extremely durable, suitable for daily wear | Prone to scratches and clouding over time |
| Ethical Concerns | Minimal environmental and ethical impact | Environmentally friendly, but less durable |
Lab grown diamonds and cubic zirconia (CZ) are fundamentally different materials, despite their similar appearance. Here’s a comprehensive comparison:
Chemical Composition and Structure
Lab grown diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds, composed of pure carbon atoms arranged in a crystal structure. In contrast, cubic zirconia is made from zirconium dioxide, a completely different chemical compound.
Physical Properties
Hardness and Durability
- Lab Diamonds: Rate 10 on the Mohs scale, making them extremely resistant to scratches and wear
- Cubic Zirconia: Rates 8.25-8.50 on the Mohs scale, making it more susceptible to damage and scratching
Density and Weight
Cubic zirconia is approximately 1.7 times denser than diamonds, meaning a CZ stone of the same size will be noticeably heavier than a lab diamond.
Optical Properties
Brilliance and Fire
- Lab Diamonds: Have a refractive index of 2.417-2.419, producing the characteristic diamond sparkle
- Cubic Zirconia: Has a lower refractive index of 2.171-2.177, resulting in different light patterns and more rainbow-like effects
Appearance Over Time
Lab diamonds maintain their clarity and brilliance indefinitely, while cubic zirconia tends to become cloudy and dull over time, with no amount of cleaning able to restore its original appearance.
Value and Cost
Price Points
- Lab Diamonds: Cost about 30-40% less than natural diamonds but significantly more than CZ
- Cubic Zirconia: Costs a fraction of both natural and lab-grown diamonds
Value Retention
Lab diamonds generally maintain better value over time, while cubic zirconia has minimal resale value.
Manufacturing Process
Lab Diamonds
Created through either:
- High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT)
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
These processes replicate natural diamond formation using diamond seeds and precise environmental controls.
Cubic Zirconia
They are manufactured by melting zirconium oxide powder at temperatures around 4982°F to create a synthetic crystal.
Practical Considerations
Best Uses
- Lab Diamonds: Ideal for long-term jewelry pieces, especially engagement rings and other significant pieces.
- Cubic Zirconia: Better suited for temporary or fashion jewelry where longevity is less important
Are Lab Grown Diamonds the Same as Cubic Zirconia?
No, lab grown diamonds are not cubic zirconia. Although both are man-made, the two differ greatly in terms of composition, durability, and overall value. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds, whereas cubic zirconia is an entirely different synthetic material.
Why Choose Lab Grown Diamonds Over Cubic Zirconia?
- Longevity: A lab grown diamond will last forever, while CZ is prone to scratches and dullness over time.
- Real Diamond Properties: Lab grown diamonds offer the same brilliance, fire, and hardness as natural diamonds.
- Value Retention: Lab grown diamonds hold more value than cubic zirconia, which has little to no resale value.
- Symbolism: Diamonds, whether natural or lab grown, are timeless symbols of love and commitment. CZ, on the other hand, is often viewed as a more temporary or fashion-focused option.
Why Choose Cubic Zirconia Over Lab Grown Diamonds?
- Affordability: If you’re on a tight budget or need a temporary piece, CZ is a fraction of the cost.
- Variety: CZ is available in a wide range of colors and cuts, offering versatility for fashion jewelry.
- Appearance: For short-term wear or for those unconcerned about longevity, CZ mimics the appearance of a diamond at a much lower price point.
FAQs:
Are lab grown diamonds cubic zirconia?
No, lab diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds, while cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone made of zirconium dioxide.
Is a lab grown diamond a CZ?
No, a lab grown diamond is a real diamond, while CZ is a diamond simulant with different properties.
What’s the difference between lab grown diamonds and cubic zirconia?
The main difference is in the material and properties. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same hardness, brilliance, and durability as natural diamonds. CZ is a more affordable alternative with less durability and brilliance.
Are grown diamonds better than cubic zirconia?
Yes, Lab grown diamonds are superior in terms of durability, brilliance, and long-term value, while CZ is more affordable for those looking for a temporary or budget-friendly option.