Cubic Zirconia vs Lab-Grown Diamonds

When it comes to choosing jewellery, understanding the materials used is crucial. Two popular choices are Cubic Zirconia (CZ) and Lab-Grown Diamonds. While they may appear similar, they have differences that set them apart. 

Origin and Composition

Cubic Zirconia is a synthetic gemstone, made from zirconium dioxide. It’s often used as a diamond substitute due to its visual similarity and affordability.  On the other hand, Lab-Grown Diamonds are pure crystallized carbon diamonds created in a controlled laboratory environment. They share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. 

Creation Process

Cubic Zirconia is created synthetically, while Lab-Grown Diamonds are formed using advanced technology that mimics the natural diamond formation process. There are two main methods used to create Lab-Grown Diamonds: High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).

Hardness and Durability

Lab-Grown Diamonds are harder than Cubic Zirconia, rating a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale compared to Cubic Zirconia’s rating of 8.51.

Weight and Specific Gravity

Cubic Zirconia has a greater specific gravity (5.95) than Lab-Grown Diamonds (3.52), meaning a Cubic Zirconia stone will feel heavier than a Lab-Grown Diamond of the same size. 

Given their similarity to diamonds, jewellery with Cubic Zirconia is often called as imitation jewellery. Since its affordable, CZ is used in jewellery as an alternative to diamonds.