Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite - Whats the difference and Buying Guide
When buying diamonds or diamond alternatives, there are many options to choose from. Apart from lab grown diamonds and mined diamonds, two of the most commonly compared alternatives are cubic zirconia (CZ) and moissanite.
Because CZ and moissanite display similar visual characteristics, many buyers find it difficult to decide which one is better for their needs. Understanding the difference between cubic zirconia and moissanite can help you make an informed decision—whether you’re shopping for fashion jewelry, engagement rings, or long-term heirloom pieces.
This guide breaks down CZ vs moissanite using practical, buyer-focused criteria.
CZ vs Moissanite: Key Differences at a Glance
|
Comparison Factor
|
Cubic Zirconia (CZ)
|
Moissanite
|
|
Hardness (Mohs Scale)
|
8.0 – 8.5
|
9.25 – 9.5
|
|
Brilliance & Fire
|
Good brilliance, moderate fire
|
Exceptional brilliance and fire
|
|
Density
|
5.6 – 6.0 g/cm³ (heavier)
|
3.2 g/cm³ (lighter)
|
|
Durability Over Time
|
May scratch and turn cloudy
|
Highly durable, retains clarity
|
|
Color Stability
|
Can yellow over time
|
Slight yellow or gray tint possible
|
|
Best Use Case
|
Fashion & budget jewelry
|
Engagement & heirloom jewelry
|
What Is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a diamond simulant made from zirconium dioxide. It is entirely man-made and designed to visually resemble diamonds at a much lower cost.
Key Characteristics of CZ
-
Diamond-like appearance at first glance
-
Affordable and widely accessible
-
Similar optical properties to diamonds
-
Best suited for fashion jewelry and short-term use
Because of its low cost, cubic zirconia is commonly used for:
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite occurs naturally but is extremely rare. Nearly all moissanite used in jewelry today is lab-created, making it a sustainable and ethical diamond alternative.
Why Moissanite Is Popular
-
Exceptional brilliance and fire (often more than diamonds)
-
High durability and scratch resistance
-
Suitable for engagement rings and heirloom jewelry
-
Maintains clarity over decades
Moissanite’s optical performance is one of the main reasons it’s often chosen over CZ.
Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia: Factors to Compare
1. Appearance and Sparkle
Cubic Zirconia
-
Good brilliance with moderate fire
-
Slightly glassy appearance over time
-
Typically colorless (D color equivalent)
Moissanite
-
Exceptional brilliance and dispersion
-
Produces a strong rainbow “disco ball” effect
-
May show a slight yellow or gray tint in some lighting
2. Hardness and Durability
Hardness plays a major role in long-term wear.
Cubic zirconia may:
Moissanite:
3. Price Comparison
Cubic Zirconia
Moissanite
4. Ethical and Environmental Considerations
Both CZ and moissanite are lab grown, making them more ethical and sustainable than mined diamonds.
-
No mining-related environmental damage
-
No ethical sourcing concerns
-
Slight differences in energy usage during production
Overall, both are eco-friendly diamond alternatives.
5. Longevity and Wear Life
Longevity matters most for engagement and daily-wear jewelry.
If long-term durability is important, moissanite is the better choice.
What Should You Buy: Cubic Zirconia vs Moissanite?
Buy cubic zirconia:
-
When budget is a limitation
-
For temporary fashion jewelry
-
If you want a temporary placeholder diamond
-
For children' s jewelry
-
For creating a prototype or sample
Buy moissanite:
-
When buying jewelry for long term
-
For engagement and heirloom jewelry
-
When budget is not a constraint
-
If you want a more durable stone
-
For gifting to a loved one
-
For daily wear jewelry
CZ vs Moissanite vs Diamond: Quick Decision Guide
|
Feature
|
CZ
|
Moissanite
|
Diamond
|
|
Durability
|
Low–Moderate
|
High
|
Very High
|
|
Price
|
Low
|
Medium
|
High
|
|
Longevity
|
Short-term
|
Long-term
|
Lifetime
|
|
Ethical Option
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Depends on source
|
Final Verdict: Cubic Zirconia vs Moissanite Diamonds
While moissanite diamonds offer superior durability, brilliance, and longevity, cubic zirconia still has its place for budget-friendly and temporary jewelry.
When comparing moissanite vs CZ vs diamonds, each option serves a different purpose. The right choice depends on usage, budget, and longevity expectations.
Explore Diamond Alternatives
If you’re looking for premium lab-grown options, explore Grown Diamond Corporation’s collection.
Find the other comparisons of lab grown diamonds
FAQs
Question: Is cubic zirconia better than moissanite?
Answer: Moissanite is generally considered better than CZ because of its durability, longevity, brilliance, and other factors.
Question: Can you tell the difference between moissanite diamonds vs CZ with the naked eye?
Answer: It is difficult to tell the difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia with the naked eye. However, moissanite may perform better and hence can be easy to tell apart.
Question: Which is more durable: moissanite vs CZ vs diamond?
Answer: The most durable between lab made diamonds, moissanite, and CZ is diamond, followed by moissanite.
Question: What looks better: CZ vs moissanite?
Answer: Moissanite offers better performance of brilliance, fire, and durability under different types of light compared to cubic zirconia.
Question: Is CZ the same as moissanite?
Answer: No, there are many differences between CZ and moissanite. They are made from different materials and have different properties.
Question: Is moissanite harder than CZ?
Answer: Yes, moissanite is 9.25 on Mohs hardness scale while CZ is 8-8.5. Moissanite is harder and more durable than CZ.
Question: Does CZ sparkle like moissanite?
Answer: No, moissanite has a higher refractive index of 2.65-2.69 than CZ of 2.25-2.18. Moissanite has more fire and brilliance and hence, sparkles more.
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Understanding the difference between cubic zirconia and moissanite can help you make an informed decision\u0026mdash;whether you\u0026rsquo;re shopping for fashion jewelry, engagement rings, or long-term heirloom pieces.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThis guide breaks down CZ vs moissanite using practical, buyer-focused criteria.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCZ vs Moissanite: Key Differences at a Glance\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ctable\u003e\r\n\t\u003ctbody\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComparison Factor\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCubic Zirconia (CZ)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMoissanite\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardness (Mohs Scale)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e8.0 \u0026ndash; 8.5\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e9.25 \u0026ndash; 9.5\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBrilliance \u0026amp; Fire\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eGood brilliance, moderate fire\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eExceptional brilliance and fire\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDensity\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e5.6 \u0026ndash; 6.0 g/cm\u0026sup3; (heavier)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e3.2 g/cm\u0026sup3; (lighter)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDurability Over Time\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMay scratch and turn cloudy\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eHighly durable, retains clarity\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eColor Stability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCan yellow over time\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eSlight yellow or gray tint possible\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBest Use Case\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFashion \u0026amp; budget jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eEngagement \u0026amp; heirloom jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/tbody\u003e\r\n\u003c/table\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhat Is Cubic Zirconia?\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCubic zirconia (CZ) is a diamond simulant made from zirconium dioxide. It is entirely man-made and designed to visually resemble diamonds at a much lower cost.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eKey Characteristics of CZ\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eDiamond-like appearance at first glance\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eAffordable and widely accessible\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eSimilar optical properties to diamonds\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eBest suited for fashion jewelry and short-term use\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eBecause of its low cost, cubic zirconia is commonly used for:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eTemporary jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCostumes and fashion accessories\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eChildren\u0026rsquo;s jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003ePrototype or sample designs\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhat Is Moissanite?\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMoissanite occurs naturally but is extremely rare. Nearly all moissanite used in jewelry today is lab-created, making it a sustainable and ethical diamond alternative.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhy Moissanite Is Popular\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eExceptional brilliance and fire (often more than diamonds)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eHigh durability and scratch resistance\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eSuitable for engagement rings and heirloom jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMaintains clarity over decades\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMoissanite\u0026rsquo;s optical performance is one of the main reasons it\u0026rsquo;s often chosen over CZ.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMoissanite vs Cubic Zirconia: Factors to Compare\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e1. Appearance and Sparkle\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCubic Zirconia\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eGood brilliance with moderate fire\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eSlightly glassy appearance over time\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eTypically colorless (D color equivalent)\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\t\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMoissanite\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eExceptional brilliance and dispersion\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eProduces a strong rainbow \u0026ldquo;disco ball\u0026rdquo; effect\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMay show a slight yellow or gray tint in some lighting\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e2. Hardness and Durability\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eHardness plays a major role in long-term wear.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCZ hardness: 8.0\u0026ndash;8.5 on the Mohs scale\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMoissanite hardness: 9.25\u0026ndash;9.5 on the Mohs scale\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\t\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCubic zirconia may\u003c/strong\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eScratch over time\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eLose clarity and appear cloudy\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\t\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMoissanite\u003c/strong\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eResists scratching and chipping\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eIs suitable for daily wear and engagement rings\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e3. Price Comparison\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCubic Zirconia\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eExtremely affordable\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eAllows buyers to choose larger stones at a low price\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eIdeal for budget-conscious shoppers\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\t\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMoissanite\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMore expensive than CZ\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eSignificantly cheaper than diamonds\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eOffers strong value for long-term jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch4 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/h4\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e4. Ethical and Environmental Considerations\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eBoth CZ and moissanite are lab grown, making them more ethical and sustainable than \u003ca href=\"https://www.growndiamondcorp.com/blog/difference-between-synthetic-and-mined-diamonds/\"\u003emined diamonds\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eNo mining-related environmental damage\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eNo ethical sourcing concerns\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eSlight differences in energy usage during production\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eOverall, both are eco-friendly diamond alternatives.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e5. Longevity and Wear Life\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eLongevity matters most for engagement and daily-wear jewelry.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCZ lifespan: Typically 2\u0026ndash;5 years with regular wear\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMoissanite lifespan: Several decades with proper care\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eIf long-term durability is important, moissanite is the better choice.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhat Should You Buy: Cubic Zirconia vs\u0026nbsp;Moissanite?\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBuy cubic zirconia\u003c/strong\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhen budget is a limitation\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFor temporary fashion jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eIf you want a temporary placeholder diamond\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFor children\u0026#39; s jewelry\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFor creating a prototype or sample\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBuy moissanite\u003c/strong\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhen buying jewelry for long term\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFor engagement and heirloom jewelry\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhen budget is not a constraint\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eIf you want a more durable stone\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFor gifting to a loved one\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFor daily wear jewelry\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\t\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eCZ vs Moissanite vs Diamond: Quick Decision Guide\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ctable\u003e\r\n\t\u003ctbody\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeature\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCZ\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMoissanite\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiamond\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDurability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eLow\u0026ndash;Moderate\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eHigh\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eVery High\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrice\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eLow\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eMedium\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eHigh\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLongevity\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eShort-term\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eLong-term\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eLifetime\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003ctr\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical Option\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003ctd\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eDepends on source\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\t\t\t\u003c/td\u003e\r\n\t\t\u003c/tr\u003e\r\n\t\u003c/tbody\u003e\r\n\u003c/table\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFinal Verdict: Cubic Zirconia vs Moissanite Diamonds\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhile moissanite diamonds offer superior durability, brilliance, and longevity, cubic zirconia still has its place for budget-friendly and temporary jewelry.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWhen comparing moissanite vs CZ vs diamonds, each option serves a different purpose. The right choice depends on usage, budget, and longevity expectations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch2 dir=\"ltr\"\u003eExplore Diamond Alternatives\u003c/h2\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eIf you\u0026rsquo;re looking for premium lab-grown options, \u003ca href=\"https://www.growndiamondcorp.com/register/\"\u003eexplore Grown Diamond Corporation\u0026rsquo;s collection\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFind the other comparisons of lab grown diamonds\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.growndiamondcorp.com/blog/man-made-diamonds-vs.-cubic-zirconia-what-is-the-difference/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#40e0d0\"\u003eWhat Is Difference Between CZ And Lab-Grown Diamonds\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.growndiamondcorp.com/blog/crystal-structure-differences-lab-grown-vs-natural-diamonds/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#40e0d0\"\u003eCrystal Structure Differences: Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.growndiamondcorp.com/blog/lab-grown-moissanite-vs-lab-grown-diamond-all-you-need-to-know/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#40e0d0\"\u003eLab-Grown Moissanite Vs. Lab-Grown Diamond: Key Differences And Factors to Consider While Buying\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.growndiamondcorp.com/blog/man-made-diamonds-vs.-cubic-zirconia-what-is-the-difference/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#40e0d0\"\u003eWhat Is Difference Between CZ And Lab-Grown Diamonds\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.growndiamondcorp.com/blog/lab-made-diamonds-vs-clarity-enhanced-diamonds/\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#40e0d0\"\u003eWhat is Clarity Enhanced Diamonds VS Lab-Made Diamonds\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003ch3 dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFAQs\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/h3\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion: Is cubic zirconia better than moissanite?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnswer: \u003c/strong\u003eMoissanite is generally considered better than CZ because of its durability, longevity, brilliance, and other factors.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion: Can you tell the difference between moissanite diamonds vs CZ with the naked eye?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnswer: \u003c/strong\u003eIt is difficult to tell the difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia with the naked eye. However, moissanite may perform better and hence can be easy to tell apart.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion: Which is more durable: moissanite vs CZ vs diamond?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnswer: \u003c/strong\u003eThe most durable between lab made diamonds, moissanite, and CZ is diamond, followed by moissanite.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion: What looks better: CZ vs moissanite?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnswer: \u003c/strong\u003eMoissanite offers better performance of brilliance, fire, and durability under different types of light compared to cubic zirconia.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion: Is CZ the same as moissanite?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnswer: \u003c/strong\u003eNo, there are many differences between CZ and moissanite. They are made from different materials and have different properties.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion: Is moissanite harder than CZ?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnswer: \u003c/strong\u003eYes, moissanite is 9.25 on Mohs hardness scale while CZ is 8-8.5. Moissanite is harder and more durable than CZ.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuestion:\u0026nbsp;Does CZ sparkle like moissanite?\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnswer: \u003c/strong\u003eNo, moissanite has a higher refractive index of 2.65-2.69 than CZ of 2.25-2.18. Moissanite has more fire and brilliance and hence, sparkles more.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n","FromDate":null,"ToDate":null,"Image_Url":"moissanite-vs-cubic-zirconia.png","Image_Alt":null,"KeyWords":null,"MetaDescription":"Apart from lab grown diamonds and mined diamonds, two common types are cubic zirconia and moissanite. In this blog lets understand the differences between cubic zirconia and moissanite diamonds.","MetaTitle":"Cubic Zirconia vs. Moissanite - Comparison and Buying Guide","CanonicalLink":null,"MetaContent":null,"SeqNo":null,"Slug":"moissanite-vs-cubic-zirconia","GetTitle":"cubic-zirconia-vs-moissanite-whats-the-difference-and-buying-guide","GetImageUrl":"https://docs.growndiamondcorp.com/blog/moissanite-vs-cubic-zirconia.png"}