When you are looking for a beautiful and affordable gemstone, you may be wondering whether to choose moissanite or cubic zirconia. Both of these stones have their pros and cons, but which one is the best choice for you?
In this article, we will compare moissanite vs. cubic zirconia in terms of pricing, durability, and appearance. By the end of this article, you should be able to make an informed decision about which stone is right for you!
The History of Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia
When most people think of diamond simulants, the first two gemstones that come to mind are moissanite and cubic zirconia. But what many people don’t know is that these two gems have a long and complicated history. Let’s take a closer look at the origins of moissanite and cubic zirconia, and how they came to be some of the most popular diamond simulants on the market today.
Moissanite was first discovered in 1893 by Dr. Henri Moissan, a French chemist who was investigating a meteor crater in Arizona. Among the debris he found tiny crystals that were later identified as silicon carbide. It wasn’t until 1905 that moissanite was successfully synthesized in a laboratory, and it wasn’t until the late 1990s that moissanite began to be used as a diamond simulant.
Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, has been around since the 1930s. It was first synthesized by German mineralogist Karl Auer von Welsbach, who was looking for a material to use in gas mantles. In 1937, Czechoslovakian chemist Irene Bekenstein successfully created a synthetic form of cubic zirconia that could be used as a gemstone.
What’s the Difference Between Two Stones?
So, what’s the difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia? Both gems have their own unique characteristics that set them apart from each other. Here’s a closer look at each one.
Appearance – the Biggest Difference
The most obvious difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia is their appearance. Moissanite is often described as having a “fire” that is more brilliant than a diamond. It also has less of a yellow tint than cubic zirconia, making it closer to colorless. Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is less brilliant than moissanite and diamond. It also has a more intense yellow color.
Hardness – Another Key Difference
In terms of hardness, both moissanite and cubic zirconia are harder than diamonds. However, moissanite is slightly harder than cubic zirconia. This is an important difference because it means that moissanite is more resistant to scratches and other damage.
Cost – Which Stone is More Expensive?
Cubic zirconia is less expensive than moissanite. However, keep in mind that the price of both stones can vary depending on the size and quality of the stone.
Where to Buy Moissanite or Cubic Zirconia Jewelry
If you’re interested in buying moissanite or cubic zirconia jewelry, there are a few places you can look. Many online retailers sell both types of stones, and you can also find them at some brick-and-mortar jewelry stores.
When it comes to choosing between moissanite and cubic zirconia, it’s important to consider your budget, personal preferences, and what you plan to use the stone for. If you’re looking for a beautiful, durable stone that won’t break the bank, moissanite is a great option. If you want a stone that looks similar to a diamond but is more affordable, cubic zirconia may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you’re looking for in a piece of jewelry.
How to Care for Moissanite or Cubic Zirconia Jewelry?
Proper care is important for preserving the beauty of any type of jewelry, but it’s especially important for moissanite and cubic zirconia. These stones are more brittle than diamonds, so they’re more susceptible to chipping and breaking.
To clean your moissanite or cubic zirconia jewelry, simply use a mild soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they can damage the stone. You should also avoid exposing your jewelry to extreme heat, as this can cause it to lose its brilliance.
When storing your moissanite or cubic zirconia jewelry, be sure to keep it in a soft, padded pouch or box. This will help protect the stone from being scratched or damaged.
Conclusion
So, what’s the difference between moissanite vs. cubic zirconia?
Cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone that is made to look like a diamond. It is less expensive than diamonds and available in a variety of colors.
Moissanite is also a synthetic gemstone, but it was first created to resemble an emerald. Moissanite is more expensive than cubic zirconia, but it has more sparkle and fire than cubic zirconia.
Both moissanite and cubic zirconia are durable stones that can be worn every day. Cubic zirconia may scratch more easily than moissanite.
If you are looking for an affordable alternative to diamonds, cubic zirconia is the better option. If you want a stone with more sparkle, choose moissanite.
