When shopping for fine jewelry, one of the biggest questions is whether to choose cubic zirconia, moissanite, or diamonds. Each stone has its own beauty, durability, and price point. This guide will break down the differences so you can make the smartest choice for your lifestyle, budget, and values.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Cubic Zirconia (CZ) | Moissanite | Diamond |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | Lab-made zirconium dioxide | Lab-created silicon carbide (originally found in meteorites) | Natural or lab-grown carbon crystal |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8–8.5 | 9.25 | 10 |
| Sparkle | Bright but less complex | Very fiery, rainbow sparkle | Balanced brilliance & fire |
| Durability | Wears down faster | Very durable, close to diamond | Extremely durable |
| Price Range | $ | $$ | $$$–$$$$ |
| Everyday Wear | Best for fashion | Excellent for daily wear | Ideal for heirlooms & daily wear |
Cubic Zirconia (CZ)
-
Pros: Very affordable, widely available, sparkles brightly when new.
-
Cons: Prone to scratches and clouding over time. Not ideal for lifetime wear.
Best for: Trendy or occasional jewelry where budget is the main factor. If you’re shopping for fashion jewelry, explore Hermin’s Under $100 Collection.
Moissanite
-
Pros: Nearly as hard as diamond, long-lasting, eco-friendly (lab-grown), fiery brilliance.
-
Cons: Some prefer diamond’s subtle sparkle over moissanite’s rainbow fire.
Best for: Engagement rings and daily jewelry if you want diamond-level durability without the high cost. Pair your moissanite with timeless chains from our Necklaces Collection.
Diamonds
-
Pros: Classic brilliance, unmatched durability, cultural prestige.
-
Cons: High cost, especially for natural diamonds. Lab-grown are more affordable but still pricier than moissanite.
Best for: Timeless heirloom pieces, investment jewelry, or when cultural symbolism matters. Diamonds layer beautifully with gold — browse Hermin’s Gold Jewelry Collection.
Everyday Wear Recommendations
-
Budget-Friendly Everyday: Go with moissanite for a lifetime stone or CZ for temporary style.
-
Luxury Everyday: Choose lab-grown diamonds for the best balance of prestige and price.
-
Quiet Luxury Alternative: Moissanite is often indistinguishable from diamonds to the eye.
For styling inspiration, read our Everyday Necklace Guide.
FAQs
1. Is moissanite better than cubic zirconia?
Yes. Moissanite is harder, more durable, and keeps its sparkle far longer than CZ.
2. Can you tell the difference between moissanite and diamond?
To the naked eye, most people cannot. Jewelers can distinguish them with special tools.
3. Does cubic zirconia tarnish?
CZ doesn’t tarnish but it scratches and clouds, losing brilliance faster.
4. Which stone is best for an engagement ring?
Moissanite or diamond are ideal for daily wear and heirloom quality.
Internal Links
*This guide is written for jewelry shoppers in the United States looking for affordable diamond alternatives. Whether you’re searching in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, or online across the U.S., this comparison will help you choose wisely. Hermin delivers across the U.S., offering sterling silver and gold vermeil designs that pair perfectly with your choice of gemstones.
Leave a comment