Moissanite vs. Cubic Zirconia: The Shocking Differences You Didn’t Know

When shopping for a diamond alternative, two gemstones often come up: moissanite and cubic zirconia (CZ). While both offer a budget-friendly alternative to diamonds, they are worlds apart in quality, durability, and brilliance.

If you’ve ever wondered which gemstone is the better choice for your engagement ring, earrings, or necklace, this detailed comparison will help you make an informed decision. Read on to discover the shocking differences between moissanite and cubic zirconia that most people don’t know.

1. The Origins: Where Do They Come From?

Moissanite: A Rare, Lab-Created Wonder

💎 Moissanite was originally discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan in a meteor crater. Natural moissanite is extremely rare, so today, it is lab-created using advanced technology to replicate its stunning properties.

💎 Unlike diamonds, which are mined, moissanite is an ethical and conflict-free gemstone, making it a sustainable choice for modern buyers.

Cubic Zirconia: A Man-Made Diamond Simulant

💎 Cubic zirconia is entirely synthetic and was first developed in the 1970s as a cheap diamond alternative. Unlike moissanite, it does not occur naturally and is composed of zirconium dioxide.

💎 While CZ looks similar to diamonds at first, its inferior durability and brilliance make it a much lower-quality option.

2. Brilliance & Sparkle: Which One Shines More?

One of the most important factors when choosing a gemstone is its brilliance (how well it reflects white light) and fire (how it disperses colored light).

Moissanite: A Firework of Light

💎 Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65, meaning it reflects more light than both diamonds (2.42) and cubic zirconia (2.15).

💎 It also has 2.5 times more fire than a diamond, creating a mesmerizing rainbow effect under light.

💎 Moissanite retains its brilliance forever, making it a fantastic choice for engagement rings and fine jewellery.

Cubic Zirconia: The Dull Competitor

💎 Cubic zirconia may sparkle initially, but it has a lower refractive index (2.15), meaning its brilliance is noticeably weaker than moissanite.

💎 Over time, CZ becomes cloudy, reducing its ability to reflect light. This is one of the biggest downsides of choosing cubic zirconia jewellery over moissanite.

3. Hardness & Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?

When investing in fine jewellery, you want a gemstone that can withstand daily wear without scratching or losing its beauty.

Moissanite: Nearly as Hard as a Diamond

💎 On the Mohs hardness scale, moissanite ranks 9.25 out of 10, making it one of the hardest gemstones available.

💎 It is highly resistant to scratches, chips, and everyday wear, making it perfect for engagement rings and other jewellery meant to last a lifetime.

Cubic Zirconia: Scratches and Fades Easily

💎 CZ ranks only 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it significantly softer than moissanite.

💎 Over time, CZ scratches, chips, and loses its shine, requiring frequent replacements. This makes it a poor choice for long-term jewellery.

4. Price vs. Value: Is Cheaper Always Better?

Moissanite: Affordable Luxury

💎 Moissanite is much more affordable than diamonds, but it still offers exceptional quality, durability, and brilliance.

💎 Unlike CZ, which degrades over time, moissanite retains its value and beauty, making it a smart investment.

Cubic Zirconia: A Short-Term, Cheap Option

💎 CZ is the cheapest of all diamond simulants, but you get what you pay for.

💎 Since CZ scratches, becomes cloudy, and needs frequent replacements, it is ultimately more expensive in the long run.

5. Heat Resistance: Which Gemstone Can Withstand More?

Another shocking difference between moissanite and cubic zirconia is their heat resistance.

Moissanite: Highly Heat-Resistant

💎 Moissanite can withstand temperatures up to 2,000°F, making it extremely resistant to damage from heat exposure.

💎 This means that moissanite jewellery remains brilliant and strong even in extreme conditions.

Cubic Zirconia: Vulnerable to Heat Damage

💎 CZ is much less heat-resistant and can crack or become damaged under high temperatures.

💎 Even minor heat exposure, such as from jewellery repairs or everyday activities, can cause CZ to lose its luster.

6. Which One Should You Choose?

Moissanite is the Winner

✅ Brighter and more brilliant than CZ
✅ Extremely durable (9.25 on the Mohs scale)
✅ Never becomes cloudy or dull
✅ Ethically sourced and lab-created
✅ Great investment for fine jewellery

Cubic Zirconia is Only a Temporary Fix

❌ Scratches and wears out quickly
❌ Loses its sparkle and becomes cloudy
❌ Not suitable for long-term jewellery
❌ Low heat resistance

For those looking for a beautiful, long-lasting, and high-quality diamond alternative, moissanite is the clear winner. It outperforms cubic zirconia in every category, making it the best choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and everyday jewellery.

Final Thoughts: Moissanite vs. Cubic Zirconia – Which One is Right for You?

If you’re looking for a stunning, durable, and affordable diamond alternative, moissanite is undoubtedly the best choice. Unlike cubic zirconia, which loses its sparkle, scratches easily, and wears out quickly, moissanite remains brilliant and strong for a lifetime.

Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, earrings, or a beautiful statement piece, choosing moissanite means you’ll never have to compromise on quality or beauty.

💎 Ready to experience the brilliance of moissanite? Explore our exquisite collection of high-quality moissanite jewellery today! ✨