Moissanite and cubic zirconia (CZ) are both popular diamond alternatives, but they have distinct differences in terms of their chemical composition, hardness, brilliance, and overall appearance. Here's a comparison between moissanite and cubic zirconia:
Chemical Composition:
Moissanite: Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral, specifically silicon carbide, which is then synthesized for use in jewelry. It is a very hard and durable gemstone.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ): Cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone made from zirconium dioxide. It is softer than moissanite and has a different chemical composition.
Hardness:
Moissanite: Moissanite is one of the hardest known minerals, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it suitable for everyday wear and less prone to scratching or damage.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ): CZ is softer, with a hardness of about 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale. While it is still durable, it can be more prone to scratches over time compared to moissanite.
Brilliance:
Moissanite: Moissanite has a high refractive index, which results in a high level of brilliance and sparkle. It can display colorful flashes of light, known as fire.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ): CZ is also known for its brilliance and sparkle, but it may not have the same fire as moissanite. Some people find that moissanite has a more diamond-like appearance.
Durability:
Moissanite: Due to its hardness, moissanite is quite durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ): While CZ is durable, its softer nature makes it more susceptible to scratches and wear over time.
Cost:
Moissanite: Moissanite is generally more expensive than cubic zirconia, but still more affordable than diamonds.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ): CZ is often the more budget-friendly option.
Ultimately, the choice between moissanite and cubic zirconia depends on personal preferences, budget, and the desired characteristics in an alternative gemstone. Moissanite is often favored for its durability and brilliance, while cubic zirconia is chosen for its affordability.