Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia

Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia

At first glance Moissanite resembles a diamond and might be easily mistaken for a diamond, a synthetic (lab grown) diamond or diamond simulant (C/Z). When looking at Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia or C/Z (perhaps the world's most popular diamond simulant), the differences in Moissanite are obvious.

Cubic Zirconia is known as an inexpensive simulated diamond look-alike, inferior in almost every gemological property to Moissanite and diamonds. Cubic Zirconias are mass produced under a myriad of trade names and promoted with various brand names, while Moissanite is superior in appearance, with an unfading beauty and durability.

Moissanite is Harder than Cubic Zirconia - 219% less likely to scratch

Moissanite is Tougher than Cubic Zirconia - 317% less likely to chip

Moissanite has Superior Visual Properties - 25% more brilliant than a CZ

Moissanite has a Higher Refractive Index - 58% more fire  & luster

Moissanite is better Resistant to Dirt - Requires substantially less cleaning

Moissanite is Stable and Durable - Will no shatter or change colour

When looking at Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia, what can be concluded is that in the end, C/Z is great for cheap fashion jewellery, but is simply too soft for jewellery if you intend to wear it frequently (i.e. bridal jewellery), it has too strong an affinity to dirt, and its optical properties (luster, fire and brilliance) all fall short when compared to a Moissanite.

Unlike Moissanite and diamond, C/Z will probably not stand the test of time.