When it comes to diamond alternatives, two names come up most often: moissanite and cubic zirconia (CZ). Both are beautiful, lab-created stones — but they're very different in terms of durability, brilliance, and long-term value. Here's what you need to know before you choose.
What Is Moissanite?
Moissanite was first discovered in a meteorite crater in 1893 by French chemist Henri Moissan. Today, all moissanite used in jewelry is lab-grown — making it an ethical, sustainable choice. It's composed of silicon carbide and is one of the hardest gemstones on earth, rating 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale.
What Is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia is a fully synthetic stone made from zirconium dioxide. It's been a popular diamond simulant since the 1970s and is widely used in fashion and costume jewelry. CZ rates 8–8.5 on the Mohs scale — durable enough for occasional wear, but more prone to scratching over time.
Brilliance & Fire
This is where moissanite truly shines — literally. Moissanite has a higher refractive index (2.65) than both diamond (2.42) and CZ, meaning it produces more light dispersion and rainbow fire. Some people love this; others prefer a more subdued sparkle. CZ has a lower refractive index and can appear glassy or flat, especially in lower-quality stones.
Durability & Longevity
Moissanite is built to last a lifetime. It resists scratching, chipping, and clouding — making it ideal for everyday fine jewelry like rings and bracelets. CZ, while initially brilliant, tends to cloud and scratch within 1–2 years of regular wear, dulling its appearance over time.
Price
CZ is significantly more affordable than moissanite, which makes it a great option for trend-driven or fashion pieces. Moissanite sits at a higher price point — but far below natural diamond — making it the go-to choice for those who want lasting luxury without the diamond price tag.
Which Should You Choose?
The answer depends on how and where you'll wear the piece:
- Choose Moissanite if you want a fine jewelry piece that lasts — engagement rings, stacking rings, pendants you'll wear daily.
- Choose CZ if you're looking for an affordable, fashion-forward piece for occasional wear.
At Tessories, we work with premium lab-grown stones set in sterling silver and vermeil — because we believe beautiful jewelry shouldn't cost the earth, literally or figuratively.
Explore our collection and find the piece that speaks to you.
