Differences between diamonds, moissanite, cubic zirconia, zircon and rhinestones

1.  Diamond

• Natural or Lab-Grown: Can be mined (natural) or created in a lab (lab-grown).

• Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale (hardest material known).

• Brilliance: High brilliance with strong white light reflection (“fire”).

• Durability: Extremely durable, scratch-resistant, and suitable for daily wear.

• Cost: Most expensive of all these options.

2. Moissanite

• Natural or Lab-Grown: Rare in nature; almost always lab-created.

• Hardness: 9.25 on the Mohs scale (second hardest gemstone).

• Brilliance: Higher dispersion than diamonds, meaning more rainbow-like flashes.

• Durability: Very durable, resistant to scratching and chipping.

• Cost: Much cheaper than diamonds but more expensive than cubic zirconia.

3. Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

• Natural or Lab-Grown: Always lab-created.

• Hardness: 8–8.5 on the Mohs scale.

• Brilliance: Has strong brilliance but less than moissanite and can appear glassy over time.

• Durability: Less durable than diamonds and moissanite; scratches more easily.

• Cost: Very inexpensive.

4. Zircon

• Natural or Lab-Grown: A natural gemstone.

• Hardness: 6–7.5 on the Mohs scale.

• Brilliance: High brilliance and fire, often mistaken for diamonds.

• Durability: Brittle and prone to chipping.

• Cost: Affordable but more expensive than cubic zirconia.

5. Rhinestones

• Natural or Lab-Grown: Usually glass, acrylic, or lead crystal.

• Hardness: 3–5 on the Mohs scale (very soft).

• Brilliance: Reflective but lacks the fire and depth of real gemstones.

• Durability: Easily scratched and not meant for long-term wear.

• Cost: Very cheap.

Summary

• Best for Durability & Value: Moissanite (if diamond is too expensive).

• Best for Affordability: Cubic zirconia (looks good but less durable).

• Best Natural Diamond Alternative: Zircon (but more fragile).

• Best for Costume Jewelry: Rhinestones (cheap and flashy).