Moissanite vs. Cubic Zirconia: Which is the Better Choice

When it comes to choosing an alternative to a diamond for jewelry, two of the most popular options are moissanite and cubic zirconia. Both of these gems have their pros and cons, and it can be difficult to determine which is the better choice for you. In this article, we'll take a closer look at moissanite and cubic zirconia and compare them to help you make an informed decision.

What is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a naturally occurring gemstone that was discovered in 1893 by a French scientist named Henri Moissan. It's composed of silicon carbide and has a chemical formula of SiC. Moissanite is extremely rare in nature, but it can be made in a laboratory. Lab-created moissanite has the same chemical and physical properties as natural moissanite, but it's much more affordable.

Moissanite has a high refractive index and is very sparkly, which is why it's often used as an alternative to diamond in jewelry. It's also harder than cubic zirconia and has a higher heat tolerance, making it more durable.

What is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia is a lab-created gemstone that was first produced in 1976. It's made of zirconium dioxide and is often used as a cheaper alternative to diamonds in jewelry. Cubic zirconia has a lower refractive index than moissanite, which means it doesn't sparkle as much. It's also softer than moissanite and has a lower heat tolerance, making it less durable.

Moissanite vs. Cubic Zirconia: A Comparison

Price: Cubic zirconia is generally much cheaper than moissanite. This is because it's easier to produce and is much more widely available. However, lab-created moissanite is still more affordable than natural diamonds, so it's a good choice for those looking for an affordable alternative.

Durability: Moissanite is harder and more heat-resistant than cubic zirconia, which makes it more durable in the long run. Cubic zirconia is more likely to scratch, chip or become cloudy over time, while moissanite maintains its sparkle and shine.

Brilliance: Moissanite has a higher refractive index than cubic zirconia, which means it has more sparkle and brilliance. This is why moissanite is often considered the better alternative to diamond, as it has a similar sparkle and fire.

Color: Both moissanite and cubic zirconia are available in a range of colors, but moissanite tends to have a slight yellow or green tint to it. Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, can be produced in a wide range of colors without any tint.

Which is the Better Choice?

Both moissanite and cubic zirconia have their pros and cons, and ultimately the better choice will depend on your personal preferences and budget. If you're looking for a cheaper alternative to diamond and aren't too concerned about durability, then cubic zirconia is a good option. However, if you want a more durable and long-lasting gemstone with a similar sparkle to diamond, then moissanite is the better choice.

At Momentwish Jewelry, we offer a wide range of moissanite jewelry, including women moissanite rings and sterling silver moissanite rings. Our jewelry is made with high-quality lab-created moissanite and is designed to last a lifetime. Visit our website to explore our collection and find the perfect piece of jewelry for you.