Comparing Diamond, Cultured Diamonds And Cubic Zirconia
Wednesday, March 10th, 2010There is often some confusion when looking for diamond jewelry because of the differences between natural diamonds, cultured diamonds, and cubic zirconia. There are some important differences between these choices that should be understood before looking for jewelry set with these gems. When choosing between cubic zirconia, cultured diamonds and natural diamonds, there are appearance and quality variations to consider, in addition to the cost variations between the three gem choices.
Diamond is a gem that naturally occurs as opposed to being man-made. Diamonds are mined from the earth, and are the hardest substance found in nature, being composed of a particular carbon atom formation. Many people prefer to buy diamond alternatives instead of natural diamonds because of the controversy surrounding natural diamond mining techniques. Cubic zirconia and cultured diamonds are less expensive than mined diamonds.
There are some differences between cubic zirconia and natural diamonds, although they often appear similar. Cubic zirconia is optically flawless because it is synthesized, and it is very hard. clear white.
Although not nearly as hard as mined or cultured diamonds, it is still quite durable and is a low cost alternative to mined diamonds.
Another alternative to real diamonds is the cultured diamond. Cultured diamonds, which are often called lab grown diamonds, are made to be optically, physically and chemically identical to naturally mined diamonds. Cultured diamonds generally cost less than natural diamonds, but they are still much more costly than cubic zirconia or diamond hybrid. Cultured diamonds can come in various colors, but the most popular color is brilliant colorless white.
One type of natural diamond alternative which has distinct advantages over the other choices is the diamond hybrid. A crystalline core is covered with a layer of diamond to make a diamond hybrid. This produces a very hard and brilliant gem that looks very similar to a mined diamond in regards to light dispersion and index refraction. These hybrid diamonds do not become discolored over time, and when cut by an expert and polished, are absolutely brilliant.
While hybrid diamonds are more expensive than cubic zirconia, they are less expensive than natural or traditional cultured diamonds. These beautiful gems are becoming quite popular as an alternative to mined diamonds for those who want the beauty and sparkle of a diamond without the high price.
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