Moissanite vs cubic zirconia jewellery sparkle comparison photo with neutral styling

Cubic Zirconia vs Moissanite: What’s the Difference — and Which One Is Right for You?

Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia: Which Diamond Alternative Is Right for You?

If you're searching for ethical and affordable diamond alternatives, you've probably come across the debate of moissanite vs cubic zirconia. These two lab-created gemstones are both sparkly and budget-friendly, but the similarities stop there. When it comes to longevity, brilliance, and emotional value, they offer very different experiences.

So how do you choose between them?

In this guide, we break down the real differences comparing moissanite vs cubic zirconia—beyond just appearance. Whether you're shopping for an engagement ring, a gift, or a piece of everyday jewellery, knowing the strengths of each stone will help you make a confident, lasting choice.

What Is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a lab-grown gemstone that was originally discovered in a meteorite crater by French scientist Henri Moissan in 1893. Today, it’s engineered to perfection in laboratories, making it one of the most ethical and sustainable diamond alternatives on the market.

Why Choose Moissanite?

  • Exceptional Brilliance: With a refractive index of 2.65 and a dispersion rate of 0.104, moissanite sparkles even more intensely than a diamond, displaying bold rainbow flashes known as “fire.”

  • Durability for Daily Wear: Moissanite ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest substances used in jewellery —second only to diamonds. It's resistant to scratches, chips, and clouding over time.

  • Sustainability: Because it’s entirely lab-grown, moissanite doesn’t contribute to mining-related environmental or ethical issues. It’s a responsible choice for eco-conscious consumers.

  • Timeless Meaning: Often chosen for engagement rings and keepsakes, moissanite carries emotional value. It symbolizes endurance, clarity, and commitment—perfect for jewellery meant to last.

Explore our Moissanite Collection designed for elegance, intention, and everyday beauty.

What Is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone made from zirconium dioxide. It was first introduced to the jewellery market in the 1970s as a diamond simulant and remains popular due to its affordability and versatility.

Why Choose Cubic Zirconia?

  • Budget-Friendly Sparkle: CZ offers an accessible way to enjoy the look of a diamond at a fraction of the cost. It’s ideal for casual jewellery, fashion-forward pieces, or one-time events.

  • Customizable Appearance: One of the strengths of cubic zirconia is its availability in a wide range of fancy colours—from canary yellow and pink to deep blue and green. This makes it ideal for creative and colorful statement jewellery.

  • Polished and Clear Look (At First): Freshly cut CZ mimics the look of a high-grade diamond. However, over time, it may lose its clarity, becoming cloudy or scratched with regular wear.

  • Easy Replacement: Because CZ is inexpensive, replacing worn-out pieces is simple and budget-friendly.

Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia: Side-by-Side Comparison

When comparing moissanite vs cubic zirconia, it helps to understand how they differ in key categories.

1. Sparkle & Brilliance

  • Moissanite has a higher brilliance due to its greater refractive index. It emits colorful flashes in light, sometimes even more dramatically than diamonds.

  • Cubic Zirconia gives off a whiter, softer sparkle. Over time, it can appear glassy or dull, especially with daily wear.

2. Durability

  • Moissanite: Rated 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale, it’s extremely scratch-resistant and suitable for everyday rings or bracelets.

  • Cubic Zirconia: With a rating of 8 to 8.5, CZ is more susceptible to scratching, chipping, and surface wear.

According to GIA, stones above 9 on the Mohs scale are considered ideal for regular wear — another reason why moissanite lasts longer.

3. Aesthetic Longevity

  • Moissanite maintains its clarity and sparkle over the years without clouding or yellowing.

  • CZ may become dull, especially if exposed to skin oils, soaps, or hard water.

4. Color Options

  • CZ excels in variety. Available in a rainbow of fancy colours, it’s perfect for bold fashion jewellery themed gifts, and trend-driven designs.

  • Moissanite is typically colourless or near-colourless, offering a classic, diamond-like appearance. Some moissanites do come in soft hues like grey or yellow, but they’re rarer.

5. Cost vs. Value

  • Cubic Zirconia is much cheaper upfront, making it perfect for occasional or costume jewellery.

  • Moissanite has a higher initial cost but delivers long-term value—ideal for meaningful, lasting pieces like engagement rings or anniversary gifts.

Environmental and Ethical Impact

Both moissanite and cubic zirconia are lab-created, meaning they avoid the destructive practices of traditional diamond mining. However, moissanite wins in terms of sustainability over time, thanks to its durability. Fewer replacements mean less waste and a smaller overall carbon footprint.

When to Choose Moissanite

Choose moissanite if you want:

  • A durable gem for daily wear or active lifestyles

  • A meaningful engagement or wedding ring

  • Ethical, eco-conscious jewellery that lasts decades

  • Timeless sparkle that stays brilliant for years

Top Picks from Our Moissanite Collection:

When to Choose Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia might be right if you:

  • Want a low-cost option for special occasions or travel

  • Enjoy bold styles in fancy colours and trend-forward settings

  • Don’t mind replacing pieces after some wear

  • Need something fun for costumes, parties, or short-term looks

Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia: Final Thoughts

At first glance, moissanite vs cubic zirconia may seem like a toss-up—both are affordable, lab-grown diamond alternatives. But in reality, they serve very different purposes.

  • Choose moissanite for commitment, clarity, and long-term beauty.

  • Choose cubic zirconia for color, creativity, and short-term sparkle.

At DAPR, we design every piece with moissanite because we believe jewelry should last, mean something, and shine long after the moment passes.

Explore Jewelry That Lasts

Discover DAPR's moissanite jewellery collection — made with sustainability, intention, and everyday elegance in mind. Whether you're celebrating a milestone or choosing a daily favorite, find pieces built to tell your story.

FAQs

1. Is moissanite better than cubic zirconia?
Yes, moissanite is more durable, maintains its sparkle over time, and offers better long-term value. It’s ideal for engagement rings and keepsakes.

2. Can you tell the difference between moissanite vs CZ?
Yes. Moissanite has more fire (rainbow flashes) and brilliance, while CZ tends to have a glassier, flatter appearance—especially as it ages.

3. Which is more eco-friendly: moissanite or cubic zirconia?
Both are lab-created, but moissanite is more sustainable due to its longevity. Fewer replacements mean less environmental impact.

4. Will moissanite get cloudy like CZ over time?
No. Moissanite remains clear and sparkling for decades, unlike CZ, which can become cloudy or scratched with regular wear.

5. Why is moissanite more expensive than cubic zirconia?
Moissanite has superior optical properties, is harder, lasts longer, and requires more advanced manufacturing—justifying its higher price point.

6. Can moissanite be used in engagement rings?
Absolutely. Many couples choose moissanite for its sparkle, strength, and ethical appeal. It's a popular diamond alternative in fine jewellery.

7. How do you clean and care for moissanite vs CZ?
Clean both with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Moissanite requires less maintenance, while CZ may need more frequent polishing to restore shine.

 

Back to blog