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How to Spot the Differences: Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Diamond Stimulates (Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia)?


Many consumers confuse lab-grown diamonds with diamond simulants. Diamond simulants look similar to diamonds but lack their chemical composition and durability. The most common simulants are Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia (CZ), both of which offer budget-friendly alternatives but differ significantly from real diamonds.


Upon first glace all three may appear similar. But they are vastly different in terms of composition, value, and performance. Let’s break down the key differences so you can make an informed choice.



Lab-Grown Diamonds: The Real Deal

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. They exhibit the same fire, scintillation, and sparkle, making them virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye. Each lab-grown diamond is unique, as they are grown rather than manufactured, resulting in slight natural variations.


  • Origin: Created in a lab using CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) or HPHT (High-Pressure High-Temperature) methods.

  • Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale—just as durable as mined diamonds.

  • Brilliance: Identical to natural diamonds, with exceptional fire and scintillation.

  • Price: Typically 30-50% less than mined diamonds, but lower-quality lab diamonds can be up to 90% cheaper due to higher supply.

  • Certification: Certified by IGI, GIA, and other reputable gemological labs to ensure quality and authenticity.


Moissanite: Brilliant Alternative

  • Origin: Mostly lab-created. While natural Moissanite exists, it is extremely rare.

  • Hardness: 9.25 on the Mohs scale (2.66x softer than diamonds), meaning it can scratch and wear down over time.

  • Brilliance: Exhibits a different kind of sparkle, often with rainbow-colored flashes instead of a diamond’s white-light brilliance.

  • Price: About 1/3 the cost of a lab-grown diamond.

  • Certification: No certification from recognized labs. Some are “certified” by GRA, which lacks industry recognition.


Cubic Zirconia (CZ): Cheap Alternative

  • Origin: Always lab-created.

  • Hardness: 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, significantly softer than diamonds and Moissanite. Prone to scratching and clouding over time.

  • Brilliance: Tends to appear overly flawless and glassy, lacking the depth of a real diamond.

  • Price: About 1/100th the price of a lab-grown diamond.

  • Certification: No certification from recognized labs.


How to Tell the Difference?

While Moissanite, CZ, and lab-grown diamonds may look alike at a glance, here are some ways to distinguish them:

Feature

Lab-Grown Diamond

Moissanite

Cubic Zirconia

Hardness (Mohs)

10

9.25

8-8.5

Brilliance

White light

Rainbow-like

Glassy

Durability

High

Medium

Low

Certification

IGI, GIA

None (GRA)

None

Price

$$$

$$

$


MIYAVI: Your Destination for High-Quality Lab-Grown Diamonds

At MIYAVI, we specialize in premium lab-grown diamonds - D-E colored diamonds, ensuring each piece meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and certification. Our diamonds are not just beautiful; they are ethical, sustainable, and designed to last a lifetime. With lab-grown diamonds, you get the best of both worlds—luxury and value.

Explore MIYAVI’s collection today and discover how you can own a brilliant, responsibly sourced diamond that truly stands out!

 
 
 

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