Many of the differences between diamonds and the cubic zirconia are not easily noticed, at least not unless you are trained in noting the differences. Consequently, to the untrained eye it is virtually impossible to note the difference between the two, which has resulted in the much cheaper cubic zirconia stones now being used in replacement of diamonds in jewelry, such as in gold CZ tennis bracelets or gold rings.

Perhaps the one most distinguishable factor between a diamond an a cubic zirconia is the dispersion, or the effect of light passing through the gem.  In other words cubic zirconia’s sparkle even more than a well cut diamond.

Another thing that is instantly noticed in gems that are the same size is that the cubic zirconia will be much heavier than a diamond of the same size, almost twice as heavy in fact. That may not be noticeable when looking at a very small sized gem, but by careful comparison and handling of the stone or piece of jewelry it could soon be noted.

One of the main things that comes to mind when comparing a cubic zirconia with a diamond is that the synthesized cubic zirconia is usually basically flawless. Most diamonds, however, have at least one flaw or defect, which usually stays with the shaped stone.

Another good way to distinguish diamonds from cubic zirconias is according to their color. Diamonds are rarely colorless, and even the most colorless still have a tinge of yellow or brown.  Cubic Zirconias, on the other hand, are typically colorless though they can be colored.  Normally though a diamond look-alike cubic zirconia will be pretty much totally colorless.

Even though these differences exist, for most people they really do not mean a lot, especially if the piece of jewelry being bought is to be used and not bought as an investment.  Synthesizing the process of making cubic zirconia stones has meant that diamond look-alike jewelry, such as cubic zirconia bracelets, is now readily available and affordable.

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