We are an affiliate
We hope you love the featured products! Just so you know, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page, at no extra cost for the buyer. Thank you if you use our links, we really appreciate it!
Cubic zirconia can scratch glass and cut it depending on its thickness.
CZ has a 8 rating on the Mohs scale of hardness versus glass’s 5 to 6 rating.
Consequently, as cubic zirconia is harder than glass it can scratch it just like a diamond.
What is Cubic Zirconia?
The crystal structure of cubic zirconia is composed of zirconium dioxide, while diamond consists of carbon atoms.
Although it is seldom found naturally in the Earth’s crust, scientists have successfully devised techniques to synthesize it in laboratories.
Consequently, we can now create flawless cubic zirconia gems with absolute precision under controlled conditions, ensuring they are devoid of any imperfections or impurities.
CZ is often used as a substitute for diamonds in jewelry because of its similarities in appearance.
However, one major difference between these two gemstones is their hardness.
Can Cubic Zirconia Scratch Glass?
Just like temperature is measured in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit, the hardness of a stone is measured on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Diamonds are the hardest with a score of 10, while cubic zirconia has a score of 8.
This means that cubic zirconia can scratch glass, while diamond can scratch glass and cubic zirconia, as it is harder than both.
If you were to use a cubic zirconia stone to try and cut glass, it would be hard enough to create a scratch or even cut depending on how thick it is.
Will Cubic Zirconia Turn Green?
Another concern that people often have about cubic zirconia is whether or not it will turn green over time.
This is a common misconception.
Cubic zirconia is a stable material and does not change color.
It is formed of zirconium dioxide crystals in a stable structure.
It is not a metal like brass or sterling silver: cubic zirconia does not tarnish.
It will maintain its clarity and shine for a long time, making it a great jewelry choice for its price.
How Long Does Cubic Zirconia Last?
Cubic zirconia is a durable gemstone that can last for a long time if taken care of properly.
It is expected to remain shiny for about 3 years going onwards to 5.
With daily wear and tear, it will gather scratches and get a bit cloudy.
It is not as hard as a diamond, but with proper maintenance, it can retain its beauty for many years.
Regular cleaning and avoiding harsh chemicals can help to extend the lifespan of cubic zirconia jewelry.
Can Cubic Zirconia Get Wet?
Unlike some other gemstones, cubic zirconia can get wet without any issues.
It is not affected by water or moisture, which adds to its convenience and versatility.
Yet, the chemicals dissolved in the water may be harmful.
You should avoid cleaning products and abrasives to protect your cz pieces.
Cubic Zirconia vs Diamond
1. Weight
While both cubic zirconia and diamonds are valued for their brilliance and sparkle, they have different properties.
The density of cubic zirconia is significantly higher than that of a diamond.
It has a density around 5.8 grams per cubic centimeter, whereas diamond’s density is about 3.5 .
Thus, a cubic zirconia stone will weigh about 1.65 times of a diamond weight of the same size.
2. Hardness
The hardness of a gemstone is an important factor to when considering its durability.
Diamonds are the hardest natural substance, ranking 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, has a hardness of 8.
While it is still a relatively hard material, it is not as durable as a diamond.
This means that diamond can scratch and cut cz stones.
3. Shine and Fire
When it comes to optical properties, diamonds have lower dispersion index and higher refractive index compared to cubic zirconia.
This means that diamond has better light refraction, resulting in a higher level of brilliance.
When we look at fire, cz is better.
Fire is the name given to the rainbow like colorful patterns a gem creates.
The surfaces of the gemstone act as a prism and separates different wavelengths which have different colors.
While diamond is the hardest gem, there are other ones that shows more fire like moissanite, another popular diamond simulant.
4. Price
Price is where cubic zirconia outshines diamond by a big margin.
CZ engagement rings come with a much more approachable price tag than diamond rings.
Diamonds, especially those that are natural and flawless, tend to command much higher prices.
For couples who do not want to spend the wedding budget on ring, cubic zirconia rings are worth consideration!