If you've been researching jewellery, you've likely come across both moissanite and cubic zirconia. At first glance, they can appear quite similar — both are colourless stones that offer sparkle without the price tag of a diamond.
However, while they may look alike initially, moissanite and cubic zirconia are very different gemstones when it comes to durability, brilliance, and long-term wear.
If you're deciding between the two, here's what you need to know.
What is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia (often abbreviated to CZ) is a lab-created gemstone developed as an affordable diamond alternative.
For decades, cubic zirconia has been widely used in fashion jewellery because it offers a diamond-like appearance at a very accessible price point.
When new, cubic zirconia can look bright and attractive, making it a popular choice for occasional wear and trend-driven pieces.
What is Moissanite?
Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone originally inspired by particles discovered by French scientist Henri Moissan.
Today, jewellery-grade moissanite is grown in laboratories, allowing it to be produced ethically while maintaining exceptional quality.
Moissanite has become increasingly popular as a premium alternative to diamonds thanks to its remarkable brilliance, durability, and long-lasting beauty.
Which Sparkles More?
Both stones sparkle, but they do so differently.
Cubic zirconia produces a bright white sparkle that can appear attractive when new. Moissanite, however, reflects light more intensely and produces greater brilliance and fire. This means you'll often notice flashes of colour and a more vibrant sparkle, particularly in natural sunlight.
Many people are surprised to learn that moissanite actually displays more brilliance than a diamond!
Durability for Everyday Wear
Durability is where one of the biggest differences becomes apparent.
On the Mohs Hardness Scale:
- Diamond: 10/10
- Moissanite: 9.25/10
- Cubic Zirconia: 8–8.5/10
While cubic zirconia is reasonably durable, it is softer than moissanite and more susceptible to scratches from daily wear.
Moissanite's exceptional hardness makes it an excellent choice for jewellery designed to be worn regularly.
Will Cubic Zirconia Become Cloudy?
One of the most common questions people ask is whether cubic zirconia becomes cloudy over time.
The answer is that cubic zirconia itself does not technically turn cloudy, but because it is softer than moissanite, it can accumulate tiny surface scratches through normal wear.
These scratches can reduce its brilliance and make the stone appear less bright than when it was new.
Moissanite is significantly more resistant to scratching, helping it maintain its sparkle and clarity for many years.
Appearance
To the untrained eye, both stones can look similar at first glance.
However, moissanite generally appears more lively and reflective due to its superior light performance.
As time passes, the difference often becomes more noticeable because moissanite tends to retain its brilliance while cubic zirconia can show signs of wear.
Price Comparison
Cubic zirconia is typically the more affordable option.
Moissanite costs more than cubic zirconia but considerably less than a natural diamond.
For many buyers, moissanite offers an attractive middle ground — delivering premium appearance and durability without the cost associated with diamonds.
Which Stone Should You Choose?
I can’t answer what you should decide on, however… Choose cubic zirconia if:
- Budget is your primary concern.
- You're purchasing fashion jewellery.
- The piece is intended for occasional wear.
Choose moissanite if:
- You want exceptional sparkle.
- You wear your jewellery regularly.
- Long-term durability matters to you.
- You are looking for a premium stone without diamond pricing.
Final Thoughts
Both moissanite and cubic zirconia have their place in jewellery.
Cubic zirconia remains a popular and affordable option for fashion pieces, while moissanite offers superior durability, brilliance, and longevity for those seeking a stone that can be enjoyed for years to come.
At ADEL, we appreciate jewellery that is designed to be worn often, not saved for special occasions. For everyday wear, moissanite's durability and lasting sparkle make it a beautiful choice for modern jewellery collections.
Looking for everyday moissanite jewellery? Explore the ADEL collection and discover pieces designed to be worn, not stored.
