Cubic Zirconia over Real & Lab Diamonds

If you are looking for the perfect jewellery for a special occasion or gift – most people head straight for diamonds. The traditional solitaire engagement ring, the tennis bracelet for a 21st birthday or solitaire studs for a 30th birthday or an anniversary but there are other options now – both lab grown diamonds and cubic zirconia offer an alternative.

Lab grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular in the world of jewellery. These are synthetic diamonds which have a similar appearance to real diamonds but are created in a lab rather than being mined from the Earth.

I thought I’d explore the differences between all three and show why cubic zirconia jewellery is the best choice for those of us who aren’t millionaires.

What Are Real Diamonds?

Real or natural diamonds are created when carbon is subjected to intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust, over millions of years. They are formed in the upper mantle of the earth and then brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions. They have been sought after for their rarity and beauty for centuries. Natural diamonds come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours, and are graded by their four Cs – Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat.

Real diamonds are generally considered the most valuable and expensive gemstones available. There also seems to be a real status about owning diamonds – the bigger the better. Their hard, sparkling surface and durability make them highly valued in the jewellery market. As such, they are often used in engagement rings, wedding rings and other classic pieces of jewellery that are meant to last a lifetime.

However, with rising demand for diamonds and the increasing cost, people are turning to other options that are more affordable - such as lab grown diamonds.

What are Lab Diamonds?

Lab diamonds are created using high pressure and high temperatures replicating the natural process when natural diamonds are formed in the Earth. These lab diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as a real diamond, but they are made in a fraction of the time and at a lower cost. (They are typically half the price of real diamonds if you buy in a shop) I still have to ask though – why would you pay a small fortune (smaller than a real diamond I know) for what is still a man-made stone – when cubic zirconia offers a truly affordable option?

Another thing to consider is that lab grown diamonds are unlikely to keep their value over time. And with more and more stones being produced they will never have the same rarity, uniqueness and meaning as a natural stone that was formed over billions of years deep in the earth. They will become just another commodity.

What is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia is a man-made gemstone that is often used as an alternative to diamonds and is created using a combination of zirconium oxide and other minerals resulting in a stone that is almost identical in appearance to a diamond or lab diamond but at a fraction of the price.

So Why Choose Cubic Zirconia Jewellery?

Cost /Affordability

One of the biggest advantages of cubic zirconia jewellery is the cost. Cubic zirconia is much less expensive that real or lab grown diamonds, making it an achievable option to those who want the look and sparkle of a diamond but without the high price tag. An added bonus is that because it is more affordable you don’t have to limit yourself to one ring either – you can keep adding to your jewellery box with out breaking the bank.

Once only accessible to the upper classes of society, diamond jewellery is no longer the only option when looking for a ring that features a luxury stone. Cubic zirconia rings, offer an affordable alternative that lets everyone benefit from the beauty of stones. We have a lovely selection of engagement rings from simple solitaires to a stunning ring with three stones which is aptly named ‘Looks like Diamonds’.

As a leading online retailer of handmade silver and cubic zirconia jewellery, Cavendish French offers a wide range of cubic zirconia jewellery for a fraction of the cost of diamond jewellery. With a range of styles, from classic cuts to more ornate designs, our selection allows anyone to look elegant and stylish without taking out a loan. Our range is beautifully handmade using the best quality AAA* stones, and rhodium plated to prevent tarnishing and scratching – it is designed to last, meaning you can enjoy your cubic zirconia rings, earrings, necklaces and pendants for years to come.

Durability

Cubic zirconia is a very durable and hard stone making it perfect for everyday wear. Diamonds can chip or crack, but cubic zirconia is much harder and less likely to be damaged. So, you can wear all day every day without worrying. 

Appearance

While lab diamonds do have a very similar appearance to diamonds, there are still subtle differences that can be detected by the trained eye – so why would you pay for something that isn’t the ‘real thing’ when cubic zirconia is also very similar to diamond and can be virtually indistinguishable to the untrained eye!

Fashion and Style

Additionally cubic zirconia comes in a range of colours which can replicate other fine gems. We have a wonderful collection of coloured cubic zirconia jewellery including ruby red, emerald green, citrine yellow and aquamarine. All beautiful natural colours which can add a unique touch to your jewellery collection – also perfect for bridesmaids, affordable anniversary gifts (ruby for 40) and birthday presents.

I’ve picked a couple of designs from the colours which are customer favourites – but please take a look at our full colour cubic zirconia collections which have so many natural colours to choose from.  In the ruby red you can’t go wrong with our simple solitaire stud earrings or a fabulous vintage style cocktail ring. Emerald is one of the most popular colours at the moment and our Art Deco Style Necklace is just lovely worn with the matching earrings. In citrine we have a wonderful vintage set of ring, earrings and necklace which is also available in a number of different colours. Aquamarine is another favourite and our Victorian Floral Earrings would be lovely for bridesmaids dressed in blue.

Cubic zirconia jewellery would also make a great birthday gift for April birthdays as diamond is the gemstone for April babies. How about our cute little Kiss Kiss Necklace or an elegant Deco Style Ring.  Perfect for wedding bridal jewellery too. Our stunning silver sparkling statement necklace would look wonderful on a bride with a scoop or v-neck wedding dress.

Ethics

Mining of real diamonds can have a negative impact on the environment and can be associated with unethical practices. While lab grown diamonds are a more eco friendly option they still require a significant amount of energy to create. Cubic Zirconia however is a man-made stone that doesn’t have the same level of negative impacts on the environment. So, you can feel good about yourself when you wear jewellery from our range.

Hello Cubic Zirconia Jewellery

So, in my view, if you can afford the real thing then go for it but remember the ethical implications and also the worry of losing them or having them stolen. Lab grown diamonds are neither one thing nor the other but still quite expensive.  Cubic zirconia is a popular alternative offering a little bit of affordable luxury which is attainable for everyone. With options ranging from a single stone set in a silver band, the perfect eternity ring, a stacking ring or even a stunning engagement ring, there’s something for everyone. Buyers can also feel good knowing that there is minimal impact on the environment. So, say goodbye to real and lab grown diamonds and say hello to beautiful and affordable cubic zirconia rings - the perfect combination of style and value.