- Composition and Durability: Moissanite is a naturally occurring mineral replicated in labs, with unique qualities that make it durable and more brilliant. Unlike synthetic CZ, moissanite is significantly harder (3000 kg/mm² on the Knoop scale vs. 1370 kg/mm² for CZ), making it over 200% harder and highly resistant to scratches. In terms of toughness, moissanite is also three times more resistant to chipping, ensuring longevity under everyday wear. CZ, in contrast, is softer and more prone to scratches and surface wear.
- Optical Properties: Moissanite has a refractive index of 2.69 and a dispersion rate of 0.104, giving it a brilliance and fire that surpass those of CZ, whose lower refractive index (1.8–2.17) limits its sparkle. The result is a more dynamic light performance in moissanite, with greater rainbow-like flashes, compared to the flatter “glassy” appearance of CZ.
- Windowing and Cleanliness: CZ’s lower refractive index causes more “windowing,” where light passes straight through the stone, making it appear dull or dark from certain angles. Additionally, CZ attracts dirt and oils, requiring frequent cleaning to maintain its shine, while moissanite, with higher luster and less affinity for dirt, remains cleaner for longer.
- Heat Resistance and Stability: Moissanite withstands high temperatures without damage, whereas CZ can become cloudy or even crack under heat, limiting its use in settings requiring alterations.
- While CZ can be a budget-friendly option for fashion jewelry, moissanite is the superior choice for durability, brilliance, and lasting beauty, making it better suited for pieces intended to last a lifetime.
Moissanite vs. Cubic Zirconia (CZ)
Moissanite vs. CZ: A Superior Choice
Durability: Moissanite, a lab-replicated gemstone, is over 200% harder than CZ (3000 kg/mm² vs. 1370 kg/mm² on the Knoop scale), offering exceptional scratch and chip resistance, perfect for daily wear.
Brilliance and Fire:** With a refractive index of 2.69 and a dispersion rate of 0.104, moissanite surpasses CZ in brilliance, delivering vibrant rainbow-like flashes compared to CZ’s flatter, glassy sparkle.
Cleanliness:** Moissanite’s higher luster and resistance to dirt ensure lasting shine with minimal maintenance, while CZ requires frequent cleaning due to its tendency to attract oils.
Heat Resistance:** Moissanite withstands high temperatures without clouding or cracking, unlike CZ, which is less stable under heat.
For those seeking jewelry with lasting beauty, brilliance, and durability, moissanite stands out as the superior choice, combining elegance with resilience.
Durability: Moissanite, a lab-replicated gemstone, is over 200% harder than CZ (3000 kg/mm² vs. 1370 kg/mm² on the Knoop scale), offering exceptional scratch and chip resistance, perfect for daily wear.
Brilliance and Fire:** With a refractive index of 2.69 and a dispersion rate of 0.104, moissanite surpasses CZ in brilliance, delivering vibrant rainbow-like flashes compared to CZ’s flatter, glassy sparkle.
Cleanliness:** Moissanite’s higher luster and resistance to dirt ensure lasting shine with minimal maintenance, while CZ requires frequent cleaning due to its tendency to attract oils.
Heat Resistance:** Moissanite withstands high temperatures without clouding or cracking, unlike CZ, which is less stable under heat.
For those seeking jewelry with lasting beauty, brilliance, and durability, moissanite stands out as the superior choice, combining elegance with resilience.
