Diamond vs Cubic zirconia
Diamond is harder (Mohs 10) than Cubic zirconia (Mohs 8–8.5), so it resists scratching better.
Diamond has the higher refractive index (2.417 vs 2.15–2.18), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Cubic zirconia is denser (SG 5.8 vs 3.52); a cubic zirconia of the same size weighs about 65% more.
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| Property | Diamond | Cubic zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Diamond (carbon) | Synthetic zirconium oxide |
| Mohs hardness | 10 | 8–8.5 |
| Refractive index | 2.417 | 2.15–2.18 |
| Specific gravity | 3.52 | 5.8 |
| Crystal system | Cubic | Cubic |
| Birefringence | None (isotropic) | None (isotropic) |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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