There is often some confusion when looking for diamond jewelry because of the differences between natural diamonds, cultured diamonds, and cubic zirconia. While all of these gems are popular when set into jewelry, there are some important differences between these gems that should be explained. Besides the price difference that exists between the three choices, there are also quality and appearance variations that need to be considered when choosing between cultured diamonds, natural diamonds and cubic zirconia.

Diamond is a gem that naturally occurs as opposed to being manufactured. Diamonds, which are formed from a particular formation of carbon atoms, are the hardest material in nature and are mined from the earth. There is often a certain degree of controversy surrounding the mining of natural diamonds, and as such, some people prefer to buy diamond alternatives. Cubic zirconia and cultured diamonds are less costly than natural diamonds.

Cubic zirconia is similar to natural diamonds in some aspects, but also varies in many respects. Cubic zirconia is visually flawless because it is synthesized, and it is quite hard. clear white.

Although not nearly as hard as mined or cultured diamonds, it is still quite durable and is a low cost alternative to natural diamonds.

Cultured diamond is another popular option to mined diamonds. Often referred to as lab grown diamonds, cultured diamonds are made to be identical chemically, physically and optically to naturally mined diamonds. Cultured diamonds generally cost less than natural diamonds, but they are still much more expensive than cubic zirconia or diamond hybrid. Cultured diamonds can come in different colors, but the most popular color is brilliant colorless white.

The hybrid diamond has many specific advantages over the other types of natural diamond alternatives. A crystalline core is covered with a layer of diamond to make a diamond hybrid. The resulting effect is brilliant, creating a very hard gem with an index refraction and light dispersion which is very similar to that of a natural diamond. Hybrid diamonds are positively brilliant, especially when cut and polished by an expert, and do not become discolored over time.
While hybrid diamonds are more expensive than cubic zirconia, they are more affordable than mined or traditional cultured diamonds.  These beautiful gems are becoming quite popular as an alternative  to mined diamonds for those who want the beauty and sparkle of a diamond without the high cost.