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Braggao specializes in diamond jewelry, but we also create a lot of jewelry with cubic zirconia. Both in form and color, these stones can appear very similar, but let’s discuss where their differences lie.
Let’s start with diamonds, the precious gemstone that you are probably already familiar with. Diamonds are entirely natural and originate from depths between 150 km to 200 km beneath the Earth’s surface. They are formed from carbon under specific pressure and heat conditions. Diamonds are obtained from natural sources such as mantle rocks, sediments, or volcanic phenomena, and they are the hardest and most durable gemstones. Here are some of the pieces featuring diamonds.
Zirconia, on the other hand, is a synthetic stone, entirely created by humans. It is composed of zirconium oxide, a transition metal. It is developed as a more affordable alternative to diamonds, and although it is heavier, it remains a very durable material but not to the degree of diamonds.
There are several ways to differentiate them. The first could be weight, as zirconia is heavier; the second is through the melting point, where diamonds can reach 3,546.85 ºC, while zirconia only reaches up to 1,852 ºC. The third is through high-magnification loupes, looking at the edges. Zirconia has slightly more rounded edges compared to diamonds, which have sharper edges.
The stones may look very similar due to their transparency and translucency. One of the most notable differences between the two is the price; zirconia can be much cheaper than a diamond, as diamonds are more precious, luxurious, and exclusive. It’s worth noting that a diamond can only be scratched by another diamond, while zirconia may show some anomalies such as very subtle scratches. But the most significant differentiation is the price, as diamonds are much more expensive due to being the only natural stone that is more exclusive and luxurious.
Braggao specializes in diamonds, which is what is mostly manufactured, but there are also some pieces with zirconia. What pieces have been your favorites for each stone? Don’t forget to follow us on our social media for more content.
