What Is an American Diamond (CZ)?
Composition of CZ Stones
American Diamonds, commonly known as Cubic Zirconia (CZ), are man-made stones created from zirconium dioxide. They are not carbon-based and do not share the same internal structure as real diamonds. CZ stones are designed purely to imitate the look of diamonds.
Cost and Affordability
CZ jewellery is widely available at very low prices, making it appealing for short-term or occasional wear. However, the lower cost reflects compromises in quality and longevity.
Durability and Lifespan
On the Mohs hardness scale, CZ ranks around 8–8.5, while diamonds rank a perfect 10. With regular use, CZ stones tend to scratch, lose sharpness, and develop a cloudy appearance that reduces their visual appeal.
What Is a Lab Grown Diamond?
How Lab Grown Diamonds Are Created
A lab-grown diamond is produced using advanced scientific methods that recreate natural diamond-forming conditions. Technologies such as High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) allow diamonds to grow from carbon, just as they do in nature.
Chemical & Physical Properties
A lab-grown diamond is made of pure carbon crystals, identical to mined diamonds in chemical, physical, and optical properties. Even trained professionals require specialised equipment to tell them apart.
Price Comparison with Natural Diamonds
Compared to mined diamonds, a lab-grown diamond is typically 30–60% more affordable while offering the same brilliance, hardness, and clarity.
Key Differences Between CZ and Lab Grown Diamonds
| Feature | Cubic Zirconia (CZ) | Lab-Grown Diamond |
| Origin | Synthetic imitation stone | Created in labs with natural diamond composition |
| Chemical Composition | Zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) | Pure carbon |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | ~8.0–8.5 | 10 |
| Brilliance | Bright with excess rainbow flashes | Natural diamond-like brilliance |
| Durability | Scratches and dulls over time | Extremely durable |
| Density | Heavier than diamonds of same size | Same as natural diamonds |
| Cost | Very low | Lower than mined diamonds |
| Visual Appearance | Softer, glassy look | Indistinguishable from natural diamonds |
| Resale Value | Negligible | Moderate |
| Certification | Not certified | Can be certified by gem labs |
| Jewellery Use | Fashion or costume pieces | Fine and engagement jewellery |
| Ethical Aspect | Synthetic | Sustainable and conflict-free |
| Thermal Conductivity | Low | High, like natural diamonds |
Why Choose Lab Grown Diamonds Over CZ?
Long-Term Value
While CZ may look appealing initially, it degrades with time. A lab-grown diamond maintains its brilliance and structural integrity, making it a more sensible long-term choice.
Ideal for Everyday Wear
Thanks to their hardness and resistance to scratches, lab-created diamonds are suitable for daily wear in rings, earrings, and bracelets without losing their shine.
Ethical and Responsible Luxury
A lab-grown diamond avoids the environmental and ethical concerns associated with mining. This makes it an appealing option for buyers who value sustainability alongside beauty.
Lab Grown Diamond Jewellery: Modern Elegance
Craftsmanship and Quality
High-quality lab-created diamonds are graded and certified using the same standards applied to mined diamonds, ensuring clarity, cut precision, and authenticity.
Sustainable Choice
Choosing a lab-grown diamond supports reduced environmental impact while still offering the timeless appeal associated with fine diamond jewellery.
Why This Option Appeals to Today’s Buyers
Modern consumers appreciate jewellery that balances ethics, affordability, and lasting beauty. With precise cuts, consistent quality, and responsible sourcing, lab-created diamonds meet these expectations seamlessly.
By understanding the true differences between American Diamond (CZ) and a lab-grown diamond, buyers can move beyond surface sparkle and invest in jewellery that delivers durability, authenticity, and confidence with every wear.