What is a Diamond Simulant?
Diamond simulants, also called simulated diamonds, imitation diamonds, or diamond alternatives, are stones that mimic the appearance of natural diamonds but are not actually made of carbon like natural diamonds are. They can be both natural and synthetic. The most popular synthetic diamond simulants on the market today are cubic zirconia, rhinestone, moissanite, and lab-grown white sapphire. Natural diamond simulants include quartz, zircon, and topaz. Note: Lab-grown diamonds are not considered diamond simulants. They have the same physical, optical and chemical structure (100% carbon) as mined diamonds. The only difference is that natural diamonds are mined from the earth while lab-grown diamonds are created.How to Tell a Diamond Simulant
While most diamond simulants have properties that closely approach natural diamonds, they have one or more physical or optical properties that are noticeably different from diamonds. Below are some characteristics on which diamond simulants differ from the real ones.Hardness
Diamonds are one the hardest naturally occurring materials on earth, with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. This means that they can only be scratched or damaged by other diamonds or materials that are harder than they are. This hardness allows diamonds to keep their brilliant luster for centuries. The hardness of a diamond simulant cannot match that of a real diamond. For example, the hardness of cubic zirconia is only 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, while moissanite is 9.25-9.5. This makes them scratch, crack, chip, and break easier than diamonds.Fire and Brilliance
The fire and brilliance of a gemstone are caused by how it refracts and reflects light. Diamonds have a higher refractive index than any other natural material, which means they disperse light into the colors of the rainbow (fire) and reflect it back to the eye (brilliance). The fire and brilliance of diamond simulants are lower than that of diamonds. Cubic zirconia, for example, has a refractive index of 2.15-2.18, while moissanite has a refractive index of 2.65-2.69.Color
Diamonds occur in all rainbow colors, but most are white (also called colorless) and pale yellow or brown. The color of a diamond is caused by impurities in the crystal structure, such as trace elements of nitrogen, sulfur, or boron. On the other hand, diamond simulants can also be found in all colors of the rainbow, but the most popular ones are clear or near-clear. Cubic zirconia, for example, is lab-made; manufacturers control the process, including the final color.Price
One of the easiest ways to tell a diamond simulant from a real diamond is price. Diamonds are rare and expensive, while diamond simulants are much more affordable. One carat of diamond costs between $1,300 and $16,500, while one carat of a diamond simulant such as cubic zirconia costs as low as $20.Why Choose Diamond Simulants
- Diamond simulants are affordable as they cost significantly lower than natural, mined, and lab-grown diamonds.
- Simulants are a sustainable option as most are lab-grown and do not require ming.
- Simulated diamonds are available in a wide range of shapes, including rounds, ovals, pears, emerald cuts, princess cuts, and more.
- Simulants can be set in all popular jewelry styles, including solitaire, three-stone and halo rings, pendants, and earrings.
How to Care for Diamond Simulants Jewelry
Diamond simulants are not as durable as diamonds, so they require special care to prevent scratching, chipping, and breakage. Consider these tips to help keep your simulated diamond jewelry in good condition.- Store diamond simulants separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching.
- Clean your jewelry with a soft, damp cloth.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the simulant.
- Have your jewelry checked by a professional jeweler at least once a year to ensure they are still in good condition.