What is the Difference between Diamond and Zircon?

Diamond and zircon are two different gemstones that are often compared to each other due to their similar appearance. However, there are some key differences between the two. While diamond and zircon may look similar, they are quite different in terms of their chemical composition, hardness, brilliance, rarity, and color. If you are looking for a durable and valuable gemstone, then diamond may be the better choice. However, if you are looking for a colorful and affordable gemstone, then zircon may be a good option.

Chemical Composition: Diamonds are made of pure carbon, while zircon is made of zirconium silicate. This means that diamond is a naturally occurring mineral, whereas zircon is a synthetic material that is often produced in a lab.

Hardness: Diamond is the hardest natural material on earth and ranks a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, while zircon ranks at 7.5. This means that diamonds are much more durable and resistant to scratching than zircon.

Brilliance: Diamonds have a higher refractive index than zircon, which means that they reflect more light and have a higher level of brilliance and sparkle.

Rarity: Diamonds are extremely rare and valuable, which is why they are often associated with luxury and wealth. Zircon, on the other hand, is much more common and less valuable.

Color: While diamonds can come in a range of colors, the most common color is white or clear. Zircon, on the other hand, can come in a variety of colors, including blue, green, yellow, and red.

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Many people can’t tell the difference between a diamond and a zircon. If you are shopping for a diamond, it’s important to know how to distinguish between the two because diamonds sell for considerably more. Read on to find out the secret that professional jewelers use to set a diamond apart from a zircon.

Cubic Zironcia

A cubic zirconia, also called a zircon, is a knockoff of a diamond basically. It has a much lower rating than a diamond but some high quality zircons can pass for low-quality diamonds to the untrained eye. Don’t be fooled. They are not the same.

Zircons are slightly denser than diamonds are and they weigh more too. You won’t find the brilliance of a diamond in a zirconia. But, they do have beauty to them and if a zircon is what you are wanting, wonderful. Often times customers are tricked into buying one though, thinking they are buying a diamond.

Diamond

A diamond is the hardest stone on the planet. It is comprised of carbon which creates the brilliance and the hardness as well. Diamonds have been beloved through the ages and are considered to be precious, like silver and gold.

Antique Diamond

A diamond is worth a considerable amount but when you add in the fact that one is vintage, the value goes up even higher. An antique diamond is one that was mined between 1300 and 1930. There are a number of varieties of antique diamonds in existence. The value depends upon the time period the diamond was cut and who the jeweler was that cut the stone. An antique diamond can be traced back to a specific era including Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, and others.

It’s important to know how to determine an antique diamond is real and not a zircon. Jewelers suggest putting the piece in question under a natural light. A diamond will give off a brilliance which is a white light. A cubic zirconia tends to give off a rainbow effect. You can also take the stone to a diamond appraiser to see if it is a real diamond or a zircon.

Antique Diamond Jewelry

Antique diamond jewelry shopping is different from modern diamond shopping. You’ll be taking the history of the antique diamond jewelry into consideration. If you are attracted to a specific era, you’ll want to research about diamonds during those times. There is an air of excitement that is wrapped around vintage diamonds, something you’ll be able to embrace when you find yours.
Some of the most popular cuts of antique diamond jewelry are: Diamond Cut, Rose Cut, Old Mine Cut and Old European Cut.

Best Diamond Appraisal

To get the best diamond appraisal, you will want to start with a list you gather from online or another source. Narrow down your choices by checking out how long the appraiser has been in business and be sure to read the reviews too. Ask family, friends, and enthusiasts who they recommend for the best diamond appraisal. You can take it to a local appraiser or find one online. If you do business online though, never send your jewelry.

Diamond and Crystal Difference

Diamonds are a form of carbon. They are formed under high heat and pressure deep within the earth’s crust. It is the hardest natural substance so to speak. … Crystal is a mineral that usually comes in various shapes, sizes and even colours

Antique Diamond Buyers

If you are looking for an antique diamond jewelry appraisal, be sure to check out Antique Diamond Buyers. You will find they are professional and trustworthy. Established in 1972, you can trust your appraisal of antique diamond jewelry to Antique Diamond Buyers.