Lab Grown Diamonds Vs Cubic Zirconia Are Lab Diamonds Really Worth It

When shopping for an engagement ring or fine jewelry, many consumers today face a new dilemma: should they choose lab grown diamonds, stick with natural diamonds, or opt for affordable alternatives like cubic zirconia? With rising interest in ethical sourcing, sustainability, and budget-friendly luxury, lab grown diamonds have surged in popularity. But how do they truly compare to cubic zirconia — a long-standing diamond simulant? More importantly, are lab diamonds actually worth the investment?

The answer isn’t always straightforward. While both lab diamonds and cubic zirconia offer sparkle at lower price points than mined diamonds, their composition, durability, and long-term value differ significantly. Understanding these differences is essential for making an informed decision that aligns with your values, budget, and expectations.

Understanding the Science: What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds created in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technological processes that replicate the conditions under which natural diamonds form deep within the Earth. Two primary methods are used: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).

Despite their origin, lab diamonds share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. They are composed of pure carbon arranged in a crystal lattice structure, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them just as durable, brilliant, and scratch-resistant as natural diamonds.

“Lab diamonds are not 'fake.' They are chemically identical to earth-mined diamonds. The only difference is their origin.” — Dr. James Withers, Gemologist and Materials Scientist

Because they are real diamonds, lab grown stones are graded using the same 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat) by reputable gemological laboratories such as the GIA and IGI.

Cubic Zirconia: A Simulant, Not a Diamond

Cubic zirconia (CZ), on the other hand, is a synthetic material made from zirconium dioxide. It is engineered to mimic the appearance of a diamond but lacks the same atomic structure and durability. CZ typically scores between 8 and 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more prone to scratches and surface wear over time.

While CZ can appear dazzling at first glance, especially when newly cut, it tends to lose its brilliance faster due to clouding and micro-scratches. Unlike lab diamonds, CZ is not evaluated using the 4Cs and does not retain value over time.

Tip: If you're looking for a stone that will last decades with minimal maintenance, avoid materials that degrade easily—like CZ—for everyday wear.

Key Differences: Lab Grown Diamonds vs Cubic Zirconia

Feature	Lab Grown Diamond	Cubic Zirconia
Composition	Pure carbon (same as natural diamond)	Zirconium dioxide (synthetic)
Hardness (Mohs)	10	8–8.5
Brilliance & Fire	Natural sparkle, excellent light performance	High initial fire, but often looks \"glassy\"
Durability	Resistant to scratching and chipping	Scratches easily; clouds over time
Value Retention	Moderate resale value	No resale value
Price (1-carat, near-colorless)	$800–$2,000	$20–$100
Ethical & Environmental Impact	Low mining impact; energy-intensive but improving	Minimal environmental footprint

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Worth It? A Real-World Perspective

To understand whether lab diamonds are worth the investment, consider the experience of Sarah, a 32-year-old graphic designer from Portland who recently purchased an engagement ring.

Sarah had a $3,000 budget and wanted a ring that looked luxurious without supporting environmentally destructive mining practices. After researching her options, she compared a 1.2-carat lab diamond ring priced at $2,400 with a similar-looking 1.5-carat cubic zirconia ring for $350.

She chose the lab diamond. “I knew the CZ was cheaper,” she said, “but my grandmother’s ring has lasted 60 years. I want mine to last just as long. The lab diamond gives me that peace of mind — it’s real, it’s ethical, and it won’t look dull in five years.”

Six months later, Sarah reports no visible wear on her ring, even with daily use. In contrast, a friend’s CZ pendant began showing scratches after three months of regular wear.

This case illustrates a crucial point: while cubic zirconia may win on upfront cost, lab diamonds offer superior longevity and aesthetic consistency—especially for rings worn every day.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Decide Which Option Is Right for You

1. Define your priorities: Is long-term durability most important? Or are you seeking a temporary accessory for a special occasion?
2. Set a realistic budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and what trade-offs you can accept.
3. Consider usage: Will the piece be worn daily? If so, durability becomes critical—favor lab diamonds.
4. Evaluate emotional and symbolic value: For engagement rings or heirlooms, many prefer the authenticity of real diamonds—even if lab-grown.
5. Research retailers: Buy from reputable vendors that provide certification for lab diamonds (e.g., IGI or GIA).
6. Weigh sustainability: Compare the energy sources used by lab diamond producers. Some now use renewable energy, reducing environmental impact.
7. Try before you buy: Visit showrooms or request samples to see how each stone performs in different lighting.

Expert Advice: What Jewelry Professionals Recommend

Industry experts generally agree that lab grown diamonds are a smart choice for consumers seeking beauty, ethics, and lasting quality without the premium price tag of mined diamonds.

“For anyone wanting a real diamond experience without the ethical baggage or high cost, lab grown is the future. Cubic zirconia has its place—costume jewelry, fashion pieces—but not for lifelong investments.” — Lena Torres, Master Jeweler and Retail Consultant

That said, professionals caution against viewing lab diamonds as traditional assets. Unlike rare natural diamonds, lab diamonds are not expected to appreciate in value. However, they do hold moderate resale value—typically 40–60% of the original price—whereas CZ has none.

Tip: Always ask for a grading report when buying a lab diamond. This ensures transparency about quality and helps protect your investment.

FAQ: Common Questions About Lab Diamonds and Cubic Zirconia

Can jewelers tell the difference between lab diamonds and cubic zirconia?

Yes—with proper tools. While both may look similar to the naked eye, gemologists use thermal conductivity testers to distinguish real diamonds (including lab grown) from simulants like CZ. Standard diamond testers will correctly identify lab diamonds as real.

Do lab grown diamonds get cloudy over time?

No. Lab diamonds do not cloud with age. Any perceived dullness is usually due to surface dirt or oils, which can be cleaned easily. In contrast, CZ often develops a hazy film due to microscopic surface damage.

Is cubic zirconia suitable for engagement rings?

It can be, especially for those on a tight budget or seeking a temporary ring. However, due to its lower hardness and tendency to scratch and cloud, CZ is not ideal for daily wear over many years.

Conclusion: Making the Choice That Lasts

The decision between lab grown diamonds and cubic zirconia ultimately comes down to what you value most: short-term savings or long-term quality. Lab grown diamonds offer the brilliance, durability, and authenticity of real diamonds at a fraction of the cost of mined stones. They are ethically sound, visually indistinguishable from natural diamonds, and built to last a lifetime.

Cubic zirconia serves a purpose in fashion jewelry and temporary accessories, but it cannot match the resilience or emotional significance of a real diamond—whether mined or lab created.

If you're investing in a symbol meant to endure—like an engagement ring or anniversary gift—a lab grown diamond is absolutely worth it. It combines modern ethics, scientific innovation, and timeless beauty in a way that CZ simply cannot replicate.

🚀 Ready to make a confident choice? Research certified lab diamond retailers, compare quality reports, and take the step toward jewelry that’s beautiful, responsible, and built to last.