Moissanite vs. Cubic Zirconia
At first glance Moissanite resembles a diamond and might be easily mistaken for a diamond, a synthetic (lab grown) diamond or diamond simulant (Cubic Zirconia). When looking at Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia (perhaps the world's most popular diamond simulant), the differences in Moissanite are obvious.
Cubic Zirconia is known as an inexpensive simulated diamond look-alike, inferior in almost every gemological property to Moissanite and diamonds. Cubic Zirconias are mass produced under a myriad of trade names and promoted with various brand names, while
Moissanite is superior in appearance, with an unfading beauty and durability.
Moissanite is Harder than Cubic Zirconia - 219% less likely to scratch
Moissanite is Tougher than Cubic Zirconia - 317% less likely to chip
Moissanite has Superior Visual Properties - 25% more brilliant than a CZ
Moissanite has a Higher Refractive Index - 58% more fire & luster
Moissanite is better Resistant to Dirt - Requires substantially less cleaning
Moissanite is Stable and Durable - Will no shatter or change colour
When looking at Moissanite vs Cubic Zirconia, what can be concluded is that in the end, Cubic Zirconia is great for cheaper fashion jewellery, it has too strong an affinity to dirt, and its optical properties (luster, fire and brilliance) all fall short when compared to a Moissanite.