The definition of a diamond simulant refers to a stone that either naturally resembles a diamond or has been specifically created to imitate a diamond. However, the main crucial differences are the chemical, physical and optical properties the stones display. The main purpose of a diamond simulant is to cost less than a natural diamond. A synthetic diamond is a laboratory-grown stone that is chemically, physically and optically the same as a mined natural diamond.
Laboratory grown diamond (synthetic):
Laboratory grown diamonds and natural diamonds have the exact same structural makeup. This means they are virtually impossible to tell apart. But don’t worry, all the laboratory grown diamonds we sell must go through a strict process which includes a tiny laser engraving on their girdle matching to a physical or digital diamond report, meaning they can always be accurately identified. You can read more about laboratory grown diamonds in our previous blog post here.
White Sapphire (naturally occurring):
According to the International Gem Society, a white sapphire is any gemstone-quality corundum that’s white or colourless. While blue sapphires have been a cult classic choice for decades, white sapphires have become an increasingly popular alternative to natural diamond engagement rings. White sapphires will often have a softer appearance than diamonds as they do not contain the same brilliance and sparkle. Sapphires sit at an 9 on the Moh’s scale of hardness, making it a suitable choice for everyday wear.
White Topaz (naturally occurring):
White topaz is a natural stone that is formed from fluorine-rich rocks and aluminium. White topaz sits at 8 on the Moh’s scale. This means it is more likely to collect scratches and chips overtime with frequent wear. White topaz is often characterised as glassy and while it carries the same clear appearance as a diamond, it lacks the fiery brilliance.
Moissanite (synthetic):
Due to its sparkling and fiery appearance, moissanite is used as a diamond simulant. This can be attributed to its high refractive index. However, natural moissanite is extremely rare meaning that most moissanite you will see will likely be laboratory-grown. Interestingly, this mineral was discovered in meteorite fragments from a 50,000 year old collision with earth in the Arizona desert. Moissanite is the second hardest gemstone after diamonds with a 9.25 on the Moh’s scale. This means it is more susceptible to wear and scratches than a diamond.
Cubic Zirconia (synthetic):
Although technically naturally occurring, natural cubic zirconia was not initially suitable for jewellery use. Mineral scientists began synthesising jewellery-grade ‘cz’ stones in the 1960s. Cubic zirconia has a high refractive index meaning it simulates the fiery brilliance of diamond nicely. However, cubic zirconia is softer and heavier than a diamond. It also does not have the same durability as it sits at around 8-8.5 on the Moh’s scale. CZs are very affordable hence their frequent use in costume and fashion jewellery. This stone has been noted to lose its sparkle over time and can develop a cloudy or dull appearance.
Paste Stones/Glass-Crystal (synthetic):
Paste stones or glass-crystal refer to man-made stones that simulates the appearance of a diamond. Most people will have owned or at least seen a variation of this product as it is mass produced and distributed globally. The invention of paste stones began in the 17th century and was highly popular during the Georgian era. Glass-crystals were successfully produced later in the 19th century. Paste stones or synthetic crystals, are essentially glass imitations of natural diamonds, which typically sit low on the Mohs scale. Depending on the type of glass used, these stones usually sit at a hardness of 5 or 6 on this scale. Because of this, they are much more affordable but also exhibit signs of wear much faster and are more prone to chipping/cracking.
Overall, any of these diamond simulants or synthetics can be a suitable choice for jewellery but it is the individual person’s preference that matters. Each of these stones has a different durability, price and appearance that needs to be considered when buying or designing your jewellery. However, we do strongly suggest a stone of appropriate durability for a piece of jewellery that will get frequent wear such as an engagement ring. If you are unsure which stone is right for you, one of our knowledgable members of staff is here to advise you on your jewellery journey.