When it comes to choosing affordable alternatives to real diamonds, American Diamonds (AD) and Cubic Zirconia (CZ) are among the most popular choices. Both are widely used in fashion jewellery for their brilliance and resemblance to real diamonds. But how do they truly compare in terms of durability and care requirements? Let’s break it down.
What Are They Made Of?
American Diamond (AD) is a general term often used in India to describe a type of man-made stone, typically glass-based or synthetic crystal. While beautiful, its composition is softer and more prone to damage.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ), on the other hand, is a crystalline form of zirconium dioxide. It’s produced under controlled lab conditions and is optically flawless, making it an excellent diamond simulant.
Durability Tests: Which Lasts Longer?
Hardness:
Cubic Zirconia ranks about 8–8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it much more scratch-resistant than American Diamonds, which usually fall below 6 on the scale.
Wear & Tear Resistance:
CZ is tougher and can withstand everyday wear much better. AD stones are more susceptible to chipping, scratches, and even fading over time due to their glass-like nature.
Shine Retention:
Over time, American Diamonds tend to lose their brilliance faster, especially when exposed to chemicals or sunlight. CZ retains its sparkle longer with minimal maintenance.
Heat & Chemical Resistance:
CZ is more heat-stable and doesn’t cloud easily with exposure to perfumes, lotions, or water. American Diamonds can dull or discolor quickly under similar conditions.
Care Routine: How to Keep Them Sparkling
For Cubic Zirconia:
Clean regularly with mild soap and warm water using a soft brush.
Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
Store separately in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
For American Diamonds:
Handle with extra care—wipe gently with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use.
Avoid contact with perfumes, sprays, or moisture.
Store in dry, cool places and avoid direct sunlight to maintain clarity.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Cubic Zirconia if you want better durability, brilliance, and long-term wear—ideal for rings, earrings, and daily-wear items.
Opt for American Diamond for occasional use, decorative sets, or when shopping on a tighter budget.
Conclusion
While both American Diamonds and Cubic Zirconia offer affordable luxury, CZ clearly outshines AD in terms of durability, brilliance retention, and overall strength. With proper care, both can stay beautiful, but CZ gives you more value and longevity in the long run.
