Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown vs. Cubic Zirconia: What’s the Real Difference?
If you’re searching for jewelry that truly lasts, something meaningful, valuable, and stunning, understanding the difference between natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and cubic zirconia is essential.
Not all sparkle is created equal. Some stones are built to last a lifetime, while others may shine briefly but fade quickly. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know before buying your next piece of diamond jewelry so you can choose what’s real, what’s lasting, and what’s truly worth it.
What Are Natural Diamonds?
Natural diamonds are Earth’s finest creation, formed billions of years ago under intense heat and pressure. Composed entirely of carbon in a crystal structure, they are unmatched in hardness, brilliance, and rarity.
At Nancy's Jewelry, every diamond we use is a genuine, ethically sourced natural diamond. No imitations. No simulants.
Why choose natural? Because nothing else offers the same long-term value, resale potential, and emotional significance.
Pros:
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Formed naturally over billions of years
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Superior durability (10/10 Mohs scale)
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High appraisal and resale value
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A symbol of love, permanence, and tradition
Cons:
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Higher price point
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Must be verified as conflict-free
Want to learn more about natural diamond standards? Visit the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world’s most trusted authority on diamond grading.
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What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are created in high-tech labs that replicate the natural diamond formation process. They’re chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds—but they are made in weeks, not millennia.
They’re often marketed as a budget-friendly or “ethical” alternative, but buyers should understand the tradeoffs.
Pros:
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Chemically identical to natural diamonds
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More affordable
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Traceable sourcing and lower environmental impact
Cons:
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No geological rarity
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Lower resale and investment value
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Not viewed as precious by collectors
While they’re still diamonds, they lack the irreplaceable rarity and emotional weight that natural stones carry.
Want an expert breakdown? See the IGI Guide to Lab-Grown Diamonds.
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What Is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone made from zirconium dioxide. While it may resemble a diamond at first glance, it’s not chemically or structurally similar. And its beauty is short-lived.
Most fashion jewelry that’s under $100 is likely made with CZ. While it may look nice in the moment, it doesn’t age well.
Pros:
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Very affordable
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Mimics diamond sparkle for a short time
Cons:
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Scratches and clouds easily
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No resale value
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Not a real diamond in composition or durability
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Short lifespan, just 1 to 3 years with wear
Looking to spot the difference? The FTC Jewelry Guidelines offer useful definitions on what qualifies as a diamond vs. a simulant.
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Diamond Comparison Chart
|
Feature |
Natural Diamond |
Lab-Grown Diamond |
Cubic Zirconia |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Material |
Pure carbon |
Pure carbon |
Zirconium dioxide |
|
Durability (Mohs) |
10/10 |
10/10 |
8.5/10 |
|
Sparkle |
Brilliant |
Brilliant |
Less brilliance |
|
Price |
$$$$ |
$$–$$$ |
$ |
|
Resale Value |
High |
Low to moderate |
None |
|
Sustainability |
Varies |
High |
High (short-term) |
|
Lifespan |
Lifetime |
Lifetime |
1–3 years |
|
Real Diamond? |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
What We Use at Nancy's Jewelry
At Nancy's Jewelry, we’re committed to timeless quality. That’s why we only use:
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14k solid gold (never plated)
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Natural, ethically sourced diamonds
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No simulants. No lab-grown. No cubic zirconia. Ever.
Each piece is designed to be worn daily, passed down, and appreciated for a lifetime, without clouding, scratching, or fading.
Whether you’re buying a gift for a loved one or treating yourself, we believe your jewelry should hold meaning and value for years to come.
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Final Thoughts
The truth is, not all sparkle is equal.
While lab-grown diamonds and CZ may shine for a season, only natural diamonds offer enduring beauty, unmatched value, and deep-rooted meaning. They are formed over billions of years and chosen to celebrate life’s most important moments. That legacy is worth investing in.
