When you’re shopping for affordable sparkle, two names often come up: moissanite and cubic zirconia. At first glance, they can look similar — but don’t let the sparkle fool you. These two stones are worlds apart in terms of quality, durability, and long-term value.
At Kofsky & Stone, we exclusively use lab-grown moissanite because it offers the brilliance of fine diamonds — without the price tag or ethical concerns. If you're comparing your options, here's what you need to know before choosing between moissanite vs cubic zirconia (CZ).
💎 1. Brilliance and Sparkle
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Moissanite has a higher refractive index (2.65) than both cubic zirconia and diamond, which means it reflects more light and has more fire (those rainbow sparkles you see in the sun).
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Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, has a lower refractive index and can appear dull or glassy over time.
Winner: Moissanite — it sparkles more and holds that sparkle longer.
🔧 2. Durability and Wear
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Moissanite is incredibly durable, ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale — second only to diamonds. You can wear it every day without worrying about scratches or clouding.
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CZ is much softer, ranking only 8–8.5, and scratches easily. Over time, it will lose clarity and start to look cloudy or worn.
Winner: Moissanite — it’s ideal for everyday wear, especially in earrings, bracelets, and rings.
Check out our customer favourites:
Mini Hoops in Silver →
Tennis Bracelet in Gold →
🌿 3. Ethics and Sustainability
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Moissanite is lab-grown, conflict-free, and doesn’t require mining. It’s an excellent choice for conscious shoppers looking for sustainable luxury.
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CZ is also lab-created, but it's often used in mass-produced, lower-quality jewellery with little focus on environmental or ethical standards.
Winner: Moissanite — it’s the clear choice for sustainable sparkle.
💰 4. Value and Longevity
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Moissanite may cost more upfront than CZ, but it retains its clarity, brilliance, and quality for years. It’s a long-term investment in beauty and craftsmanship.
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CZ is much cheaper but won’t last — meaning you’ll likely need to replace it frequently if you want to maintain the same look.
Winner: Moissanite — better value over time.
✨ Final Verdict
If you want a beautiful, ethical, and long-lasting stone that rivals (and in many cases exceeds) diamonds in brilliance, moissanite wins every time.
While CZ may be a budget-friendly option, it simply can’t match the durability, quality, and elegance of moissanite.
Looking to make your first purchase?
Explore our full collection of moissanite jewellery →