mineral
Diamond (or Cubic Zirconia simulant)
Carbon (C) or Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2)
Hardness: 10 (Diamond) or 8-8.5 (CZ); Color: Colorless; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Cubic; Brilliance: High dispersion (fire).
- Hardness
- 10 (Diamond) or 8-8
- Color
- Colorless
- Luster
- Adamantine
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Diamond) or 8-8.5 (CZ); Color: Colorless; Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Cubic; Brilliance: High dispersion (fire).
Formation & geological history
Natural diamonds form deep in the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure and heat billion of years ago. Cubic Zirconia is lab-grown through a process called cold-crucible induction melting.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as gemstones (engagement rings, earrings) and in industrial applications for cutting and grinding (diamonds only).
Geological facts
Natural diamonds are the hardest known natural material on Earth. Cubic zirconia was synthesized in the 1970s as a cost-effective alternative to diamond.
Field identification & locations
Identification involves testing thermal conductivity (diamond testers), checking for double refraction, or looking for natural inclusions under magnification.
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