gemstone
Faceted Diamond / Moissanite / Cubic Zirconia
Carbon (C) if Diamond, Silicon Carbide (SiC) if Moissanite
Hardness: 10 (Diamond), 9.25 (Moissanite), 8 (Cubic Zirconia). Color: Colorless. Luster: Adamantine. Crystal structure: Cubic (Diamond/CZ) or Hexagonal (Moissanite).
- Hardness
- 10 (Diamond), 9
- Color
- Colorless
- Luster
- Adamantine
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Physical properties
Hardness: 10 (Diamond), 9.25 (Moissanite), 8 (Cubic Zirconia). Color: Colorless. Luster: Adamantine. Crystal structure: Cubic (Diamond/CZ) or Hexagonal (Moissanite).
Formation & geological history
Diamonds form deep in the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure; Moissanite is rare in nature (stars) and usually lab-grown; Cubic Zirconia is entirely lab-created.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in high-end jewelry, industrial abrasives (if diamond), and as decorative accents or imitation jewelry.
Geological facts
Diamond is the hardest natural material known. Moissanite has higher dispersion and fire than diamond. Most small loose stones found in households are Cubic Zirconia or glass rhinestones.
Field identification & locations
Identify using a diamond tester or by looking for doubling of facets (Moissanite) vs single refraction (Diamond). A thermal conductivity test is required for definitive ID at home.
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