Synthetic & Imitation Diamonds
From LoveToKnow EngagementRings
Synthetic and imitation diamonds have become an increasingly popular alternative to real diamonds. Obviously, they will not be as valuable, hold their value, or even increase in value as real diamonds do, but they do offer an alternative choice for couples who do not have the financial resources to purchase a quality diamond.
What is an Imitation Diamond?
Imitations diamonds look very similar to real diamonds. They sparkle and shine, and they might fool the casual observer. However, they are made of completely different material, created in a lab by technicians.
How Can I Tell the Difference Between Real and Imitation?
Jewelers have various tools that can be used to accurately tell the difference between a real diamond and an imitation or synthetic diamond. Another method for testing involves using a white piece of paper and a marker. You'll need to draw a black line across the paper, and then place the diamond on the line. Technically, if you are able to see the line through the stone, it isn't a real diamond. However, this doesn't always hold true, especially if the stone is comprised of cubic zirconium oxide, fabulite, or rutile.
What are Some Common Imitation Diamonds?
There are several imitation diamonds on the market today, and many of these are so exquisitely formed that they can be hard to detect from an actual real diamond.
Cubic Zirconia
Probably the most common imitation diamond is the cubic zirconia, which was found naturally in the 1930s, but isn't found today. Ytrrium oxide and zirconium oxide form a cubic zirconia through a heating process. It can be bought in a variety of colors, and it is known for its brilliant, fiery appearance. It can also be created with many facets in the stone. Because it has such high hardness, it can be cleaned with jewelry cleaners and brushes. Because cubic zirconias are created, they do not contain flaws, and they are heavier than real diamonds.
Diamond Nexus
Available in the U.S. independant testing of diamond nexus stones show them to be cubic zirconia. Though it's the new kid on the block, Diamond Nexus are pretty, but are fairly expensive for CZ.
Moissanite
Although moissanite was a mineral discovered in 1893 by a French scientist, it must be manufactured today for jewelry since its natural state is too difficult to obtain. A good quality moissanite can be difficult to discern from a colorless diamond. This shiny jewel makes an excellent substitute for the real thing and Moissanite Engagement Rings are becoming increasingly popular.
Rose Quartz
Though almost never mistaken for a real diamond, a quartz's crystal appearance can offer jewelry seekers another gem option. Quartz is economical, and there are many gorgeous rings, pendants, and earrings made from quartz. Rose quartz is a popular substitute for Pink Diamond Engagement Rings.
How Can an Imitation Diamond be Enhanced?
Once you've chosen a good imitation diamond, you'll need to pay special attention to its setting. If you were to pick a beautiful stone and set it in a cheap setting, you would be lowering the value and the appearance of the ring. Be sure you choose a quality metal, such as 18k gold or platinum to showcase your stone. You should also clean your jewelry regularly to enhance its brilliance.
Cost of Synthetic & Imitation Diamonds
Many people believe that synthetic & imitation diamonds are automatically less expensive than natural stones, but this is not always true. Because of the care and precision necessary to create high-quality fabrications, an imitation stone may actually cost more than a low-quality natural diamond. The trade-off, however, is that a synthetic stone may be larger than a similarly priced natural stone. Smaller imitation stones are vastly less expensive than natural diamonds, and many couples will choose to use synthetic and imitation diamonds as accent stones or other small details to complement a natural center stone.
Synthetic and imitation diamonds are an alternative to natural stones with many benefits. They can be inexpensive substitutes for small diamonds, and they may be a better choice for an entire engagement ring depending on the style, setting, and budget. While synthetic and imitation diamonds should never be passed off as real, natural stones, they can be used to great advantage in engagement rings with the couple's knowledge.
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