CZ or Moissanite? The Truth About Diamond Alternatives

There’s no denying it: diamonds are beautiful. But they’re also expensive, often mined unethically, and not always necessary to get that signature sparkle.

That’s where Cubic Zirconia (CZ) and Moissanite come in. These diamond alternatives have grown in popularity over the last decade – and for good reason. They look the part, cost a fraction of the price, and can be paired with a variety of durable, stylish settings.

Cubic Zirconia is lab-created, widely available, and gives a clean, glassy sparkle. It’s perfect for small stud earrings or occasional pieces where you don’t want to risk losing something valuable. One major advantage? Cost. High-street retailers typically sell CZ earrings for around £25–£60 per pair depending on the setting and finish. They’re easy to find, and if you care for them properly, they can last longer than most people expect. CZ is also a fun option for trend-led looks—because you’re not breaking the bank, you can afford to switch things up more often.

Moissanite, by contrast, is a lab-grown gemstone that is almost as hard as a diamond (ranking 9.25 on the Mohs scale, compared to diamond’s 10). Its fire and brilliance actually exceed that of diamonds in certain lighting. Moissanite also tends to be lab-grown, making it more ethical and sustainable than many mined stones. Retailers usually price Moissanite earrings between £80 and £150, depending on the cut, carat, and material used in the setting. For special occasions or long-term wear, it’s an excellent investment.

Here’s a quick comparison:

CZ: Widely available, typically £25–£60 on the high street, affordable sparkle, may cloud over time.

Moissanite: Often priced £80–£150, long-lasting and brilliant, more ethical than diamonds.

If you’re shopping for earrings in the UK, one brand that offers both is Aurea. Their CZ studs start at just £10, and their Moissanite earrings range from £30 to £50—a significant drop compared to traditional retail prices. All of Aurea’s stud earrings are made with either stainless steel or sterling silver posts, making them a great option for daily wear and sensitive ears. Their designs are clean, minimal, and ideal for layering or mixing with other pieces in your collection.

You can explore their range at: www.shopaurea.co.uk

So whether you're after subtle shine or maximum glam, these stones deliver. It’s not about faking luxury – it’s about finding pieces that fit your style and your budget. And with more shoppers seeking ethical, low-maintenance alternatives, there’s never been a better time to explore beyond diamonds.

Jewellery should make you feel good—about how you look, and how your pieces were sourced. Moissanite and CZ let you have both sparkle and peace of mind. You can feel confident in your style choices without compromising on ethics or your bank balance.

The best part? No one will know the difference unless you tell them. And even if you do, chances are, they’ll want to know where you got them. Whether you’re building your jewellery collection or just looking for a statement piece for your next event, CZ and Moissanite offer sparkle and sophistication—without the stress or the price tag that comes with diamonds.

With so many options available today, there’s no need to compromise. You can shop smarter, spend less, and still enjoy jewellery that makes you feel amazing. In the end, confidence is the best thing you can wear—and the right piece of jewellery just makes it shine.

If you’re thinking about your next jewellery purchase, consider looking beyond traditional diamonds. Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia both prove that quality, sparkle, and sentiment don’t have to come with a luxury price tag. All it takes is knowing where to look.