Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings: The Secret That The Diamond Industry Doesn't Want You To Know

Engagement rings are a huge expense.  Even lower quality and smaller diamonds can cost thousands of dollars, and for many couples, this simply isn't possible.  The idea of spending two months salary on an engagement ring may be absolutely impossible and irresponsible for some people.  This is why cubic zirconia engagement rings make such a great choice.  They are just as beautiful as diamonds, and are much less expensive. 

Cubic zirconia engagement rings, also called CZ engagement rings, are one of the main sources of competition for the diamond industry, and for good reason.

The biggest benefit, and the main reason that most people choose cubic zirconia engagement rings is the much lower cost. Considering how difficult it can be to tell the difference between a diamond engagement ring and a cubic zirconia engagement ring, the difference in cost is quite dramatic. As an example, quality cubic zirconia engagement rings with a white gold ring band, a solitaire setting, and a 1 carat stone can cost well under $200. For a diamond ring with these characteristics, the engagement ring price jumps up to an astonishing $6,000 or more.

Apart from the price, cubic zirconia has some benefits in its own right, not just as a cheap substitute for diamonds. First, its light dispersion is higher. Dispersion refers to how the different colors contained in white light are separated out when it enters the gemstone. A higher dispersion means that the colors are reflected more, giving cubic zirconia engagement rings more "fire" than diamonds.

Another benefit is the quality of the stones. Finding a diamond with perfect color and no internal flaws or inclusions is incredibly difficult and expensive. Just about any diamond that you get will not be perfectly colorless, nor will it have perfect clarity. Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is a synthetic stone and can be made with flawless color and clarity. For very open and revealing cuts, such as a cushion cut or an emerald cut, a high quality and well cut cubic zirconia stone can look better than a lower quality diamond.

One of the biggest drawbacks to cubic zirconia engagement rings is that they are not as hard or as durable as diamond.  The saying "diamonds are forever" exists for a reason.  Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is much more likely to become scratched or cracked after years of wear.  One way to improve the durability of cubic zirconia engagement rings is to coat them with an amorphous substance, sometimes called Diamond Like Carbon, to increase their hardness and help protect them.

Cubic zirconia also weighs slightly more than diamonds, meaning that, if you want an extremely large stone, it can be noticeably heavier.  For normal sized stones, though, this isn't really a problem.

Another drawback that stops many people from purchasing cubic zirconia engagement rings is the fact that diamonds are the tradition and buying cubic zirconia just doesn't seem to carry the same symbolism or value as an authentic diamond.  If this is the way that you or your significant other feels, then you should keep in mind that the symbolism and love behind the ring is what really matters, not the type of gemstone or the price tag.

When you are looking for an engagement ring cubic zirconia can be a great choice, but is it the right choice for you?  Here are some of the things to consider when you decide.

Most importantly, think about your budget.  Can you afford to spend thousands of dollars on a diamond engagement ring right now?  Many people can't, and there is nothing wrong with that.  An expensive piece of jewelry should always be considered a luxury, never a necessity, and that includes engagement rings.  Don't fall into the trap of thinking that the ring has less meaning because it is not a diamond.

It is important, however, to discuss it as a couple.  Diamonds are the tradition, and some women may have their heart set on a diamond.  Discussing expenses, your budget, and your financial situation as you are starting your new life together may not be the most romantic thing you can think of, but it's critical.  Make sure that you are both OK with the cost and material of the ring.

One last thing to keep in mind is that the cubic zirconia in the ring can very easily be replaced by diamonds whenever you can afford it.  This is a great option for couples who don't yet have financial stability.  You can get beautiful cubic zirconia engagement rings now, while still budgeting and spending responsibly.  Then, years down the road, once you're in a more stable financial position, you can spend the money for some high quality diamonds if you want to. 

Cubic zirconia makes a fantastic alternative to the traditional diamond engagement ring.  Its main benefit is the low cost, allowing people to have beautiful rings that are almost indistinguishable from traditional expensive rings, while still spending responsibly.  Think of all the things you could do with the money you save by buying cubic zirconia engagement rings!