When you think of a diamond, natural stones often come to mind. But today, many beautiful and affordable alternatives exist—like lab-grown moissanite and cubic zirconia (CZ). At Octa Pearl, we use only Moissanite and CZ stones in our jewelry. Here's what makes them unique.
Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is the synthetic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂). First introduced in 1976, CZ stones are clear and hard but can be produced in a variety of colors. They are affordable, durable, and closely resemble diamonds in appearance.
Moissanite is a rare gemstone composed of silicon carbide (SiC). Naturally occurring moissanite is extremely rare, so the stones used in jewelry are lab-created.
Originally mistaken for diamond in 1893, moissanite was later identified as silicon carbide. It has since been found in meteorites and rare rock formations. Synthetic moissanite became commercially viable after the artificial creation of silicon carbide by Edward G. Acheson.
| Property | Moissanite | Cubic Zirconia (CZ) | Natural Diamond |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9.25–9.5 | 8–8.5 | 10 |
| Durability | Excellent | Moderate | Excellent |
| Sparkle | High (Rainbow) | Good (White) | High |
| Color Range | Limited | Wide | Wide |
| Price | $$ | $ | $$$$ |
At Octa Pearl, we believe in offering beauty with a conscience. That’s why we use only lab-grown moissanite and CZ stones—never mined diamonds. These stones provide luxury, longevity, and ethical peace of mind.
By choosing these alternatives, you're not only embracing stunning jewelry but also supporting sustainability and fair sourcing in the industry.
