Cubic zirconia can be a good choice for earrings, depending on your preferences and budget. Cubic zirconia earrings are much cheaper than diamond earrings, but they also have less brilliance, durability, and value. Cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone made of zirconium dioxide, while diamonds are natural or lab-grown gemstones composed of carbon atoms.
Cubic zirconia has a high refractive index and dispersion, which means it can sparkle more than a diamond, but it also tends to look more artificial and glassy. Cubic zirconia is relatively hard, 8–8.5 on the Mohs scale, but it can still scratch and chip easily, especially if exposed to heat or chemicals.
Cubic zirconia earrings may lose their luster and clarity over time, while diamonds are the hardest gemstone and can last forever with proper care. Cubic zirconia earrings are available in different grades of quality, but there is no standard or guarantee for these grades. Cubic zirconia earrings are also mass produced, so they are not unique or rare like diamonds.
If you are looking for some sparkle on a dime, cubic zirconia earrings may be a good option for you. They can look similar to diamonds from a distance and they are easy to replace if they get damaged or lost.
However, if you are looking for a more valuable, durable, and beautiful gemstone, you may want to consider diamonds or other natural gemstones for your earrings. Diamonds are more expensive, but they also have more fire, brilliance, and scintillation than cubic zirconia. Diamonds are also a symbol of love, commitment, and status, which may be important for some people. Diamonds can be natural or lab-grown, with laboratory-grown diamonds being more affordable and sustainable than natural diamonds.
