How to Select a Right Setting for Diamond Engagement Ring

Cubic zirconia and cultured diamonds are less expensive than mined diamonds.Cubic zirconia is similar to natural diamonds in some ways, but also varies in many respects. Cubic zirconia is quite hard and since it is synthesized, it is optically flawless. clear white.Although not nearly as hard as mined or cultured diamonds, it is still quite durable and is a less expensive alternative to natural diamonds.Cultured diamond is another popular alternative to mined diamonds. Cultured diamonds, which are often called lab grown diamonds, are created to be optically, physically and chemically identical to natural diamonds. Cultured diamonds are generally less expensive than natural diamonds, but they are still much more expensive than cubic zirconia or diamond hybrid. Cultured diamonds can come in various colors, but the most popular stones are brilliant colorless white.One variety of natural diamond alternative which has specific advantages over the other choices is the diamond hybrid. A crystalline core is covered with a layer of diamond to create a diamond hybrid. The resulting effect is brilliant, creating a very hard gem with an index refraction and light dispersion which is very similar to that of a natural diamond. These hybrid diamonds do not discolor over time, and when cut by an expert and polished, are absolutely brilliant. Hybrid diamonds are less expensive than natural or traditional cultured diamonds, although they are more expensive than cubic zirconia.