Is cubic zirconia fake?
Daniel Santos
Updated on February 20, 2026
Is a Cubic Zirconia Real? A cubic zirconia is a real cubic zirconia, but it is not a real diamond. There are a few types of stones that are used as diamond simulants, but cubic zirconia is by far the most common and the most realistic.
Is cubic zirconia good quality?
Because cubic zirconia is made in a lab, it lacks the natural imperfections that diamonds have. A flawless diamond is incredibly rare and, thus, incredibly expensive. While some may regard cubic zirconia as flawless, they're usually considered “too perfect” or fake-looking.Is cubic zirconia considered cheap?
Price. Cubic zirconia is very inexpensive, since it's synthetic and mass-produced. A cut and polished one carat cubic zirconia stone will cost $20 and a similar two carat stone will cost about $30.Can a cubic zirconia pass as a real diamond?
No. Cubic Zirconia (or CZ) does not have high enough thermal conductivity to pass. So, when you test a CZ with a diamond tester, it will not show as diamond. In fact, distinguishing CZ from diamond is one of the most important uses of thermal conductivity pen testers.Will cubic zirconia turn green?
Authentic Cubic Zirconia does not turn your skin green; however, a low-quality imitation might be because it has brass and copper inclusions. Some Cubic Zirconia has gold, silver, or rhodium plating on the bands, which means it tarnishes and makes skin green when the plating wears off.The Story of Cubic Zirconia: Far More than just Fake Diamond
Can you wear cubic zirconia in the shower?
Cubic zirconias look like real diamonds, but they're not. They lack the toughness and resistance of diamonds. It's strongly recommended that you take off your cubic zirconia jewelry before you step in the shower.How can you tell a fake diamond?
Lay the stone onto the dot with the flat side down. Through the pointed end of the diamond, look down onto the paper. If you see a circular reflection inside the gemstone, the stone is fake. If you cannot see the dot or a reflection in the stone, then the diamond is real.Do cubic zirconia lose their sparkle?
An accumulation of surface scratches will reduce a cubic zirconia's brilliant shine over time. Any chemical that comes into contact with CZ can cause it to look dull and lose its sparkle. Thankfully, there are some easy ways you can clean your jewelry to help restore it to its original condition.How can you tell a cubic zirconia?
Examine the edges to see if they are smooth to indicate cubic zirconia. Use a jeweler's loupe with 10x magnification to look at your piece. The flat, geometric surfaces, or facets, of your piece will be much rounder and smoother if it is cubic zirconia. Diamonds have sharp, hard facets.Is it OK to have a cubic zirconia engagement ring?
Perfect for daily wear!These two gemstones can be worn every day without any worry of damage, scratch or wear and tear. All you need to do is ensure that the stone setting is done properly. If you need Cubic Zirconia engagement rings that look real, an online search can get you some reputable jeweler brands.