Diamond or cubic zirconia? Just about any single gal on the street will say with an undeniable conviction, "Diamonds, of course!" But show her two different engagement rings and ask her to pick out the fake and she will likely have difficulty. Truth be told, unless you are trained to determine the difference between a cubic zirconia gemstone and a diamond gemstone, odds are you too will have some degree of trouble.
So that brings us to the question, which gemstone, diamond or cubic zirconia, makes a better engagement ring? The answer to that really depends on your preferences and what you can afford. Both a diamond and cubic zirconia are beautiful in any ring setting.
Cubic zirconia closely mimics a diamond gemstone in that, like a diamond, it is resistant to chipping and can be made many colors in the same way a diamond can. It is not uncommon to see pink, blue and yellow diamonds, along with cubic zirconia engagement rings in the same color. As time goes on, cubic zirconia becomes more and more popular because of its durability and versatility.
However, there are differences to a diamond engagement ring that, in some minds, leave a cubic zirconia ring in the dust. Unlike a diamond, there is less sparkle and fire in a cubic zirconia gemstone. The stone is heavier as well. If you are looking for a larger engagement ring gemstone but recoil with the price tag that comes with diamonds, then a cubic zirconia engagement ring allows you to buy more stone for your dollar. A cubic zirconia stone is also entirely manmade, so you won't get the flaws that a natural diamond gemstone has, but, again, if you are going for appearances, a cubic zirconia ring can be made completely colorless, which gives the appearance of a rarer diamond stone without the price tag.
Ultimately, you have to decide if your engagement ring is more than a symbol of your love and the commitment you are about to make. If it doesn't matter what you wear on your finger, then your promise to love each other will shine through the sparkle of any engagement ring.
However, no matter how much that cubic zirconia looks like a diamond, you should tell her what it is. Pretending it is a real diamond sets a poor precedent for honesty in your relationship. If she knows your funds are limited, then she will be happy, and you can always promise to follow up with the real deal later.
 | Buying an engagement ring is a symbol of the commitment you are making to your bride-to-be. Different styles, options and choices are available for every budget, so spend moderately and go for a style that suits the one you love. |
 | When people shop for jewelry or rings, they often look at the gem cut before anything else. Unfortunately, they can confuse a gemstone's cut with its shape. |
 | There are few things more important to a newly engaged woman than her new engagement ring. It serves as a reminder to both you and the rest of the world of your happy intentions. |
If you have an engagement ring burning a hole in your pocket...if you're about to pop the proverbial question...trust me, this is no time to be shy. |
Life has a few really big expenses: home, car, and engagement rings. Of them all, the most terrifying experience can be getting the engagement ring. Beyond the fact that you might be worrying about what her answer will be, most of us know a lot more about homes or cars than we do about diamonds. |
