American Diamond vs Real Diamond: How to Identify the Real One

Q: Which diamond glows more, an American diamond or a real diamond?

American diamonds tend to show stronger rainbow-like sparkle due to higher dispersion, while real diamonds offer a more natural brilliance with greater depth and light performance.

Q: Do American diamonds last as long as real diamonds?

No, American diamonds are generally less durable than real diamonds. They are designed mainly as affordable fashion jewellery rather than long-term, everyday wear pieces.

Q: Are American diamonds suitable for engagement rings?

American diamonds can be used for budget-friendly or temporary engagement rings, but they lack the durability required for daily wear. Natural or lab-grown diamonds are better suited for long-term use.

You must be wondering, a diamond is a diamond. So how does it matter whether it’s a real diamond or an American one? What does an American diamond even mean, and how is it any different from a real diamond? Well, here’s how.

Choosing Between Sparkle and Substance

Not all that glitters is gold. Similarly, not everything that’s called a diamond is a diamond. Whereas when referring to the term ‘American Diamond’, most individuals will think it is an actual form of diamond, when indeed it is not a diamond at all.

So how does an American diamond vary from an actual diamond? And how do you, as a customer, tell the difference? This blog breaks down the composition, sparkle, cost, durability and purpose of both American diamonds and real diamonds so that you can make an informed decision before your next jewellery purchase.

What Is an American Diamond?

Despite its name, American Diamond is not a diamond. It is a popular trade name for cubic zirconia, which is a synthetic gemstone made from zirconium oxide.

Key Features of American Diamonds:

American diamond is a man-made product that is manufactured in laboratories.
According to the needs and requirements, American diamonds are often used as diamond simulants.
American diamonds have a high level of sparkle and brilliance.
As compared to real diamonds, American diamonds are significantly cheaper.
They are also commonly known as CZ stones.

Many jewellers often market American diamonds as affordable alternatives to real diamonds. They target a niche audience of budget-conscious buyers.

What Is a Real Diamond?

A real diamond is a gemstone consisting of a pure or near-pure form of carbon. With atoms forming a distinctive structure, a real diamond is either naturally mined or artificially produced with pure carbon kept in a crystal lattice.

Some Key Features of Real Diamonds Include:

They can either be natural or synthetic.
Diamond is known to be the toughest substance on earth with a 10 rating on the Mohs scale.
Their gorgeous shimmery look is desired by many jewellery collectors.

American Diamond vs Real Diamond: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	American Diamond (CZ)	Real Diamond
Composition	Zirconium dioxide	Carbon
Origin	Lab-created	Natural or lab-grown
Hardness (Mohs)	8.5	10
Brilliance	High, but more glass-like	Natural brilliance with depth
Fire (Color Flashes)	More pronounced, rainbow-like	Subtle and elegant
Durability	Prone to scratches over time	Extremely durable
Resale Value	None	Retains or appreciates
Perception	Affordable, imitation	Luxurious, timeless

Price Comparison: Value vs Investment

American diamonds are affordable and ideal for fashion jewellery and short-term usage. They are a fraction of the price of real diamonds. Real diamonds, on the other hand, are long-term investments and tend to have immense sentimental and emotional value.

Durability: Wear & Tear on a Daily Basis

Scratch, heat, and pressure-resistant, diamonds are perfect for daily-wear items such as engagement rings. Compared to genuine diamonds, American diamonds are more likely to be scratched or become cloudy with age. This makes them less ideal for those who want long-lasting pieces of jewellery.

Visual Differences: Can You See the Difference?

As far as the naked eye can perceive, American diamonds can appear identical to real diamonds, at least on initial observation. However, there are certain key differences that separate American diamonds from genuine diamonds:

CZ stones (American diamonds) are not as deep in brilliance and produce more rainbow flash.
Under a magnifying glass, CZ looks perfect – too perfect. Real diamonds have natural inclusions.
Real diamonds refract light differently, offering a unique brilliance that’s hard to replicate.

Ethical and Environmental Impact

Lab-grown American diamonds (CZ) are eco-friendly and conflict-free. This makes them a guilt-free splurge and an environmentally conscious purchase.

Natural diamonds have progressed with conflict-free certifications, and lab-grown diamonds provide a sustainable alternative with the same characteristics.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

If you can afford the splurge and don’t mind a shiny long-term investment, then go for an actual diamond. If you just want to experiment with fashion and have a good time without breaking your bank, American diamonds are a suitable alternative.

Choose American Diamond if:

You are looking for affordable fashion jewellery.
You are not looking for long-time jewellery pieces and just need a temporary ring or accessory.
You’re someone who is looking for conflict-free sparkle on a budget.

Choose A Real Diamond If:

You can afford to splurge on a piece of exquisite jewellery.
You’re looking to buy an engagement ring or an investment piece.
You are someone who values quality and luxury.
If you are looking for durability and long-term sparkle, then you should go for real diamonds.

FAQs

1. Which diamond glows more, an American diamond or a real diamond?

They both glitter in their own unique way. American diamonds have considerably more rainbow-type glitter, while actual diamonds possess a natural sparkle to them which radiates superior light and depth.

2. Do American diamonds last as long as real diamonds?

No, unfortunately they do not. American diamonds are not really known for being long-time jewellery pieces. They are meant to be worn as affordable fashionable accessories but not for longer durations. This is so because American diamonds can scratch, chip and become cloudy over time with regular use.

3. Are American diamonds suitable for engagement rings?

Although they may suffice for temporary or affordable engagement rings, they lack durability and longevity. For daily wear, actual or synthetic diamonds are preferable.

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