Affordable Moissanite vs 5A Zircon: Durability, Brilliance & Price Comparison

When it comes to choosing a diamond alternative, Moissanite and 5A Zircon (Cubic Zirconia) are two of the most popular contenders. Both offer sparkling beauty without the high price tag of natural diamonds, making them appealing options for engagement rings, fashion jewelry, and special occasion pieces. But how do these two stones really compare when it comes to durability, brilliance, and price?

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the differences between Moissanite and 5A Zircon, helping you make an informed decision based on your budget, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences.

What Is Moissanite?

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone made of silicon carbide. Originally discovered in a meteor crater, it’s extremely rare in nature, so nearly all moissanite on the market is synthetic. It’s known for its exceptional fire, brilliance, and durability, often outperforming diamonds in visual sparkle.

What Is 5A Zircon (Cubic Zirconia)?

5A Zircon, often marketed as the highest grade of Cubic Zirconia (CZ), is a man-made gemstone made from zirconium dioxide. It’s engineered to imitate the appearance of diamonds but is softer and less durable than both diamonds and moissanite. The “5A” designation refers to its cut, clarity, and brilliance, often used in premium fashion jewelry.

1. Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?

Durability is a key factor for jewelry you plan to wear daily—especially engagement rings or wedding bands.

Moissanite Durability

• Mohs Hardness: 9.25
• Toughness: Very high
• Resistant to scratches and chips

Moissanite is one of the hardest gemstones available, second only to diamonds. It withstands everyday wear and tear, making it ideal for long-term use. Its toughness and resistance to scratches make it suitable for active lifestyles.

5A Zircon Durability

• Mohs Hardness: 8–8.5 (varies slightly by brand)
• Toughness: Moderate to low
• Prone to scratches, clouding, and chipping

Although 5A Zircon ranks well on the hardness scale, it’s significantly less durable than moissanite. It’s more prone to scratching, especially with daily wear, and can become cloudy over time due to exposure to skin oils, cleaning chemicals, and air.

Winner: Moissanite

If you’re looking for a stone that lasts years—or decades—without noticeable wear, moissanite is the clear winner.

2. Brilliance: Which One Sparkles More?

Sparkle is one of the most sought-after qualities in any gemstone. But brilliance and fire come from more than just cut—they also depend on the stone’s refractive index.

Moissanite Brilliance

• Refractive Index: 2.65–2.69
• Birefringence: Yes (causes a double sparkle effect)
• Fire: Higher than diamond

Moissanite is renowned for its intense brilliance and fire—some say it even outshines diamonds. Its high refractive index and unique double refraction cause it to sparkle with rainbow flashes under both natural and artificial light.

5A Zircon Brilliance

• Refractive Index: 2.15–2.18
• Birefringence: None
• Fire: Moderate

5A Zircon offers a convincing diamond-like sparkle when new. However, its brilliance can fade over time due to surface scratches and buildup. The sparkle tends to be whiter than moissanite, with fewer rainbow-like flashes.

Winner: Moissanite

In terms of sparkle, fire, and brilliance, moissanite is generally considered superior, though some may prefer the more “subtle” shine of 5A Zircon for a natural diamond look.

3. Price: Which One Is More Affordable?

Budget is often the deciding factor when choosing between moissanite and 5A zircon.

Moissanite Price

• Price per carat: $300–$600 (depending on size and brand)
• Cost: Less than a diamond, but more than CZ
• Long-term value: High resale potential

Though pricier than zircon, moissanite is still much more affordable than a comparable diamond. For example, a 1-carat moissanite might cost around $400, compared to $5,000 for a 1-carat diamond.

5A Zircon Price

• Price per carat: $20–$50
• Cost: Extremely affordable
• Long-term value: Low (not typically resellable)

5A Zircon is much more budget-friendly. It’s a great option for costume or occasional-use jewelry. However, its lower durability and tendency to lose luster make it less appealing as a long-term investment.

Winner: 5A Zircon (Short-Term), Moissanite (Long-Term)

If you’re shopping on a tight budget, 5A Zircon wins. But for those looking for better value over time, moissanite is the smarter buy.

Summary Table: Moissanite vs 5A Zircon

Which Should You Choose?

Your ideal choice depends on your personal priorities:

• Choose Moissanite if you want a long-lasting, high-sparkle, low-maintenance stone that can serve as a diamond substitute for engagement or daily wear.
• Choose 5A Zircon if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, short-term option for fashion jewelry or occasional wear.

Final Thoughts

Both moissanite and 5A zircon have their unique advantages. Moissanite stands out in terms of brilliance, durability, and long-term value, making it the superior option for anyone seeking a serious diamond alternative. On the other hand, 5A zircon offers an accessible entry point into the world of sparkly gemstones—perfect for those who want glamour without a big financial commitment.

When selecting between the two, think about how often you’ll wear the jewelry, your lifestyle, and your long-term expectations. The right choice is the one that fits your needs, style, and budget, both are affordable to buy.