Let’s face it, April's birthstone, the diamond, is renowned for its unparalleled brilliance and strength, making it one of the most desirable gemstones in the world. I can say without a doubt, it’s my fav. Known for its exquisite beauty and the aspect of eternal love it symbolizes, diamonds have captivated hearts for centuries. However, while diamonds are stunning, there are excellent alternatives that capture similar beauty without breaking the bank. Just the other day, I was telling my youngest child that they should make diamonds with my ashes after I’m gone.
Yeah, living on as a man-made diamond w/ my family is something I can really get behind!
While I hope to one day be able to properly showcase diamonds, today is not that time. Therefore, in this post we’ll explore these dazzling diamond alternatives: quartz crystals, cubic zirconia, and white topaz.
The Legend of Diamonds
Before we dive into those alternatives, let’s first take a look at diamonds. These precious stones hold a legacy that spans back to ancient civilizations. Often referred to as the "King of Gems," diamonds have been prized for their lustrous sparkle and cultural significance. From symbolizing perpetual love in engagement rings to being revered for their supposed mystical powers, diamonds continue to capture the imaginations of those who encounter them.
In ancient Greece, diamonds were considered the tears of gods or splinters from falling stars. The word "diamond" itself comes from the Greek word "adamas," meaning "unbreakable" or "invincible," highlighting the stone’s unmatched hardness, ranking a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale.
Discovering Diamond Alternatives
While diamonds are undeniably spectacular, other gemstones offer stunning alternatives, mimicking the visual appeal of diamonds while offering unique benefits.
Quartz Crystals
Quartz is abundant and versatile, found in a variety of colors including a clear form that can resemble a diamond. Known for its healing properties, clear quartz is believed to balance and revitalize the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of life. It’s an affordable option for those seeking the brilliance of diamonds without the associated cost. Within the world of jewelry, quartz can be cut and polished to achieve a radiant, diamond-like appearance, making it a charming choice for various styles of adornment.
Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia is renowned for its close visual resemblance to diamonds. Developed in the 1970s, it quickly became a popular choice for jewelry due to its affordability and versatility. Unlike diamonds, cubic zirconia is flawless, which gives it an appealing, perfect sparkle. Although softer than diamonds, with a rating of 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, cubic zirconia provides considerable durability for everyday wear, making it a widely chosen alternative for luxurious-looking jewelry.
White Topaz
White topaz offers another exquisite option, bearing a natural radiance akin to diamonds. As a genuine gemstone, white topaz holds its own distinct charm and beauty. Although it is less expensive than diamonds, its brilliance and ability to reflect light beautifully have made it a favored choice for individuals seeking a natural stone alternative to diamonds. White topaz ranks 8 on the Mohs scale, offering a good level of hardness and durability for your treasured jewelry pieces.
You already know that my monthly collections this year are following birthstones. And even though I don’t work with diamonds (yet 😉), I think you will love the pieces I DID make using the 3 alternatives above. Our April Birthstone Collection is ready for you to pick your favorite! Definitely a more elegant collection for sure.
Until next time….
Dianna
