Not everyone has access to diamonds and this is because of many reasons, such as its high cost, rarity, and some people say it has a poor investment value. Regardless, the beauty and brilliance of diamonds is undeniable. In fact, it is believed to be the most sought after and shiny gemstone around the world.
While it is inaccessible, there are a number of natural gemstones that have a diamond look. At the same time, there are lab-made diamonds. But in this post, we will explore the natural stones that look like diamonds.
Here they are:
| Natural Gemstones | Value | Rarity | Properties |
| White Sapphire | Expensive | Very rare | Durable and shiny |
| White Topaz | Cheap | Not so rare | Beautiful sparkle and high brilliance |
| White Zircon | Cheap | Not rare | Extremely beautiful and shiny |
| Quartz | Cheap | Not rare | Can be polished to look better than some diamond |
| Goshenite | Cheap | Not so rare | Extremely durable |
White Sapphire
Sapphire is commonly known to have blue color, but that’s not its only color. There is white sapphire and the interesting fact is that it serves as one of the best diamond substitutes. That’s not all; it’s also cheaper than the blue sapphire. While white sapphire has excellent beauty and brilliance, it doesn’t come close to diamond’s sparkle. Hence, the difference between the sapphire and a diamond will still be noticed.
Pros
- It’s the best diamond alternative for people on a budget
- Has a softer appearance than diamond
- Creates a dazzling effect when properly cut
Cons
- It doesn’t shine as bright as diamond
- Diamond has more clarity and transparency
White Topaz
Just like sapphire, topaz is often associated with blue color, and sometimes with yellow and red. Whereas, it can come in various colors, including white. White topaz is another diamond substitute stone with beautiful sparkle and brilliance, but it’s unmatched to diamond’s dispersion. In fact, it’s plagued with some other shortcomings like chipping over time and its facet edges wearing down. But on the bright side, it’s very cheap and easy to replace when it deteriorates.
Pros
- Very affordable compared to diamond
- Easy to replace
- More environmentally friendly to source
Cons
- The diamond substitute gemstone doesn’t match diamond’s fire and brilliance
- Not as hard as diamond
- Deteriorates more easily
White Zircon
Unlike synthetic cubic zirconia that is man-made, white zircon is a natural gemstone. For a long time in history, it has been serving as a diamond alternative moissanite and this is because of its excellent brilliance and dispersion. When it comes to looks and appearance, white zircon is the best alternative to a diamond. Also, it is not rare and it’s very affordable. But in terms of strength and durability, it is very fragile. It tends to chip and wear off easily.
Pros
- It is one of the best diamond alternatives moissanite
- Very easy to replace
- Excellent light dispersion
Cons
- Its fragility makes it deteriorate easily
- High sensitivity to heat
- Not very clear and transparent as diamond
Quartz
As one of the most common gemstones around the world, quartz (sometimes called rock crystal) makes an inexpensive diamond alternative gemstone. However, its beauty is in no way compared to a well-cut diamond. At the same time, quartz can be polished so well to appear better than a mediocre diamond. But no matter how well it is polished, over time, it will accumulate scratch, which reveals its real identity as just an alternative.
Pros
- This diamond substitute moissanite can be polished to look better than some diamonds
- Very affordable and easy to replace
Cons
- Tends to accumulate scratch and stain
- Less durable than a diamond
Goshenite
Goshenite belongs to the mineral family of BERYL, which consist of other gemstones like emerald, aquamarine, and morganite. Goshenite is a white or colorless durable gemstone that can serve as a diamond substitute gemstone. It has a large white stone that’s cheap and lasts for a long time without wearing off. However, it doesn’t shine as brightly as diamond.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Easy to replace
- Extremely durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear
Cons
- Less brilliance and fire compared to diamond
- Less clarity and transparency
Conclusion
With the myths and unavailability surrounding diamonds, a couple of natural gemstones that appear and can serve the same functions as diamonds are used. While many people will like engagement rings and jewelries that have diamond stone, these other natural gemstones are used as alternatives.
The best substitutes for diamond gemstone are white sapphire, white topaz, white zircon, quartz, and goshenite. These gemstones have excellent properties that replicate the features of diamond seamlessly. However, they are still different, and the common difference noticed is the sparkle and durability.
