Synthetic simulants include glass, cubic zirconium (Cz)and moissanite.
The two most popular natural simulants are white zircon and white sapphire.
Well faceted white zircon can rival diamond in its brilliance and fire, and is highly regarded in this respect. It was used exensively in the 19th century as a diamond replacement.
Zircon a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs Scale and is most often faceted as a brilliant cut stone.
White sapphires are quite rare as they are completely untouched by trace elements. White sapphires are excellent alternatives to diamonds as they are less expensive and very durable, at 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
They do, however, lack the brilliance and fire of diamond and should be cleaned regularly with a soft toothbrush to maintain their shine and sparkle.
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