HOME | April’s Radiant Gems: Diamond, Moissanite, Cubic Zirconia, and Crystal Jewelry Guide

April’s Radiant Gems: Diamond, Moissanite, Cubic Zirconia, and Crystal Jewelry Guide

Diamonds are renowned for their sparkling internal fire and are among the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Those born in April have the privilege of calling this scintillating gem their birthstone, which symbolizes clarity and strength. The diamond’s name is derived from the Greek word “adamas,” meaning “invincible” & "unbreakable".

Historically, diamonds were first gathered from the rivers and streams of India and were traded as early as the fourth century BCE. They were coveted by royalty and the wealthy, eventually becoming fashionable accessories for Europe’s elite in the 1400s1. The first recorded diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximillian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy in 1477.

Diamonds are not only a symbol of enduring love but also believed to have protective and healing properties. They were once thought to be an antidote to poison and to provide protection against the plague. Over the centuries, diamonds have been associated with longevity, strength, beauty, and happiness.

In addition to being the birthstone for April, diamonds are traditionally gifted on the 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries. Today, the diamond engagement ring is a near-universal symbol of love and commitment.

The diamond’s timeless charm and the fascinating history of its origins make it a truly special gemstone for those born in April.

Along with diamonds, moissanite, cubic zirconia, and crystal are popular choices for jewelry, especially as alternatives to diamonds. Here’s a description that includes these gemstones:

Moissanite is a gemstone born from the stars. Originally discovered in a meteorite, it is now primarily lab-created. Moissanite is known for its dazzling sparkle and is quite tough, ranking just below diamonds on the hardness scale. It has a unique crystal structure made of silicon carbide, which gives it a hexagonal lattice.

 This structure contributes to its brilliant fire and makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and sparkling gemstone.

Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone made of zirconium dioxide crystals. It was first discovered in its natural state in the 1930s but is now produced in laboratories. CZ has a cubic crystal structure and is known for its high brilliance and clarity, making it a popular diamond simulant. While not as hard as moissanite, cubic zirconia is still a durable choice for jewelry, with a hardness rating of 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale.

Crystal generally refers to clear, colorless glass that can be cut and polished to resemble a gemstone. It is often used in jewelry to mimic the appearance of diamonds due to its clarity and sparkle. However, crystal is softer than both moissanite and cubic zirconia, making it less ideal for pieces that will be worn daily.

Each of these gemstones offers a unique combination of beauty and durability, making them excellent choices for April birthstone jewelry. Whether you prefer the star-born brilliance of moissanite, the diamond-like shine of cubic zirconia, or the clear luster of crystal, there’s a gemstone that suits every style and budget.