A manufactured stone that resembles a diamond, but is composed of different materials. These materials are chosen for their visual similarity to genuine diamonds, providing a diamond-like appearance at a significantly lower cost. Examples include cubic zirconia (CZ) and moissanite.
The popularity of these stones stems from their affordability and ethical sourcing. They offer an accessible alternative to mined diamonds, bypassing concerns related to conflict diamonds and environmental impact. Historically, they have served as placeholders or temporary replacements, but are now widely accepted and valued for their own merits.