Iced Out Cuban Link Chains: Diamonds, Moissanite and Cubic Zirconia

An iced out Cuban link chain is the boldest version of an already bold style. Every link is set with stones, so the chain catches light from every angle. Iced Cubans range from inexpensive fashion pieces to custom diamond chains worth more than a house. The difference lies mainly in the stones, the setting and the metal underneath.

This guide explains your options and what to look for before you buy.

The four main stone options

Natural diamonds

Natural diamonds are mined, extremely hard (10 on the Mohs scale) and the most expensive option. Iced chains with natural diamonds are usually described by total carat weight, color and clarity, for example “10 carats total, G-H color, VS clarity”. Diamonds keep their sparkle indefinitely and do not cloud or scratch in normal wear.

Best for: heirloom pieces, buyers for whom natural origin matters, and those with a large budget.

Lab-grown diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically and optically the same as natural diamonds, but created in a laboratory. They cost considerably less than natural diamonds of similar quality. To the eye, and even to most standard diamond testers, they are diamonds.

Best for: buyers who want real diamond sparkle and durability at a lower price.

Moissanite

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone made of silicon carbide. It is very hard (9.25 on the Mohs scale), so it resists scratches well, and it has more fire, meaning more rainbow flashes, than diamond. Many moissanite stones pass basic diamond testers, which can be confusing; advanced testers tell them apart.

Best for: a durable, very sparkly iced look at a fraction of diamond prices. Moissanite has become the most popular choice for mid-range iced Cuban links.

Cubic zirconia (CZ)

Cubic zirconia is an inexpensive synthetic stone. It looks bright when new but is softer (around 8 on the Mohs scale) and can scratch and cloud over time, especially with daily wear. CZ iced chains are often made with plated brass or silver rather than solid gold.

Best for: fashion pieces, occasional wear and trying the iced look on a budget.

Comparison table

	Natural diamond	Lab diamond	Moissanite	Cubic zirconia
Hardness	10	10	9.25	~8
Sparkle	Brilliant	Brilliant	Very fiery	Bright when new
Long-term clarity	Excellent	Excellent	Excellent	Can cloud
Relative price	Highest	High	Moderate	Low

Setting styles

How the stones are held matters as much as the stones themselves.

• Prong setting: small metal claws hold each stone. It lets in lots of light for sparkle, but prongs can snag on clothing and loosen over time.
• Pavé setting: many small stones set close together, held by tiny beads of metal. It creates a continuous sparkle across the surface of each link.
• Channel setting: stones sit in a groove between two metal walls. Very secure, less snagging, slightly less light.
• Bezel setting: a metal rim surrounds each stone. Very secure but less common on Cubans.

Check that stones are level, evenly spaced and firmly held. Gently run a fingernail over the setting; it should feel smooth, without stones shifting or prongs sticking up.

The metal underneath

Iced Cubans are made in solid gold, sterling silver, plated brass and stainless steel. The metal affects value, durability and how securely stones stay set. Solid gold holds settings well and keeps its color. Plated brass is common in cheap CZ chains; the plating wears and the settings can loosen. Sterling silver is a popular middle option for moissanite chains, often plated in yellow or white gold.

Weight and comfort

Iced Cubans are heavy, because the stones and extra metal for settings add weight. Wide iced chains can be very heavy in solid gold. Consider comfort if you plan to wear one for long periods.

What to check before buying

1. Stone type stated clearly: diamond, lab diamond, moissanite or CZ. Vague terms like “simulated diamond” or “iced stones” usually mean CZ.
2. Total carat weight: for diamond and moissanite chains.
3. Stone quality: color and clarity grades for diamonds; color grade for moissanite (D-E-F colorless is typical for good quality).
4. Metal and karat: solid gold, silver or plated base metal.
5. Certification: natural and lab diamonds above a certain size may come with a grading report; moissanite often comes with a manufacturer certificate.
6. Clasp: a sturdy box clasp with safety latches.
7. Warranty: some sellers replace lost stones for a period.

Caring for an iced chain

• Clean gently with warm water, mild soap and a soft toothbrush to remove oils and dirt from behind the stones.
• Avoid ultrasonic cleaners on CZ or plated chains, and check settings before using one on solid gold.
• Store it flat in a lined box, separate from other jewelry, so stones do not scratch other pieces.
• Have the settings checked by a jeweler once a year.
• Take it off for sleep, sports and heavy work, when knocks can loosen stones.

Frequently asked questions

Will moissanite pass a diamond tester?

Many basic thermal testers read moissanite as diamond. Testers that also measure electrical conductivity can tell them apart.

Do iced chains lose stones?

They can, especially with lower-quality settings or heavy wear. Annual checks and gentle care greatly reduce the risk.

Is moissanite a fake diamond?

It is not a diamond, but it is a genuine gemstone in its own right, with its own properties. It is fair to call it a diamond alternative.

Are cheap iced chains worth it?

For occasional fashion wear, yes. For daily wear or long-term ownership, moissanite or diamond in silver or gold is a better investment.

How many carats are in a typical iced Cuban link?

It varies widely with width and length. Slim iced chains may have a few carats in total, while wide, fully iced chains can carry dozens of carats spread over many small stones.