Cubic Zirconias or Diamonds? What is the difference?

What is the difference between cubic zirconias and diamonds? While both look much alike, there are some subtle differences in appearance and hardness and some profound. One of the most profound differences is that cubic zirconias act as thermal insulators where as diamonds are among the most efficient thermal conductors.

Cubic zirconias are manufactured and are relatively low cost.  Diamonds are created over thousands of years in a natural process and are valued more highly.

While some people have a brilliant appearance, they, too, may act more like cubic zirconias or diamonds.  What is real and what is just for appearance?  These are challenges in the business world, in politics, and in the academic world.

Keeping in mind the difference between being a thermal insulator and a thermal conductor, some people seem to stop the flow of ideas and energy (acting as insulators) while others almost seem to be a catalyst that can speed them along and guide them (acting as conductors).

We may all have elements that act like cubic zirconias and others that act like diamonds.  We need to keep choosing to be conductors rather than insulators more of the time.