Understanding the Beauty and Value of Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia has been a popular choice for jewelry lovers seeking the sparkle of diamonds without the high price tag for many decades. This synthetic gemstone offers a stunning appearance and impressive durability, making it a practical alternative for many. But what exactly is cubic zirconia, and why does it hold such appeal?

Close-up of cubic zirconia in silver ring

Why Blog About Cubic Zirconia?

I enjoy all gems and while I rarely facet man-made materials, CZ is an exception It's a very colorful option and brighter than diamonds. What's more, it's difficult to mistake for a natural material (unlike synthetic sapphire, ruby, emerald and quartz) and therefore unlikely to be part of any fraud, intentional or otherwise. Yes, this is a site dedicated to fine jewelry and many people wouldn't consider CZ suitable for such work. However, there are devotees of CZ out there and I would urge any reader to consider that inexpensive does not necessarily mean lacking in beauty.

What Is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a man-made crystal created from zirconium dioxide. It was first developed in the 1970s as a diamond simulant, designed to mimic the appearance of natural diamonds. Unlike diamonds, which are formed naturally over millions of years, cubic zirconia is produced in laboratories using controlled processes. This allows for consistent quality and clarity.

CZ is colorless by default ,but can be made in many colors by adding trace elements during production. Its fire closely resembles that of diamond and it is actually brighter than diamond, which is why it is often used in jewelry pieces that require a dazzling look without the cost.

How Cubic Zirconia Compares to Diamonds

Many people wonder how cubic zirconia stacks up against diamonds. Here are some key differences and similarities:

• Appearance: CZ has a higher refractive index than diamond, which makes it brighter than diamond, and it tends to have more "fire" or colorful flashes than diamond, which can sometimes make it look less natural to trained eyes.

• Hardness: Diamonds score a 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them the hardest natural material. Cubic zirconia scores around 8 to 8.5, which means it is durable, but very slightly prone to scratches over time. This hardness difference also means it can be cut in a fraction of the time it takes to cut a diamond.

• Weight: CZ is denser than diamonds, so a cubic zirconia stone will weigh about 50% more than a diamond of the same size.

• Price: Cubic zirconia is significantly less expensive than diamonds, often costing just a fraction of the price. This makes it accessible for those who want the look of diamond jewelry without the investment.

• Color: CZ is avaialable in at least a dozen colors. Ever tried pricing a red diamond? If you could find one, you couldn't afford it. However, red CZ can be readily obtained by any jeweler

  
  

Understanding these differences helps buyers make informed decisions based on their priorities, whether that is durability, appearance, or budget.

Popular Uses of Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia is widely used in various types of jewelry due to its affordability and beauty. Some common applications include:

• Engagement rings: For couples seeking a budget-friendly option, CZ engagement rings offer a sparkling alternative.

• Fashion jewelry: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings often feature colored cubic zirconia to add shine without high costs.

• Costume jewelry: CZ is perfect for pieces designed for occasional wear or trendy styles.

• Accent stones: Designers use cubic zirconia as side stones or accents around larger gems to enhance overall sparkle or to achieve a color that would be cost-prohibitive in a natural gem.

• I use it to make proof cuts of complex gem designs I've never tried - a mistake in CZ is less expensive than possibly making an error in a natural stone.

Cubic zirconia stud earrings showing a few of the available colors

Caring for Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

While cubic zirconia is very durable, it still requires proper care to maintain its shine and clarity. Here are some tips:

• Cleaning: Use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean CZ jewelry regularly. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone or setting.

• Storage: Store cubic zirconia pieces separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.

• Avoid impact: Although CZ is hard, it can chip or crack if dropped or hit hard.

  
  

Following these simple steps helps keep cubic zirconia jewelry looking new for years.

The Value of Cubic Zirconia Today

Cubic zirconia offers excellent value for those who want beautiful, affordable jewelry. It allows people to enjoy the sparkle and style of diamond-like stones without the financial burden. This accessibility has made CZ a favorite for gift-giving, fashion statements, and special occasions.

Moreover, cubic zirconia is an ethical choice for buyers concerned about the environmental and social impacts of diamond mining. Since CZ is lab-created, it avoids many of the issues linked to natural diamond extraction.

However, synthetic diamonds now offer everything natural diamonds offer at about 1/3 the cost of natural diamonds (currently). Truthfully, I see the use of colorless CZ as a diamond simulant decreasing as synthetic diamond becomes more affordable. Nonetheless, as of the time of this writing, colored synthetic diamond manufacture has significant obstacles to overcome before achieving viability, so colored CZ will remain a excellent option for some time to come.

Cubic zirconia pendant necklace

Final Thoughts on Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia combines beauty, affordability, and versatility in a way few gemstones can match. It offers a sparkling alternative to diamonds that suits many budgets and styles. Whether you want a dazzling engagement ring, everyday jewelry, or a colorful accessory, cubic zirconia provides a practical and attractive option.