Cubic Zirconia: The Story
Undoubtedly the best diamond imitation substitute available today,
Cubic Zirconia has been established as an affordable diamond replacement as well as an important fashion staple in
costume jewelry.
The CZ story began in 1937, when the cubic form of zirconium oxide (CZ for short), was discovered by two German mineralogists. It wasn't until the 1970's, however, when Soviet scientists learned how to "grow" this mineral in a laboratory, that it gradually became popular with jewelry designers.
CZ took off in the 1980's when Swarovsk & Co., a world-reknowned Austrian producer of leaded crystal, began producing
cubic zirconia for mass consumption.
Recently, new developments in CZ production have led to a sparkling new array of CZs in every color of the rainbow.
Gemologists agree that Cubic Zirconia is the finest diamond substitute because it comes closer than any other gem material to matching the characteristics of a diamond. Most people, even trained gemologists, cannot tell the difference with the naked eye.
Like a diamond?
In appearance,
cubic zirconia looks almost exactly like a good quality diamond, although there
are some slight differences.
Fire and Brilliance
CZ has slightly less brilliance (sparkle) than diamond, while having more fire (flashes of rainbow colors). The overall effect is so similar to diamond that trained gemologists often require special equipment to tell them apart.
Hardness
There are very few substances on earth harder than CZ. With a hardness rating of 8.5, CZ comes closer to matching diamond's perfect 10.
Weight
CZ is about 75% heavier than diamond. As such, a CZ's size is referred to in carats only as in comparison to diamonds. CZs are more accurately measured in millimeters, referring to the diameter. (A 6.5 mm cubic zirconia is equal in size to a one-carat diamond and actually weighs about 1.75 carats.)
Clarity
Because CZ is grown in a laboratory in a controlled environment, any crystals that fall short of perfect clarity are simply not used. The finest CZ gems are perfect in clarity.
Cut
The finest CZ is cut to exacting tolerances, according to the proportions demanded in fine diamond cutting. Finely cut CZs will have a polished girdle and more fire.
Caring for Your CZ Jewelry
- Cubic Zirconia that's set in Karat-gold or sterling silver, without rhodium plating, can be worn everyday. Please see our section entitled What is Rhodium? to get a better idea of how to take care of jewelry with CZ gems as well as rhodium electroplating.
- While almost as hard as diamond, CZ is more brittle. Take precautions against this, such as removing CZ jewelry when doing heavy work. Even a diamond can chip if it's hit the right way.
- It's best to remove your CZ jewelry before showering or cleaning your jewelry, as soap can leave a sparkle-dimming film. Similarly, remove jewelry when applying makeup and face or body powder, as these products can dull a gem's shine.
