Cubic zirconia (CZ), one of the many gemstone alternatives available today, stands out as an eye-catcher in any collection. Sparkling hard and optically flawless – cubic zirconia gems offer all of these attributes at a fraction of the price. Let’s explore what makes CZ so alluring; their advantages may include:.
Versatility in Colour
Cubic zirconia stands out from other diamond simulants by coming in a wide variety of colors, achieved either through adding metals to its growing process or coating the stones with thin layers of metallic oxides. While its hue may not rival that of natural diamonds, its hue remains striking nonetheless and makes an attractive alternative.
Cubic zirconia may appear similar to diamonds at first glance, yet their differences become apparent on closer examination. Gemologists and jewelers trained in distinguishing CZ from real diamonds (especially larger sizes (over 1 carat).
Cubic zirconia differs from natural gemstones in that it typically lacks inclusions and blemishes, creating an appealing uniform appearance for customers. Furthermore, it’s much cheaper than diamonds making it an excellent option as an affordable replacement or repair option when damage or loss are present in an existing diamond ring.
Cubic zirconia rings have long been used as “stand-in” engagement rings to allow customers to safely wear real diamonds while traveling or engaging in high risk activities. While not as durable, cubic zirconia makes an excellent everyday choice that pairs beautifully with precious metals such as sterling silver and stainless steel.
Hardness
CZ gemstones offer stunning durability and hardness, making them an excellent alternative to diamonds. While not as hard (scoring a perfect 10 on Mohs scale), CZ still stands out with its exceptional resistance against scratches, indents and scars.
As with other gemstones, diamond hardness depends on its composition and structure. Cubic zirconia features a cubic crystal system which can be doped with various elements to produce various hues; jewelry makers often utilize this material in place of conflict-free gems found in countries like Democratic Republic of Congo; however, others appreciate its stunning beauty and exceptional quality over other materials such as diamond simulants.
Moissanite is another highly sought-after diamond simulant, famed for its unparalleled beauty and hardness. However, most moissanite currently in circulation today has been synthesized in laboratories from scratch using synthetic diamond chemical composition found naturally within meteorites – creating an eye-catching gem which pairs beautifully with intricate designs and precious metals for an elegant finish – also much more budget friendly than diamond.
Ethical Sourcing
CZ’s low production costs and lab-controlled synthesis make it an affordable alternative to natural gems like diamond. Furthermore, unlike diamonds which are mined using environmentally unsustainable methods that often contribute to conflict regions in war-torn regions like Afghanistan or Congo, CZ can be ethically sourced allowing consumers to invest in jewelry without contributing to human suffering.
CZ jewelry is an ideal option for trend-driven pieces that will only remain trendy for a limited amount of time, or those looking for affordable sparkle without breaking the bank. Furthermore, its optical properties permit advanced cutting techniques which transform it into geometric forms or unconventional forms appealing to contemporary tastes. Plus, new coating technologies like diamond-like carbon (DLC) further improve durability and scratch resistance of CZ pieces.
CZ may be beautiful and valuable, but its brilliance can be compromised by exposure to elements. Therefore, proper care must be taken in order to extend its longevity and prevent its loss through damage or scratches caused by abrasive materials like steel wool. A soft cloth or polishing pad are useful tools for dust and dirt removal as is keeping it stored safely away. With proper maintenance a piece of CZ should last years with long-term brilliance and versatility! DearBeads’ selection of cubic zirconia drop beads offers colors, styles and shapes suitable to complement seed beads or metal bead jewellery designs perfectly.
Value for Money
CZ jewelry is an ideal solution for those who desire the diamond look without its associated price tag, trend-driven pieces and matching sets to build jewelry collections for any special event. CZ pieces offer high shine without losing their appeal over time – ideal for any wearable trend piece that stands the test of time.
Most people cannot distinguish a CZ from a diamond at first glance or from a distance, but trained jewelers and gemologists can spot subtle distinctions in visual characteristics like color (known as rainbow effect) reflection of light, scratch resistance and cloudy appearance with regular wear.
As with other crystals, cubic zirconia provides multiple metaphysical benefits when used with other healing stones. As one ruled by Venus, cubic zirconia helps awaken feminine energy, improve intuition and self-confidence, as well as aiding decision-making processes. Therefore, it makes an excellent companion stone for gemstones associated with goddesses such as emeralds, turquoises, celestites and green aventurines – or crystals belonging to light elements like sodalite selenite amber and sugilite for optimal performance.