Cubic zirconia (abbreviated as CZ) is an increasingly popular diamond alternative that looks strikingly like real stones. Made by man, CZ comes in numerous colors and forms to meet individual client specifications.
There are various factors to take into account when selecting cubic zirconia beads for jewelry designs. Read on and discover this fascinating gem!
They Look Just Like Diamonds
Cubic zirconia, commonly referred to as CZ, looks so similar to diamonds that it’s hard for untrained eyes to discern them apart. Both varieties possess the same dazzling sparkle and ability to refract light just like real diamonds do – almost making it indistinguishable by sight alone. Unfortunately, however, CZ is less durable than real diamonds and may become dull and scratched over time.
Identification of cubic zirconia beads from real diamonds can sometimes be challenging, particularly if they’re coated in precious metal such as gold, silver or another precious substance. To tell whether or not your piece is genuine, try testing for inclusions or specific gravity of the stone to verify authenticity; alternatively infrared spectroscopy could provide results, though this process can be costly and time consuming.
Another way to tell whether a necklace or earrings contain real diamonds is comparing their weight and inspecting them with a jeweller’s loupe. A real diamond will often feel heavier due to its size and metal combination weight; you can check for flaws by viewing in natural lighting or performing the line test.
Check the facet edges of a gemstone to determine whether they resemble those found in diamonds; sharper edges indicate greater likelihood that this gemstone could be an actual diamond.
They Are Hypoallergenic
Cubic zirconia beads are free of metals that cause allergic reactions in sensitive people, making them ideal for new piercings and healing earlobes. Furthermore, these beads offer an alternative choice for those allergic to real diamond or gemstone jewelry who cannot wear real pieces of jewelry.
Cubic zirconia may appear like crystal, but its durability can vary widely. Crystal beads feature multiple facets which add sparkle and glisten, yet this also renders them more fragile than cubic zirconia; even everyday household dust can scratch their surface, and over time their brilliance can fade with use. Neither material, however, absorb oils from skin and makeup products as readily resulting in faded brilliance with time.
Cubic zirconia remains an attractive choice despite these shortcomings; it’s less costly and looks similar to natural diamonds but differs chemically and physically from them. Lab-grown diamonds look very similar, yet they’re quite different chemically and physically. Cubic zirconia stones can pass a diamond tester but won’t feel as hard. Additionally, cubic zirconia is typically more cost-effective. Therefore, many prefer purchasing cubic zirconia over lab-grown diamonds. Before making an investment in any stone, it is crucial to perform a skin sensitivity test on any new purchase. Hypoallergenic synthetic stones – including diamonds, moissanite, and white sapphire – should be avoided in particular; such imitations may look like real gems but often contain cheap metals that cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
They Are Affordable
Cubic zirconia beads can provide jewelry enthusiasts on a budget an excellent, cost-effective option. In fact, these inexpensive beads can even be used to make bracelets with freshwater pearls or golden metal discs and look stunning combined with other types of beads.
When purchasing necklaces featuring cubic zirconia beads – usually sold per bead – this can add sparkle and shine without breaking the bank. They make a great way to bring out your personal style without spending too much.
Cubic zirconia gems are more environmentally-friendly than diamonds due to being manufactured in a laboratory, rather than mined naturally from our planet’s earth. Mining natural gemstones causes considerable environmental degradation; by purchasing synthetic gems like cubic zirconia you are making an ethically responsible purchase and supporting sustainability efforts in jewelry sourcing.
Cubic zirconia gemstones offer another advantage in the form of durability. Rated highly on Mohs scale of hardness, these gemstones can retain their brilliance and luster over time while boasting similar beauty to that of real diamonds – making them suitable for daily wear jewellery made specifically with them in mind. Unfortunately this cannot be said of crystal which breaks easily if dropped or handled roughly.
They Are Colored
Cubic zirconia can be produced in many colors by adding trace mineral impurities, such as cerium for red and yellow stones, chromium for green ones, or titanium to create gold hues. These hues can then be used in jewelry designs of all kinds.
Cubic zirconia can be cut to create various bead and gem shapes, similar to other gemstones such as diamond. Most gem shapes follow a basic diamond-esque pattern with pavilion, crown, girdle and table structures; additionally it may even feature rainbow effects for an eye-catching multicolored cabochon look.
Cubic zirconia stones come in an even wider spectrum of hues than rhinestones do, making them the ideal material for designing color-centric jewelry designs. For instance, string some purple cubic zirconia beads on either side of an amethyst focal to frame it with sparkle and draw attention towards this natural gemstone.
These gorgeous cubic zirconia beads are the ideal finishing touch to all of your jewellery projects, from formal eveningwear to everyday casual looks. Boasting vibrant colours that bring extra bling without breaking the bank. Plus, they make for an affordable way to emulate diamond sparkle without breaking the bank!
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