A Five step guide to choosing CZ Engagement Rings

Cubic zirconia imitates the look and feel of diamonds, so much so that these are termed as your diamond simulants, replicating the naturally mined gemstone’s hardness, strength, luster, and lattice structure. 

Collectors consistently seek a plethora of vibrant, luxuriously striking, and stunning CZ jewelry trends, which highlights how cubic zirconia engagement rings, derived from these prized gemstone jewels, stand out as the most significant purchases without breaking the bank.

Cubic zirconia, an affordable alternative that can look as visually striking and feel as aesthetically stunning as a naturally mined gemstone, is a good choice when chosen appropriately. The contemporary trends show a seismic shift to modern, sophisticated yet affordable artificially mined gemstones for budget-friendly jewelry choices. 

According to data and research, 62% of newly engaged individuals share photos of their rings publicly, displaying them to friends, family, and colleagues. Your rings are now visible all over social media, and you've made them public. 

Not all CZ rings are created equal; some appear fake, while others are virtually inseparable from the naturally mined gemstone. The detailed guide helps you navigate the world of CZ engagement rings uninterruptedly. The extensive information listed below will ensure that you have chosen a piece that truly wows here, offering greater accessibility within your specified budget range and requirements. 

What Makes a Cubic Zirconia Special? 

Cubic zirconia, an artificial crystalline substance, perfectly imitates the diamond but is created in controlled laboratory conditions. Charming jewelry lovers since the 1970s, CZ, a lab-created material, offers exquisite diamond-like qualities at a fraction of the cost. A renowned choice that is becoming increasingly popular, CZ has seen a surge in demand, becoming the most followed choice for engagement rings.

Unlike diamonds, which are naturally mined with inherent flaws and inclusions, CZ is created to resemble visual perfection, making it the most popular choice due to its characteristic charm and simplistic appeal. 

Resembling the crystal clarity, the flawless appearance makes the artificial gemstone virtually inseparable from a diamond. It is with the most scintillating cut and setting that the gemstone could fool even the experienced campaigners and seasoned veterans. 

Why Choose the CZ Engagement Ring?

Not just affordable and more accessible, a Cubic Zirconia gemstone would go beyond to serve multiple purposes. Perfect for surprise proposals when your partner is unaware of her style preferences, giving you the flexibility to shop for the “forever ring” together later. 

A CZ engagement ring could be your perfect travel companion, perfectly enhancing the luxurious feel and guaranteeing an overwhelming charm. You do not need to worry about expensive travel insurance, nor is there a constant worry of theft. 

At LA Chic Jewelry, we've spent over 35 years perfecting the art of cubic zirconia craftsmanship. Our three-generation expertise ensures every CZ stone meets the highest standards of brilliance and beauty.

Step 1: Premium Grade CZ with Hearts & Arrows Cut

Deciphering CZ Jewelry Grades 

Similar to how diamonds are given grades, CZ is also graded on quality scales. CZ falls under the category of A to AAAAAA (6A), with 6A suggesting the highest-grade machine cut quality. Pioneering top-end CZ craftsmanship, comprising hard-cut stones, thus depicting the perfect assemblage of skills and expertise, and tons of experience. 

The Benefits of Hearts & Arrows

Opt for cubic zirconia stones featuring the distinguished Hearts and Arrows pattern. The cut maximizes surface area of the lattice, with the cut technique emanating into the much-awaited light effect. Going through the intricacies of the cut technique, it is the symmetry of the cut that maximizes light performance, inducing the much-coveted “ice” effect, a particular hallmark of their natural counterparts. 

Hand-cut cubic zirconia, when carved with a proper technique, could match the level of authenticity, displaying the same levels of luminosity as fine diamonds and becoming virtually indistinguishable, exuding the same charm and aura for a nuanced appearance as that of their natural counterparts. 

What to Look For:

• Grade 5A or 6A CZ minimum

• Hearts and Arrows cut pattern

• D color (colorless)

• Internally flawless clarity

• Hand-cut stones when possible

At LA Chic Jewelry, our AAA-certified cubic zirconia surpasses industry standards, featuring near-colorless D-grade stones with internally flawless clarity. Each piece undergoes rigorous quality control to ensure maximum brilliance and fire.

Step 2: The Stone Shape Should Match Her Hands

The shape of the stone could significantly alter the look and feel, determining how it appears and changes, suiting your finger. Which shape can be most suited to a particular hand type? Before learning and considering the traditional 4 Cs, it is pivotal to know what stone shape would adapt to the fingers, uncovering which shape will be most flattering.

• Short Fingers: Choose elongated shapes like oval, pear, emerald, or marquise cuts for creating an illusion of stretched or extended lengths. Here, round cuts also work well, with less emphasis on finger length. Avoid the thicker bands and oversized round stones. 

• Fuller Fingers: Bold statement rings with thicker bands help reduce the appearance of a broadened finger. Radiant and emerald cuts work exceptionally well, filling the width of the finger exquisitely. Avoid thin bands and narrow cuts like marquise.

• Long Fingers: You have the freedom to choose from virtually any shape, but elongated cuts like emeralds, ovals, and marquise particularly accentuate elegant finger length. Consider two-band sets for added visual interest.

• Small Hands:  A proportionate design plays a critical role in overall aesthetics. Featuring a scintillating yet straightforward overall appeal with a smaller center stone, does appear perfectly sized throughout. No statement rings, wide bands, or oversized rocks are to be included. Preferring round and princess cut solitaires, balance sparkle and proportion. 

• The Detective Work Pays Dividends: All the stylish clues can be gathered by examining her jewelry box and identifying the ring styles she currently wears. Backing your search with insights that quite clearly give you an entry into her comfort zone. 

Call LA Chic Jewelry today to discuss which stone shapes would work best for your partner's unique hand characteristics.

Step 3: Opting for the Right Band Material 

With your CZ engagement ring serving as the perfect placeholder, selecting the band material still warrants careful consideration, taking into account both aesthetic and health factors. 

Refrain from These Materials: 

• Avoid silver or gold-plated rings.

• Unknown base metals that might contain nickel.

• Hollow silver construction.

The Nickel Allergy Problem

According to Dr. Matthew Zirwas at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, nickel causes the majority of metal allergies. When nickel dissolves in moisture from hand washing or natural perspiration, it creates irritating salts that can cause rashes, redness, swelling, and blistering.

Our Recommendation: Nickel-Free 925 Sterling Silver

Sterling silver offers the perfect balance of beauty, durability, and safety. It polishes to a brilliant mirror finish, has excellent reflective properties, and costs significantly less than other precious metals. Since pure silver is too soft for jewelry, sterling silver is made from a 92.5% silver, 7.5% copper alloy that maintains strength while preserving beauty.

At LA Chic Jewelry, we exclusively use nickel-free 925 sterling silver to ensure comfortable, long-lasting wear for even the most sensitive skin.

Step 4: Emphasis on Rhodium Plating

Rhodium plating would revolutionize average jewelry into those state-of-the-art pieces. Representing precious metals, bringing to the fore the core of the platinum family, rhodium guarantees an umbrella of benefits. 

Key Illustrations:

• Scratch-Resistance: One of the most significant benefits is the abrasion-resistance guaranteed via rhodium plating.

• State-of-the-art Coloration: Top coloration leads to a brilliant, mirror-like finish. 

• Tarnish Resistance: Preventing stains, abrasions, and tarnish keeps the material shiny and polished, even with regular wear. 

• Hypoallergenic Properties: Safe for sensitive skin.

• Professional Look: A professional-looking appearance that would maintain a luxurious-looking appearance, a little longer.

Since rings show more wear, abrasions, or tarnish than any other jewelry due to a comparatively higher usage, regular maintenance needs to be ensured to maintain their new appearance. The rhodium plating acts as a protective barrier, intercepting the metal and skin to prevent allergies caused by the underlying alloys. 

Step 5: Premium Packaging Should Never Be Underestimated

According to the Dotcom's 2015 eCommerce Packaging Study, nearly 40% of consumers consider premium packaging significant for accommodating their luxury accessory. With CZ engagement rings forming the core of luxury accessories, premium packaging not only redefines the look and feel but also reflects the quality and thoughtfulness that underpin an emotional connection and compassion with the jewel piece.

Why Would Premium Packaging Matter:

• The first impression should last.

• Premium packaging would reflect the quality and thoughtfulness of your choice. 

• Initiating a memorable proposal moment.

• Such a packaging would ensure attention to detail and care. 

• Comprehensive storage.

CZ engagement rings packaged in fragile materials, such as cheap plastic boxes and rudimentary pouches, fail to garner praise due to their lack of presentation. Such low-quality, dilapidated packaging, including a subpar presentation, would detract from what could be a fascinating overall impact associated with your carefully chosen ring. 

Making Your Investment Count

Ready to make your investment count with a perfectly opted-for CZ engagement ring? Contact LA Chic Jewelry today to explore our collection of premium AAA-certified cubic zirconia engagement rings. Our three generations of expertise and commitment to quality ensure you'll find exactly what you're looking for.

A careful consideration, however, would offer incredible results, leading to a well-thought-out investment followed up with professional care and maintenance. Following these five essential steps helps you select a ring that not only looks stunning but also guarantees a fascinating experience when garlanding your fingers with elegance, finesse, and sophistication. 

The primary aim is not to save money but to savor a choice that would genuinely impress, providing you with the flexibility to choose something that is as compatible as it is affordable and accessible. It is with careful consideration that your CZ engagement ring would remain so convincing that even those jewelry professionals would need special equipment to identify it.