All You Need to Know About Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

With their flawless sparkle and dazzling beauty, diamonds have long been loved and appreciated for their fire and brilliance. Existing for years deep inside the Earth’s core, their scintillating artificial counterparts, CZ, a simulated gemstone, burst onto the gemstone and jewelry scene late in the 1970s, exercising a bolstering presence ever since. 

CZ, known for its high-quality, dominant presence, is nearly indistinguishable from its natural counterpart to the naked eye. The finest grades, sometimes called Russian Formula CZ, can even leave experts and veteran gemologists puzzled—such a strong resemblance, which fuels immense popularity and commands higher prices. 

Today, cubic zirconia offers a much more affordable, accessible way to cherish breathtaking jewelry without worrying about the higher costs associated with natural diamonds. But you know what? This story surprisingly did not start in a jewelry box, so let us explore the fascinating history and characteristics of this brilliant gem. 

Astonishing History of Cubic Zirconia

Let's take you back to an unexpected start to something that was soon becoming a monumental presence! Before the gemstone was fashioned into rings, earrings, and bracelets, Cubic Zirconia had a much different purpose. Its journey began with a serendipitous discovery and a technological challenge.

How Curiosity Sparked Modern Laser Tech

In 1937, German mineralogists M. V. Stackelberg and K. Chudoba discovered microscopic grains of a previously unknown crystal. At that very moment, this discovery seemed minuscule. Still, an analysis later via X-ray diffraction confirmed that these were the natural form of what is currently popularly known as synthetic Cubic Zirconia.

Decades later, the very first synthetic CZ stones were not just created for adorning but for innovative purposes. Russian scientists, experiencing a shortage of natural rubies required for the stability of their laser technology, sought a crystalline gemstone with specific optical properties. 

The research into cubic zirconia led to the creation of a gemstone that, though not physically similar to a ruby, shared special optical properties. Most adequately meet the optical requirements for their lasers. It did not take long before someone looked at these brilliant crystals, and they were picked.

Their manufacturing processes required extreme heat, and the crystals could not be contained in an ordinary crucible. Seen as a challenge, it led to a potential delay in the mass production of CZ in the jewelry manufacturing till the 1970s. The solution comes from an unexpected source: microwave technology. A process known as “skull melt.” It is the intensity of microwaves that heats the material from the inside out. This allows the exterior to remain cool and ultimately form its own container, while the interior reaches the incredibly high temperatures needed for crystallisation. 

Characteristics of Cubic Zirconia

Its characteristics make CZ a standout. And why it is widely accepted by the customers, a diamond lookalike, CZ’s properties could be mistaken for those of a diamond. The answer lies in its remarkable physical and chemical properties. With CZ still not matching a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, it still has a respectable 8.5. 

The gemstone has a hardness sufficient to withstand the rigors of daily wear. CZ’s incredible durability and toughness make it a great everyday accessory. Having a refractive index and dispersion close to that of a diamond, thus allowing it to produce bedazzling sparkles when reflecting light. 

CZ, however, is significantly lighter than a diamond. CZ is about 75% heavier than a diamond of the same size. So jewelers measure it in millimeters rather than carats.

Color of Cubic Zirconia

The mesmerizing sparkle of this diamond alternative lies in its diverse color palette. Even though its colorless form is the closest diamond substitute, it can be created in a rainbow of shades by adding various elements as it forms. 

• Clear or White: One of the most common colors achievable through high-temperature heat treatment, this very distinctive gemstone sparkles with a pure, flawless appearance. This very prominent white color is considered a classic choice for engagement rings. 

• Yellow, Orange, or Red: Adding the element cerium (Ce) produces warm, sunny hues.

• Green: Chromium, when added, produces a vibrant green color reminiscent of emerald. 

• Blue: Cobalt (Co) or iron (Fe) emits stunning blue hues, mimicking sapphire or aquamarine.

• Purple: Neodymium (Nd) imparts a beautiful violet luster, much like an amethyst.

• Pink: Adding erbium (Er) imparts a delicate pink glow to the stone.

• Golden Brown: Titanium (Ti) is used to create a warm, golden-brown hue similar to a tiger's eye.

Common Shapes of Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia can be cut to a brilliant shape. With a cut and clarity resembling those of its natural counterpart, these diverse shapes influence optical effects and style. 

• Round: One of the most scintillating and classic cuts, the round brilliant is crafted to produce the best possible effects from light reflection and refraction, creating an exceptional sparkle. The shape is preferred for timeless, elegant designs. 

• Oval: The elongated shape epitomizes aesthetic and sophisticated beauty. The smooth lines of the oval shape create a flattering look, making it a match made in heaven for any finger.

• Heart: Synonymizes love and compassion; the heart shape is a romantic choice for special occasions, particularly anniversaries and Valentine’s Day. 

• Princess: With its sharp, square shape and brilliant facets, the princess cut offers a modern and fashionable aesthetic for those with a bold sense of style.

While these include the most skilled artisans, honing their craft to the fullest and having gained immense experience in cutting CZ into any custom shape desired, the craftsman's skill is evident in a variety of cuts, indicating the gemstones used to create a diverse collection of jewels. From fascinating earrings to the elegance and charm of the bespoke rings, the exclusive CZ collection offers a scintillating piece of jewelry for every choice. 

At LA Chic Jewelry, our master jewelers have specialized in custom ring designs for over 35 years and can bring any vision to life.

Ready to design your own unique piece? Inquire now to get started.

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry: Grade and Quality Guide

When choosing CZ, grading becomes an unavoidable factor. Suppliers typically grade stones as A, AAA, or AAAAA (5A), with 5A being the highest quality. Those top-tier CZ choices define a gemstone with superior cut, clarity, and polish. The grade directly affects the stone’s price and aesthetics, providing a nuanced look. Recent technological advancements are paving the way for greater accessibility and better affordability. 

NOTE:

Higher grades result from a more refined manufacturing process, yielding an appearance close to that of real diamonds. 

Guiding You to Buy the Best in Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

When shopping for CZ jewelry, consider the tips given below for the best returns.

• Inspect Quality: The cut gives you an idea of the stone’s brilliance; however, the overall quality impacts its longevity. A well-cut stone with its bespoke sparkle shimmers irrespective of its size. 

• Size is Not Everything: With the large-sized stone giving a bolder, more captivating appearance, a smaller, more intricately cut CZ could appear aesthetically brilliant and glimmering. 

• Comparing Prices: The price of CZ depends solely on its cut, size, and grade. Shop thoroughly, using the time to compare options and get a higher-quality piece that fits within your budget. 

Work with a Trusted Jeweler: A reputable jeweler can guide you through the selection process. At LA Chic Jewelry, we pride ourselves on using only AAA-certified Cubic Zirconia, ensuring every piece meets our high standards of quality and brilliance.