Caring for CZ Jewelry: Does Cubic Zirconia Tarnish?

Caring for your cubic zirconia (CZ) jewelry is essential for maintaining its dazzling beauty and longevity. As an irreplaceable diamond alternative, cubic zirconia offers exceptional durability, brilliance, and charm. It is a gemstone embedded deep within the jewelry ecosystem, adding refinement, unparalleled hardness, and immense beauty to any piece. Though cubic zirconia possesses hardness and durability like diamonds, proper care and maintenance are necessary to preserve its charm over time. If you are wondering about the best practices to keep your CZ jewelry looking as beautiful as the day you bought it, you're in the right place. This guide will dive into everything you need to know about caring for your CZ jewelry.

Chic Jewelry: Experts in Cubic Zirconia

At Chic Jewelry, based in Los Angeles, USA, we have been specializing in high-quality, AAA-certified cubic zirconia jewelry for over 35 years. With three generations of craftsmanship, we proudly offer stunning engagement rings, custom jewelry, and other exquisite pieces crafted with precision and love. Now, let's explore how to keep your cubic zirconia jewelry sparkling for years!

Cubic Zirconia Tarnishes- Does it?

One of the most common questions about cubic zirconia is whether it tarnishes over time. As a synthetic gemstone, CZ differs from its natural counterparts, and many wonder about its durability. While cubic zirconia itself is highly resistant to tarnishing, the metal setting that holds the gemstone can tarnish over time. CZ gemstones are hard enough to resist scratches, abrasions, and tarnishing, but the metal alloy surrounding the stone (such as silver, which is commonly used) can lose its luster with time. This is why proper care for the gemstone and the setting is essential to keep your jewelry looking its best.

Factors Contributing to CZ Tarnish 

While cubic zirconia gemstones themselves don't tarnish, several factors can cause the metal settings to tarnish, affecting the overall appearance of the jewelry. Some of these factors include:

• Chemicals in Contact: Household cleaners, perfumes, lotions, and even sweat can cause the metal to tarnish over time.

• Moisture: Prolonged exposure to moisture and humidity can weaken the metal, leading to tarnishing.

• Improper Storage: Storing your jewelry improperly or with other pieces can lead to scratches and a lackluster appearance.

At Chic Jewelry, we craft each cubic zirconia jewelry piece with high-quality materials and settings, minimizing the risk of tarnishing. However, regular maintenance is key to keeping your jewelry looking flawless.

Methods to Stop Cubic Zirconia from Tarnishing?

Following some simple yet effective care tips is crucial to preventing your cubic zirconia jewelry from tarnishing and losing its brilliance. While cubic zirconia itself doesn't lose its shine, the metal setting can tarnish if not properly maintained. Below are essential tips to preserve the sparkle of your precious CZ jewelry.

1. Do Not Wear Your Cubic Zirconia Jewelry All the Time

Even though cubic zirconia is durable, it's best not always to wear your jewelry. Continuous wear, significantly during activities such as cleaning, exercising, or swimming, exposes your jewelry to damage. Removing your jewelry before engaging in these activities is essential to prevent unnecessary wear on the gemstone and the metal setting.

Pro Tip: Designate specific occasions to wear your stunning CZ jewelry to protect it from excessive exposure to wear and tear.

2. Not Letting CZ Jewelry Come in Direct Contact with the Harsh Chemicals

While cubic zirconia gemstones are durable and resistant to tarnishing, the metal setting can still tarnish when exposed to harsh chemicals. Common substances such as perfumes, lotions, hairsprays, and cleaning products can cause the metal to lose its luster. Be sure to remove your cubic zirconia jewelry before applying any of these chemicals, and avoid wearing it while swimming in chlorinated water, which can also affect the metal.

3. Thorough Cleaning of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry Regularly 

Cleaning your CZ jewelry is one of the easiest and most effective ways to maintain its shine. A routine cleaning will remove dirt, oil, and debris that can dull the gemstone's brilliance. To clean your cubic zirconia jewelry, use a soft cloth to wipe away dirt and oils gently, and for a deeper clean, use mild soap and warm water.

At Chic Jewelry, we recommend gently scrubbing a soft toothbrush around the stone and its setting. This will help you remove any debris that may have accumulated over time. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage the metal setting.

4. Properly Storing Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Proper storage is as essential as cleaning when caring for your CZ jewelry. Improper storage can lead to scratches, tarnishing, or even the loss of shine. Store your jewelry in top condition in a fabric-lined jewelry box or a soft pouch. Make sure each piece is kept separate to avoid scratching and damage.

For optimal storage:

• Use a velvet-lined jewelry box with individual compartments to protect each piece.

• Store your jewelry in anti-tarnish bags to minimize exposure to air and moisture.

• Avoid storing your cubic zirconia jewelry alongside other gemstones to prevent abrasion.

Buy High-Quality Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

One of the best ways to ensure the longevity of your cubic zirconia jewelry is to invest in high-quality pieces from the start. High-quality, AAA-certified cubic zirconia jewelry, like the ones we offer at Chic Jewelry, is designed to withstand wear and retain its sparkle for years. Our expert craftsmanship and use of premium materials ensure that your jewelry will maintain its beauty and brilliance.

When you buy cubic zirconia jewelry from Chic Jewelry, you invest in a piece built to last. Whether you're looking for a stunning engagement ring or a custom-designed piece, our jewelry is crafted with care, precision, and love to ensure the highest quality and durability standards.

FAQs

1. Can I take a shower while wearing CZ jewelry?

Avoid wearing your CZ jewelry while taking a shower. Soap, shampoos, and body lotions can cause the metal setting to tarnish and affect the gemstone's shine. Prolonged exposure to water can also impact the overall appearance of your jewelry.

2. How often should I clean my cubic zirconia jewelry?

We recommend cleaning your cubic zirconia jewelry once every one to two weeks. Regular cleaning will help maintain the gemstone's brilliance and prevent the buildup of dirt and oils.

3. How do I know if I buy high-quality cubic zirconia jewelry?

High-quality cubic zirconia jewelry will have a perfect cut, clarity, and brilliance. Additionally, it will feature durable settings made from materials like gold or platinum. Purchasing from trusted jewelers like Chic Jewelry ensures you get premium designs made with the finest materials.

4. Can CZ jewelry lose its sparkle?

While cubic zirconia stones are resistant to tarnishing, dirt, oils, and scratches on the stone's surface can reduce its brilliance. Regular cleaning will restore the sparkle and ensure your jewelry continues to shine.

Shop for Great CZ Jewelry at Chic Jewelry

When looking for top-quality cubic zirconia jewelry, look no further than Chic Jewelry. With over 35 years of experience, our skilled artisans have been crafting exquisite, AAA-certified CZ products for discerning customers. Whether you're after a stunning engagement ring or a custom-made piece, we combine artistry, expertise, and high-quality materials to bring your jewelry vision to life.

Explore our collection today and find the perfect piece that fits your style and budget.