Why Cubic Zirconia Is a Good Alternative to Diamonds

While diamonds may have gained popularity with Marilyn Monroe’s iconic song "Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend," cubic zirconia is an equally stunning alternative. 

If you're looking for beautiful jewelry without the high cost of diamonds, cubic zirconia is a great option. This sparkling gem looks very similar to diamonds but is much lower priced and environmentally friendly. Not only is cubic zirconia affordable, but it also offers a stunning shine that can enhance any outfit.

In this guide, we'll explore why cubic zirconia is a good alternative to diamonds. Keep reading to learn more and find your perfect cubic zirconia jewelry piece. 

What is Cubic Zirconia (CZ)?

You’ve probably seen cubic zirconia (CZ) many times without even realizing it. CZ is one of the best alternatives to diamonds, offering a similar sparkle at a much lower cost. 

Unlike diamonds, which are mined, cubic zirconia is a lab-created synthetic crystal. Even though it’s made in a lab, CZ captures the same shine and brilliance as a diamond, making it a great choice for beautiful and affordable jewelry.

Cubic zirconia, known as a diamond simulant, is made from zirconium oxide. Since it’s man-made, CZ is free of flaws, making it a sustainable and nearly perfect gemstone. 

Cubic Zirconia vs. Diamond: Key Differences

One obvious difference between CZ and diamonds, though, is the source of the stones. Diamonds are naturally formed in deep chambers within the earth over millions and billions of years, given intense heat and pressure.

On the other hand, cubic zirconia is a chemical-made gemstone artificially created in a lab from zirconium dioxide. This artificial process can create flawless stones as designed. CZ is also denser than diamonds, weighing around 55% more than a natural diamond of the same size.

Although the cubic zirconia originates in other locations than diamonds do, cubic zirconia replicates most of the visual properties of the diamonds, including brilliance and sparkle. 

CZ can sometimes be clearer than diamonds because it doesn't contain any inclusions or imperfections that characterize natural stones. The only difference between CZ and diamonds comes down to the subtlety of the visible differences; only a trained jeweler, using special equipment, can detect this difference.

Cubic Zirconia: A Budget-Friendly Option

One of the major advantages of cubic zirconia is its affordability. The price of a diamond is based on the "4 Cs" (color, cut, clarity, and carat weight), and even a small, low-quality diamond can cost several hundred dollars. As the quality increases, so does the price, with flawless or near-flawless diamonds commanding high premiums.

On the other hand, cubic zirconia gives an expensive look minus the expense. A 1-carat CZ stone can be bought as low as $10 to $20 which allows one to purchase jewelry more flexibly. This makes cubic zirconia great for a good show of elegant sparkling jewelry without committing to diamonds and their financial burden.

Some of the key advantages are:

• Variety of Styles: Since cubic zirconia is affordable, you can experiment with various different styles and designs, building a jewelry collection that matches various outfits and occasions without worrying about the cost.

• Perfect for Trendy Pieces: CZ is ideal for trendy or fashion-forward jewelry since it allows you to follow the latest styles without making a large investment in pieces that may only be in vogue for a short time.

• Great for Larger Stones: If you're looking for an engagement ring or statement piece with a large stone, CZ allows you to get the look of a big diamond without the hefty price tag.

Eco-Friendly and Ethical Choice

Another compelling reason to choose cubic zirconia is its eco-friendliness. The diamond mining industry has long been criticized for its environmental impact. The extraction process requires significant energy and water resources, disrupting ecosystems and potentially harming local wildlife. 

Additionally, some diamonds, known as "blood diamonds" or "conflict diamonds," are mined in war-torn regions under unethical conditions, including the use of child labor or forced labor.

Cubic zirconia, being lab-created, eliminates these ethical concerns. It is produced in controlled environments, ensuring that no harmful mining practices are involved. 

For those who are environmentally conscious or concerned about human rights, CZ provides a guilt-free alternative to mined diamonds. For example:

• Sustainable Production: Since cubic zirconia is created in a lab, the production process can be more sustainable, reducing the environmental footprint associated with gemstone creation.

• Ethical Transparency: When purchasing CZ, you can be confident that your jewelry has been sourced responsibly, with no ties to conflict zones or unethical labor practices.

• Supporting Innovation: By opting for lab-created stones, you’re also supporting advancements in sustainable jewelry production technologies.

A Safer Alternative to Diamonds

Diamonds are highly valuable, and wearing them can sometimes make you a target for theft. High-profile robberies, like the one involving Kim Kardashian, where $10 million worth of jewelry was stolen, highlight the risks that come with owning and displaying such expensive pieces.

Because cubic zirconia looks so similar to diamonds, more people are choosing to wear CZ jewelry for everyday activities or while traveling. This trend has led to the rise of “dupe” engagement rings and wedding bands made from cubic zirconia, which are:

• Travel-Friendly: CZ jewelry is ideal for travel since it offers the same sparkle as diamonds without the worry of losing or damaging a costly piece.

• Peace of Mind: Wearing cubic zirconia allows you to enjoy the beauty of fine jewelry without the anxiety that often comes with wearing expensive diamonds.

• Daily Wear: Many people choose cubic zirconia for casual or everyday wear while saving their diamond pieces for special occasions, allowing them to enjoy beautiful jewelry without the fear of theft or loss.

Conclusion

Cubic zirconia is an excellent alternative to diamonds, providing the same beautiful sparkle at a fraction of the cost. It is not only budget-friendly but also offers an ethical and eco-friendly option, making it a popular choice for those who want stunning jewelry without the high price or environmental concerns. 

At Chic Jewelry, we specialize in offering high-quality cubic zirconia jewelry that’s designed to dazzle. From engagement rings to earrings and necklaces, our stunning pieces allow you to enjoy all the sparkle and glamour of diamonds without the hefty price tag. Our cubic zirconia jewelry is expertly crafted to give you flawless brilliance, making it perfect for any style or occasion.

If you're ready to find your perfect piece or have any questions, Contact Us today!