Cubic Zirconia Jewelry is among the most popular types of synthetic jewelry and many people have fallen in love with gorgeous, affordable and durable pieces. Since the 1970s when Cubic Zirconia(CZ) jewelry came to the market, it has gained a large fan base for various reasons. If you are in the market for beautiful yet affordable jewelry, it is time to learn more about CZ jewelry.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about this popular type of jewelry including its history, advantages and most popular forms. Take a look:
Introduction to Cubic Zirconia Jewelry
Before you buy CZ jewelry, it is important to understand its background. Cubic zirconia is zirconium oxide in cubic form and is one of the most beautiful lab-created gemstones available. It is a crystal clear stone that resembles diamonds, and CZ jewelry comes from this synthetic material. In a lab environment, experts mix powered zirconium and powered zirconium dioxide and heat the two up to 4.982F creating the synthetic crystalline substance known as Cubic zirconia.
The process of developing cubic zirconias started way back in 1890 through to 1930. However, the material would not make it to the commercial jewelry industry until the 1970s when it first hit the market.
The awesome jewelry which looked almost like diamondjewelry to the naked eye created a lot of buzz in the industry back then just as it does today. CZ has become the most common diamond-alternative gem for consumers looking for gorgeous and beautiful jewelry for any occasion. It comes in a rainbow of awesome colors, and you can find perfect white stones to bright red gems.
Difference Between Cubic Zirconia and Diamond
There is no denying that Cubic zirconia and diamonds look similar and even share other qualities such as durability. However, there are some outstanding differences which you need to know as a buyer. They include:
1. Natural Vs. Synthetic
Diamonds are natural materials with flaws and inclusions. However, Cubic zirconia is a synthetic material formed in the lab and has fewer flaws.
2. Hardness Levels
Diamonds are the hardest materials, and this is one reason they make high-value jewelry. The formation of Cubic zirconia also leads to a very hard material but it can’t match the hardness levels of a diamond. On the Mohs scale, cubic zirconia has a rating of 8.5 while diamond boasts a rating of 10.
3. Weight Differences
Cubic zirconia is dense and weighs a lot more than diamond. CZ jewelry is thus 50%-70% heavier than diamond jewelry. It is an important distinguishing factor is you are after lightweight jewelry.
4. Fire/Light Dispersion
When buying jewelry, the sparkle is a very important consideration. It is one of the main distinguishing factors between diamonds and Cubic Zirconia. Cubic zirconia boasts higher dispersion and when exposed to light exhibits more colorful flashes compared to diamonds. CZ jewelry thus turns out more colorful and brilliant than diamonds.
5. Facets and Cuts
Cubic zirconia is softer than diamond and cutting it results into rounded facets. On the other hand, diamonds have sharper facets. The problem with these sharp edges is their ease of breaking or chipping.
Benefits of Buying Cubic Zirconia Jewelry
Now that you appreciate the history and features of these two similar types of jewelry, it is time to assess the benefits of CZ jewelry. Here are some reasons to invest in this beautiful jewelry:
1. Durability: If you are after high quality and durable jewelry, CZ jewelry should top your list. Your pieces won’t break, chip or crack and you will get good value for money.
2. Affordability: If you want elegant and glamorous jewelry but you don’t have money to spend on diamonds, go for CZ jewelry. The jewelry is beautiful, classy and sophisticated and works as the cheapest alternative to diamond. In case you lose a piece, you won’t have to break the bank to replace it.
3. Versatility: You can get rings, bracelets, earrings, and pendants and other forms of CZ jewelry in the market.
4. High-quality jewelry: They imitate most qualities of diamonds includes clarity, brilliance, sparkle, durability hence any piece you buy is a worthy investment.
5. Ease of customization: This type of jewelry is softer than diamond and thus easier to work with to get that customized piece for a special occasion or to suit your taste.
Buy Cubic Zirconia Jewelry is the perfect alternative to diamond if you need magnificent, brilliant and durable jewelry without paying through the nose. You can increase the value of your ring by choosing a precious metal such as platinum, gold or sterling silver.
Original Source: https://www.diamond-rings-info.com/blog/cubic-zirconia-jewelry/
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