Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic gemstone that has captivated the jewelry world for decades. Known for its dazzling brilliance and affordability, cubic zirconia is often used as an alternative to diamonds in various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Despite its popularity, many people are still unaware of its properties, origins, and how it compares to natural gemstones like diamonds. This article delves into the fascinating world of cubic zirconia, exploring its history, manufacturing process, and the reasons behind its enduring appeal.
What is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia is a crystalline form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2). Unlike diamonds, which are formed naturally over billions of years under intense heat and pressure, cubic zirconia is created in laboratories. The mineral was first discovered in its natural form in 1892 by German mineralogists. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that cubic zirconia became commercially viable as a gemstone, thanks to advancements in crystal growth technology.
The History of Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia’s journey into the gemstone market began in the mid-20th century. During the 1930s and 1940s, scientists were experimenting with various materials to find a synthetic alternative to diamonds. It wasn’t until 1973 that Soviet scientists perfected the process of growing cubic zirconia crystals large enough to be used in jewelry. By 1976, cubic zirconia was introduced to the market as a cost-effective and visually appealing substitute for diamonds. The new synthetic gemstone quickly gained popularity due to its affordability, durability, and resemblance to diamonds.
How is Cubic Zirconia Made?
The creation of cubic zirconia involves a controlled laboratory process known as the “Skull Melt” method. This process involves heating zirconium oxide powder to its melting point in a skull-shaped crucible made of copper. The exterior of the crucible is cooled, while the interior remains hot, allowing the zirconium oxide to melt without contaminating the material. As the molten zirconium oxide cools, it crystallizes into cubic zirconia.
The growth process can take several weeks, depending on the size and quality of the crystal desired. Once the crystals are formed, they are cut and polished into various shapes and sizes, similar to how natural gemstones are processed. The resulting stones are then ready to be set into different types of jewelry.
The Properties of Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia is admired for its optical properties, which closely resemble those of diamonds. Some key characteristics of cubic zirconia include:
- Brilliance and Fire: Cubic zirconia is highly refractive, which gives it a high level of brilliance and fire (the dispersion of light into different colors). In fact, CZ has a higher dispersion rate (0.066) than diamonds (0.044), making it sparkle more intensely in the light.
- Hardness: On the Mohs scale of hardness, cubic zirconia rates at about 8.0 to 8.5, compared to diamonds, which are rated at 10. This makes cubic zirconia fairly durable and suitable for everyday wear, though it is more prone to scratches and abrasions than diamonds.
- Density and Weight: Cubic zirconia is denser than diamonds, weighing about 1.7 times more than a diamond of the same size. This difference in density means that cubic zirconia can feel heavier than a diamond.
- Clarity and Color: Most cubic zirconia is manufactured to be flawless, without any internal inclusions or external blemishes. Additionally, CZ can be produced in various colors by adding different metal oxides during the manufacturing process, offering a wide range of options beyond the classic colorless stone.
How to Distinguish Cubic Zirconia from Diamonds
While cubic zirconia and diamonds can appear remarkably similar to the untrained eye, there are several ways to distinguish between the two:
- Hardness Test: Diamonds are the hardest known natural material and can scratch almost any other material. Cubic zirconia, although hard, can still be scratched by other hard materials, such as topaz or sapphire.
- Thermal Conductivity: Diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, while cubic zirconia is not. A thermal conductivity tester, commonly used by jewelers, can quickly differentiate between a diamond and cubic zirconia.
- Magnification: Under a jeweler’s loupe or microscope, cubic zirconia will appear flawless, whereas most natural diamonds contain some level of inclusions or imperfections.
- Weight: Due to its higher density, cubic zirconia will feel heavier than a diamond of the same size when held in the hand.
The Popularity of Cubic Zirconia in Jewelry
Cubic zirconia’s affordability and visual similarity to diamonds have made it a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry. Here are a few reasons why CZ remains a favorite among jewelry enthusiasts:
- Affordability: One of the most significant advantages of cubic zirconia is its cost. CZ is significantly cheaper than diamonds, making it accessible to a broader audience. This affordability allows people to own larger and more intricate pieces of jewelry without the hefty price tag associated with diamonds.
- Versatility: Because it can be manufactured in various shapes, sizes, and colors, cubic zirconia offers a high degree of versatility. It can be fashioned into virtually any type of jewelry, from engagement rings to costume jewelry, and can be set in a variety of metals, including gold, silver, and platinum.
- Ethical Considerations: For those concerned about the ethical implications of diamond mining, cubic zirconia offers a guilt-free alternative. As a lab-created stone, CZ does not involve the environmental and human rights concerns often associated with natural diamond mining.
Caring for Cubic Zirconia Jewelry
Although cubic zirconia is durable, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance and longevity. Here are some tips for keeping your CZ jewelry looking its best:
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Exposure to chemicals, such as household cleaners or chlorine, can damage the surface of cubic zirconia and dull its shine. It is best to remove CZ jewelry when doing household chores or swimming in chlorinated pools.
- Regular Cleaning: To keep cubic zirconia sparkling, clean it regularly with a soft brush and a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as they can scratch or damage the stone.
- Proper Storage: Store cubic zirconia jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratches. Using a soft jewelry pouch or a lined jewelry box is ideal.
Conclusion
Cubic zirconia has carved out a unique niche in the jewelry market as a sparkling, affordable alternative to diamonds. Its optical properties, versatility, and ethical appeal make it a popular choice for those seeking the beauty of diamonds without the associated costs and concerns. Whether you’re looking for a stunning engagement ring, an elegant pair of earrings, or a colorful piece of statement jewelry, cubic zirconia offers a world of possibilities. As technology continues to improve, the quality and variety of cubic zirconia jewelry are only expected to increase, ensuring its place as a beloved gemstone for years to come.
