Cubic zirconia

Cubic zirconia is a synthetic material, a stabilized zirconium oxide, produced in laboratories since the 1970s. It is the most widespread diamond simulant for its look and low price.

Properties #

• Composition: zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂), stabilized with yttrium or calcium oxides.
• Hardness: between 8 and 8.5 on the Mohs scale.
• Look: colorless and very clean; also made in colors.
• Density: heavier than diamond: at the same size it weighs more.
• Origin: always synthetic.

Uses in jewelry #

• Affordable and fashion jewelry.
• Rings and earrings that imitate diamond.
• Colored stones for quality costume jewelry.

Pros and cons #

Advantages #

• Very inexpensive.
• Clean and brilliant.
• Available in many colors and cuts.

Limitations #

• It scratches with use and loses sparkle over the years.
• It is worth less than diamond or moissanite.
• It clouds with grease and cosmetics.

Care and cleaning #

• Clean often with lukewarm water and mild soap.
• Avoid knocks and abrasives.
• Store it apart from other jewelry.

See also #

• Moissanite
• Lab-grown or natural diamond: differences, price and which to choose
• Glass and crystal