At P&K Jewelry, apart from being a leading vendor and wholesaler of various types of jewelry, our domain expertise and experience in the industry also allows us to create content that is informative and educational, so you can make a smart choice when it comes to buying jewelry. We love discussing the latest jewelry trends, raw materials, manufacturing processes, best practices, comparative analyses, and more.
On that note, today we bring to you a listicle that you must read before buying cubic zirconia. Here’s our list of ten things that you must know about cubic zirconia jewelry.
1. Cubic Zirconia is Manufactured, Not Mined
Considered a popular alternative to diamonds because of its brilliant appearance, cubic zirconia (or CZ) is a gemstone that is manufactured in a controlled laboratory environment. Contrary to popular belief, it is not found naturally. Zirconium oxide and other minerals are used to create CZ, the crystallographic isometric form of zirconium oxide.
2. CZ is Blemish-Free and Shiny
Unlike its more expensive counterpart (diamonds) or most natural gemstones, CZ is flawless in appearance. This makes it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry. With a refractive index in the 2.088 to 2.176 range and a dispersion rating in the 0.058 and 0.066 bracket, cubic zirconia stones are a great alternative to diamonds because they effectively exude the same charm and shine.
3. CZ is Available in a Variety of Options
Speaking about colored gemstones, you are often restricted in terms of choice because there isn’t a lot of variety. However, with CZ you have endless color options. Modern-day jewelry designs feature CZ stones that may be red, blue, yellow, pink, orange, green, and even purple!
4. Bigger Isn’t Always Better in the Case of CZ
While shoppers tend to fall head over heels for massive gemstones, it may not be the wisest choice in the case of cubic zirconia. In fact, smaller CZ stones look glitterier and create an alluring look compared to the bigger ones.
5. Cubic Zirconia is Flawless, Clear, and Colorless
Cubic zirconia is famous for its flawlessness and clarity, both of which are much higher than most other gemstones. CZ is also among the rare stones that are entirely colorless. And thanks to manufacturing innovations, jewelers can offer shoppers CZ stones in a wide range of colors today, as mentioned above.
6. CZ is Dense, Heavy, and Versatile
With an 8.5 hardness rating on the Mohs scale and a density of 5.50-5.90, CZ is quite dense and hence heavier than a diamond. In terms of the cut, CZ stones are preferred in a round, pear, heart, or princess cut. The variety of shapes makes cubic zirconia a flexible and versatile stone that can be used in a huge variety of jewelry accessories.
7. Pairing CZ with Silver is a Good Idea
The sheer allure of a cubic zirconia stone makes it a beautiful addition to any kind of jewelry item. From earrings and bracelets to pendants and necklaces, you will find a massive selection of CZ accessories at P&K Jewelry. When it comes to finding the right base metal to complement a CZ stone, sterling silver wins hands down. Not only does it look great, but they also serve as the perfect foil for each other.
8. CZ Jewelry is Quite Affordable
If you are looking for low-cost jewelry that does not compromise on quality, CZ is the way to go. And since the prices aren’t exorbitant, you can wear it or carry it around with you without worrying about its safety.
9. Ask Your Jeweler About the CZ Grade or Category
Before you make a purchasing decision, make sure you ask your jeweler about the grade or quality of the CZ stone of your choice. Generally, you will find cubic zirconia in the A, AAA, or AAAAA grades or categories. AAAAA or 5A is believed to be the best in terms of quality, polishing, cut, and finish.
10. Taking Care of Your CZ Jewelry
While buying CZ jewelry, make sure the stone is stable and well-set. Wobbly settings, especially in rings and bracelets, may lead to the stones falling out. Over time, CZ has the tendency to absorb the human body’s natural oils, making it partially cloudy or damaged. It is best to maintain a regular jewelry cleaning routine at home and take your CZ jewelry professionally polished at least once every year. To retain your jewelry’s natural sheen and shimmer, make sure you avoid any exposure to harmful chemicals present in chlorinated water, bleach, cosmetic products, or bathing essentials.
Always Buy CZ Jewelry from a Trustworthy Jeweler
There are lots of fakes in the market that might replicate the look of a CZ stone, but they will never serve you as long as a high-quality CZ will. It is important that you buy your CZ jewelry from the right jewelry partner.
Based out of New York, P&K Jewelry is the preferred partner for several leading retailers in the United States. We offer the widest selection of trendy, exotic, and superior cubic zirconia jewelry for any occasion. Our selection includes cubic zirconia bangles, bracelets, rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, and jewelry sets.
Discover our wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry and .925 sterling silver jewelry today!