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jewelry

Cubic Zirconia 101

Article written by Fresh Boutique. Cubic Zirconia is the cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2).  Zirconium dioxide is a mineral that’s usually synthesized to appear like diamonds.  CZ is made from synthetic materials.  It sparkles more brightly than crystals.  It’s relatively hard and is actually harder than many gemstones.  However, diamonds are harder than cubic zirconia.  Due to its natural form, low cost, durability and similar appearance to diamonds, cubic zirconia give diamonds some real competition.  Platinum setting cubic zirconia Cubic zirconia can be tinted with a variety of colors, just like diamonds.  Unlike diamonds, cubic zirconia can be made to be totally colorless.  Real diamonds that are completely free of color are very rare.  Unless you’re a trained jeweler, you probably wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between a cz platinum ring and a real diamond ring. Cubic zirconia was discovered in its natural state in 1937 by two German mineralogists named von Stackelberg and Chudoba.  During the 1970’s, Soviet scientists learned how to develop the crystals in the laboratory.  In 1977, they first hit the market.  Cubic zirconia became very popular during the 1980’s when Swarovski began producing and selling them. Compared to diamonds and other gemstones, cubic zirconia is incredibly affordable.  It can be used to make all types of beautiful jewelry including earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and pendants.  Many might be shocked to learn that engagement and wedding rings made from cubic zirconia are widely popular today.  They’re a great alternative to expensive diamonds.
cubic-zirconia-101

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