Understanding Cubic Zirconia Stones: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re in the market for an affordable diamond alternative in Kenya, you may have come across cubic zirconia (CZ) stones. 

CZ stones are man-made gems that are designed to mimic the look of diamonds. They have become increasingly popular over the years due to their affordability, durability, and similarity to real diamonds. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the history, properties, and characteristics of cubic zirconia stones, as well as how to care for and purchase them.

 

History of Cubic Zirconia Stones

Cubic zirconia was first synthesised in 1937 by German chemists, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that it became widely used in jewellery. 

Before then, CZ was primarily used in scientific research and industrial applications. However, the development of new techniques for synthesising high-quality CZ led to its use in jewellery as a diamond simulant.

 

Properties and Characteristics of Cubic Zirconia Stones

CZ stones are made of zirconium dioxide, which is a white, crystalline material. 

This material is synthesised in a laboratory setting under high temperature and pressure. The result is a hard, dense, and optically clear stone that is virtually indistinguishable from a diamond to the naked eye. 

 

Benefits of Cubic Zirconia

Here are some of the benefits of choosing CZ for your jewellery collection:

Affordability

One of the main benefits of CZ is its affordability. While diamonds can be quite expensive, cubic zirconia is a much more budget-friendly option. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want the look of a diamond without the high cost.

Durability

CZ stones are very durable and resistant to scratches, making them ideal for everyday wear. They are also less likely to break or chip than other gemstones, such as emeralds or opals.

Clarity

Cubic zirconia stones are often clearer than diamonds, with fewer inclusions or blemishes. This gives them a bright, even sparkle that can be just as impressive as a diamond’s.

Colour

CZ stones can be produced in a wide range of colours, making them a versatile option for jewellery. They can also be made to imitate the colour of specific gemstones, such as sapphires or emeralds.

Consistency

Unlike natural gemstones, cubic zirconia stones are produced in a laboratory setting, which means they are more consistent in their appearance and quality. This can make it easier to match stones for a piece of jewellery and ensure a more uniform look.

Eco-friendly

CZ stones are a sustainable and eco-friendly option for jewellery, as they are made in a laboratory rather than mined from the earth. This means they have a smaller carbon footprint and can help reduce the environmental impact of the jewellery industry.

Accessibility

Because CZ stones are widely available and affordable, they are a popular choice for a wide range of people, regardless of their budget. This makes it possible for more people to enjoy the beauty of fine jewellery without breaking the bank.

 

Caring for Cubic Zirconia Stones

To keep your CZ jewellery looking its best, it’s important to care for it properly, like any piece of jewellery, they require proper care to maintain their beauty and shine. 

Here are some tips for caring for your cubic zirconia stones:

1. Clean your Cubic Zirconia jewellery stones regularly: CZ stones can become dull over time from oils, lotions, and dirt that accumulate on them. To keep your stones looking their best, clean them regularly with a soft brush and warm, soapy water. Be sure to rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry with a soft cloth.
2. Store your CZ jewellery carefully: Cubic zirconia stones can be easily scratched or damaged, so it’s important to store your jewellery carefully. Keep your CZ jewellery in a soft pouch or box to protect it from dust, moisture, and other potential sources of damage.
3. Avoid exposing your CZ stones to harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or chlorine, can damage CZ stones or discolour the metal settings. Avoid wearing your CZ jewellery when swimming or cleaning with chemicals, and remove your jewellery before applying lotions or perfumes.
4. Avoid exposing your CZ stones to extreme temperatures: CZ stones can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, so avoid exposing them to sudden changes in temperature. For example, don’t wear your CZ jewellery when using a hot tub or sauna, as the sudden change in temperature can cause the stones to crack or become discoloured.

 

1. Inspect your CZ stones regularly: Regularly inspect your CZ stones for signs of damage or wear, such as scratches, chips, or loose settings. If you notice any problems, take your jewellery to a professional jeweller for repair.

 

Purchasing Cubic Zirconia Stones

When it comes to purchasing cubic zirconia stones, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting a high-quality stone that will meet your needs.

• Choose a reputable Nairobi jeweller: When purchasing CZ stones, it’s important to buy from a reputable seller. Look for sellers with positive reviews and a good reputation for providing high-quality jewellery. Such as The Little Jewellers.
• Check the quality: When buying cubic zirconia, it’s important to check the quality of the stone. Look for stones that are clear, bright, and evenly cut, with no visible blemishes or inclusions.

• Look for a good cut: The cut of the stone is important when it comes to its appearance and sparkle. Look for stones with a good cut that reflect light evenly and have a bright, sparkling appearance.
• Consider the colour: CZ stones can be produced in a wide range of colours, so consider what colour will best suit your needs. Keep in mind that some colours, such as pink or purple, may be more expensive than others.

 

• Consider the size: CZ stones are available in a range of sizes, so consider what size will best suit your needs. Keep in mind that larger stones may be more expensive than smaller ones.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, cubic zirconia stones are a popular and affordable alternative to diamonds. 

While they may not have the same value or prestige as diamonds, they offer a similar look at a much lower cost. 

When purchasing CZ jewellery, it’s important to choose quality stones and care for them properly to ensure they remain in good condition for years to come.