CZ Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings

If you are looking for a traditionally beautiful ring, but cannot afford a diamond, consider a CZ cubic zirconia engagement ring. For years, cubic zirconia has suffered with a reputation as a poor quality, cheap imitation diamond, best only in costume jewelry. In reality, however, cubic zirconia is a beautiful synthetic gemstone with many desirable properties suitable for the finest adornments, including high quality engagement rings.

Cubic zirconia is lovely and affordable.

What is Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia (often abbreviated CZ) is a lab-created crystalline cubic form of zirconium oxide stabilized with small quantities of other minerals, typically yttrium or calcium. While cubic zirconia can occur naturally, it is very rare because it requires temperatures in excess of 5,000 degrees fahrenheit in order to form substantial crystals. In addition to the high temperatures, gradual cooling is vital to form flawless, uniform stones.

The first natural cubic zirconia was discovered in 1937 by German mineralogists. In the 1970s, Russian (then Soviet) scientists developed a technique to grow cubic zirconia crystals effectively in the lab, but it wasn’t until the world-renowned Swarovski crystal company began mass-producing cubic zirconia in the 1980s that it became popular.

Cubic Zirconia vs. Diamonds

Cubic zirconia is a popular synthetic diamond because if used properly, it cannot be distinguished from a real diamond by the naked eye. Thus, a CZ cubic zirconia engagement ring is often mistake for a true diamond. It does have slightly less sparkle and brilliance than a true diamond, as well as a bit more fire and color. Depending on a person’s individual tastes, that may make cubic zirconia more desirable than diamond.

Diamonds can be found in many different colors, and so can cubic zirconia, depending on what different mineral oxides have been added to the zirconium oxide during crystal stabilization and cooling.

• Cerium oxides: red, orange, and bright yellow
• Copper, Nickel, Titanium, and Iron oxides: dark yellow and brown
• Chromium, Vanadium, and Thulium oxides: sage and olive green
• Cobalt, Manganese, and Neodymium oxides: lilac and violet
• Erbium, Holmium, and Europium oxides: pink

There are several ways to distinguish cubic zirconia from natural diamonds. Cubic zirconia is significantly heavier than diamond (65-75%), so weighing two stones of the same carat size would help determine which is cubic zirconia and which is diamond. Cubic zirconia also has different heat conductivity, and when measured, will have a red indicator instead of the green that diamonds produce. Furthermore, because cubic zirconia is grown in a laboratory under tightly controlled conditions, it is typically flawless and lacks the Diamond Flaws and Inclusions that mar natural stones.

Choosing CZ Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings

CZ Princess Cut Solitaire

When choosing cubic zirconia rings, it is important to be familiar with different engagement ring designs, ring settings, metal choices, and other style options. Because of its versatility, cubic zirconia can be used in the same way as diamonds, meaning that any shape, size, and setting is possible to create the perfect ring.

For a truly high quality piece, however, it is important to invest in a valuable setting. Many people make the mistake of choosing less expensive, lower quality settings and bands because the stone is not as valuable as a diamond, but all this does is result in a lower quality ring, diminishing its beauty and appeal. When shopping for a cubic zirconia engagement ring, be as discriminating as you would if shopping for the most flawless diamond on earth. After all, regardless of the stone, it is still an engagement ring, a symbol of the bond between two people, and should be chosen with care and discrimination.

Cost of CZ Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings

Cubic zirconia is naturally less expensive than diamonds or other gemstones because of its massive abundance. This makes it a beautiful but affordable alternative for couples on a tight budget or who wish to have a larger, more elaborate ring without the added expense of multiple diamonds. Colored cubic zirconia stones are rarer in jewelry, however, and are subsequently more expensive.

If your heart is set on a true diamond, don’t discount cubic zirconia entirely. Many couples choose combination rings that use a natural gemstone for the center stone but the accent stones are cubic zirconia or other synthetic diamonds. This significantly reduces the cost of the ring, and because the accent stones are not the focal point, their subtly lower quality is hardly noticeable. Pave Setting Engagement Rings, in particular, often use cubic zirconia or other simulated stones to create the illusion of myriads of diamonds for far less expense.

Caring for CZ Engagement Rings

As with any piece of jewelry, CZ rings should be meticulously cleaned and cared for to be kept looking their best. Avoid wearing the ring during heavy chores or sporting activities to prevent accidental damage. Warm, soapy water and a soft brush can clean the stone well, but always be sure to dry it completely to prevent water spots that dull the ring’s appearance. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for cubic zirconia engagement rings. Cubic zirconia stones are more brittle and softer than diamonds and should be stored individually to prevent scratches, nicks, or damage caused by rubbing against other jewelry.

A beautiful and affordable gemstone, cubic zirconia is a splendid choice for an engagement ring. Available in many colors and as versatile as natural diamonds, the synthetic jewel is rapidly gaining popularity both as an accent stone as well as the focal point of many engagement rings.

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