If you've ever browsed a selection of jewelry, especially those with beautifully sparkling stones, you've probably come across terms like zircon and cubic zirconia. At first glance, these two materials may look very similar, but there are actually several significant differences between them. In this article, we will focus on what zirconia and cubic zirconia are and what their main differences are.
What is Zircon?
Zircon is a natural gemstone that consists of zirconium oxide. Its natural beauty and resistance to damage make it a popular material for jewelry making. Zircon can come in a variety of colors, including blue, green, red, yellow, and brown, and is often used in the jewelry industry to make expensive and luxury jewelry.
What is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic Zirconia, often referred to as CZ (from the English Cubic Zirconia), is a synthetic stone that is designed to mimic the appearance of a diamond. It is made from zirconium dioxide in laboratory conditions. Cubic Zirconia is more affordable than natural zircon and is very popular for jewelry making due to its sparkle and shine.
The main differences between zirconia and cubic zirconia
Origin
Zircon: It is a natural gemstone that is mined from different parts of the world.
Cubic Zirconia: It is a synthetic stone, made in a laboratory.
Quality
Zircon: It is more resistant to damage and has a natural color range.
Cubic Zirconia: Although durable, it can be less durable than natural zircon and its colors are usually limited to clear and colorless.
Price
Zircon: It is usually more expensive than cubic zirconia due to its natural origin and quality.
Cubic Zirconia: It is more affordable and offers almost the same sparkle and shine as a diamond at a fraction of the cost.
Appearance
Zircon: It has a natural, authentic appearance with unique color shades.
Cubic Zirconia: Mimics the look of a diamond with high luster and sparkle.
Although zircon and cubic zirconia may look very similar at first glance, they have several significant differences. Zircon is a natural gemstone with durability and variety of colors, while cubic zirconia is a synthetic stone with affordability and high sparkle. When choosing a piece of jewelry, it's important to consider these differences and make a decision based on your preferences and budget.
If you are looking for jewelry with high shine and sparkle that is affordable, cubic zirconia can be a great choice. If you care about natural beauty, durability and unique color shades, zircon could be the perfect choice for you.