Cubic Zirconia – a diamond-like gemstone
Cubic Zirconia is one of the most popular types of simulated diamonds. Cubic Zirconia is used to produce diamond-like gemstones, which are used in affordable earrings, necklaces, wedding and engagement rings. It is a crystallographic form of isometric zirconia.
Zirconium oxide was first discovered in 1882 but it was not until decades later that people realised that they could make a diamond-like gem of it.
In the 1930s, researchers discovered that zirconium had a cubic shape while viewing on a microscope and that it could be used for laser technology. It was not until the 1970s that Russian scientists came up with a perfect synthetic diamond – and the rest, as they say, is history!
Then it wentahead in lightning speed with the product being marketed throughout the world. Swarovski & Co. began selling the precious stones in the 1980s as loose stones, whereafter others followed. Cubic Zirconia stones have been popular ever since. You can set the stones in almost all metals and materials.
Cubic zirconia stones can be the perfect choice for people looking for affordable rings and a good substitute for diamonds. But one must keep in mind that these rings are not as high quality as diamonds. However, there are some tricks to keep your stones lasting longer!
- Take off your rings before you do anything that could scratch them or expose them to chemicals such as showering, swimming, washing dishes or cleaning.
- Never expose the stones to bleach or chlorine.
- Remove your rings before you use hand cream. If you use hair spray or mousse in your hair, it’s best to put your rings on when you have finished your makeup.
- Clean your Cubic Zirconia stones with an ordinary jewellery cleaner and a soft toothbrush regularly to avoid oils and dirt from accumulating on the stone.