Birthstone: April, Cubic zirconia is the alternative birthstone for April and zodiac sign Aries and Taurus

Meaning: Cubic zirconia is the stone of practicality, believed to motivate and give guidance when guidance is needed, therefore helping to achieve your goals.

What is Cubic Zirconia?

Undoubtedly the best diamond alternative and value available today, Cubic Zirconia has been established as an affordable diamond substitute as well as an important fashion staple in itself. It is a synthetic gemstone made from Zirconia sand and zirconium metal. The cubic zirconia story began in 1937, when the cubic form of zirconium oxide was discovered by two German mineralogists. It wasn’t until the 1970’s, however, when Soviet scientists learned how to “grow” this mineral in a laboratory where it was developed as an alternative to diamond for industrial processes before gradually becoming popular with jewellers.

Cubic zirconia is made by adding tiny pieces of zirconium metal to zirconia sand, applying an electrical current which melts the zirconia sand and then cooling the molten liquid very slowly, otherwise known as ‘growing’ the crystal. The crystal can then be cut and shaped into stones for jewellery.

Where does Cubic Zirconia come from?

Cubic zirconia is made in a lab through the process of melting powdered zirconium and zirconium oxide together. This mixture is then heated to 4982f to create a flawless cubic zirconia. Cubic zirconia is clear and flawless and is equivalent to a “D” on a diamonds grading scale.

What is the meaning of Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic Zirconia is believed to improve focus, increase clarity, and is called the stone of practicality because it encourages logical judgment and impartial conduct. Cubic Zirconia is known to be a stone that inspires and motivates, to give guidance and therefore helping to achieve your goals.

How to care for Cubic Zirconia?

Cubic zirconia is much like other gemstones in the sense that it needs to be cleaned to preserve its sparkle. Cubic zirconia should be cleaned with a soft cloth to polish for its shine. To clean cubic zirconia, you can use warm water with mild soap, a cloth and then rinse with clean water. It is important to avoid using polish or jewellery cleaners as these contain harsh chemicals and could destroy your jewellery over time. Cubic zirconia is best to be kept stored in a jewellery box or bag to keep it not only clean but safe and to avoid any scratches or damage.

Cubic Zirconia Vs. Diamond

•  Cubic zirconia has slightly less brilliance (sparkle) than diamond, but has more ‘fire (flashes of rainbow colours).
•  There are very few substances on earth harder than cubic zirconia. With a hardness rating of 8.5, CZ comes close to matching diamond’s perfect 10. Yes, CZ will scratch glass, just like a diamond.
•  Because cubic zirconia is grown in a lab in a controlled environment, if the crystal is not perfect in clarity it is simply not used.