How are Zirconia stones produced?

How are cubic zirconia stones made?

How are cubic zirconia stones made? Cubic zirconia (cubic zirconium oxide) is a synthetic gemstone created by melting zirconium oxide at extremely high temperatures and casting it into molds. The result is a clear, brilliant stone that closely resembles a diamond – but at a fraction of the price. In this article, you'll learn all about the production process and why cubic zirconia is so popular in jewelry. View our cubic zirconia jewelry collection.

What is cubic zirconia?

Cubic zirconia is the abbreviation for cubic zirconium oxide (CZ). It is a synthetic gemstone produced in a laboratory. Cubic zirconia has a hardness of 8.5–9 on the Mohs scale (diamond scores 10), making it resistant to scratches and suitable for daily use in jewelry.

The production process of cubic zirconia

The production process of cubic zirconia involves several steps:

• Step 1 – Extraction of zirconium – Zirconium occurs naturally in minerals such as baddeleyite and zircon. Zirconium is extracted via thermal reduction
• Step 2 – Conversion to zirconium oxide – The extracted zirconium is heated in an oxygen-free chamber until it becomes a white powder: zirconium oxide (zirc)
• Step 3 – Melting – The powder is heated in an oven to extremely high temperatures until it becomes liquid
• Step 4 – Casting and cooling – The liquid mass is poured into molds and cooled to form the well-known round, marquise, or other shapes
• Step 5 – Cutting and polishing – After cooling, the stones are cut to size and polished for maximum brilliance

Cubic zirconia vs. diamond

• Hardness – Diamond: 10 | Cubic Zirconia: 8.5–9 on the Mohs scale
• Brilliance – Cubic zirconia has a higher refractive index than diamond, meaning it reflects extra light
• Price – Cubic zirconia costs a fraction of the price of a real diamond
• Durability – Cubic zirconia is slightly less hard than diamond, but perfectly suitable for daily use

Cubic zirconia as a birthstone

Cubic zirconia is also widely used as a substitute for birthstones in jewelry. The stones are available in all colors of the rainbow, allowing each birth month to be beautifully represented. Read more about birthstones and their meanings.

What is the difference between cubic zirconia and diamond?

Cubic zirconia is a synthetic gemstone made of zirconium oxide, while diamond is a natural mineral made of carbon. Cubic zirconia has a hardness of 8.5–9 (diamond: 10) and costs a fraction of the price. In terms of brilliance, they are very similar.

Is cubic zirconia suitable for daily wear?

Yes, with a hardness of 8.5–9 on the Mohs scale, cubic zirconia is highly resistant to daily wear and tear. Combined with a durable setting of stainless steel or 925 silver, cubic zirconia jewelry can last for years.

In what colors is cubic zirconia available?

Cubic zirconia is available in almost all colors: clear (diamond white), pink, blue, green, red, purple, and more. This makes it ideal as a birthstone or for colorful jewelry. View our cubic zirconia collection.

Is cubic zirconia the same as CZ?

Yes, cubic zirconia and CZ are the same stone: cubic zirconium oxide. The terms are used interchangeably in the jewelry world.

How do I care for cubic zirconia jewelry?

Clean cubic zirconia jewelry with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh chemicals. Cubic zirconia can become slightly less brilliant over time – a careful cleaning will restore its sparkle.