Is Cubic Zirconia same as Diamond?
Cubic Zirconia Jewelry GuideCubic zirconia, also known as CZ, is a mineral that is commonly used as a substitute for diamond after being synthesized. This mineral is chemically composed of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) and is hard and colorless in its original form. Since it is inexpensive, durable and similar in appearance to diamond, it is a best fit for imitation diamond jewelry and has been used as such since 1976. While cubic zirconia is being synthesized, a metal oxide stabilizer (like calcium oxide) is mixed into it to give it a cubic crystal form. It is up to manufacturers which stabilizer they use and in what quantity; this is what accounts for the difference in the optical and physical characteristics of synthesized cubic zirconia jewelry articles. Moreover, with hardness of around 8.5 on the Mohs scale, this replication of diamond is harder as compared to many natural gemstones. In addition, cubic zirconia jewelry is heavier as compared to diamond jewelry. It can’t be said for su
