Buying Cubic Zirconia Stones – Complete Guide

Buying Cubic Zirconia Stones – Complete Guide

Cubic zirconia stones are synthetic gemstones that closely resemble real diamonds. While the mineral was discovered in 1892 and much of the work was done over the subsequent decades, it wasn’t until the 1970s that a breakthrough in high-quality production of zirconia stones was achieved. This was due to technological advancements and the relentless efforts of scientists, which made it possible to produce perfect zirconia stones for use in fine jewelry.

Made from zirconium dioxide, a crystalline form of zirconium, they are considered as a more affordable alternative to natural diamonds in jewelry. Commonly called CZ stones, over the last few years, these artificial stones have gained popularity due to their brilliant shine and clarity that have been achieved with the help of research and advancement in technology that cuts perfectly sized cubic zirconia stones.

What are Cubic Zirconia Stones?

Generally, cubic zirconia is a man-made mineral consisting of zirconium oxide. These appear to be more like diamonds but have a significantly different mineral structure as compared to diamonds. Although cubic zirconia is discovered as a natural mineral too, their reserves are limited, so most of these stones, which are used in fine jewelry today are either man-made or lab-created.

With advancements in technology and sophisticated refining processes, the quality of these stones is recognized to be equal in brilliance, clarity, and color, giving them a high resemblance to real diamonds. During their manufacturing process, the stones are given a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them suitable for different jewelry designs. Their high shine, sparkling appearance, and price affordability have made them to be a popular choice for rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and other jewelry items.

Why Choose Cubic Zirconia Stones?

With a desire to have a high status-symbol, or to express individuality, jewelry has always been a popular accessory among women. Artificial jewelry has been in our culture for over 300 years now. Science and technology have made it possible to have very refined pieces of artificial jewelry, which are made of different minerals and materials such as cubic zirconia stones. Gaining immense popularity, cubic zirconia stones, which are synthetic gems, are considered as a practical alternative to natural diamonds when it comes to high-quality brilliance and clarity, yet at a fraction of the cost!

With their rising popularity among women, it is easy to find zirconia stones, yet hard to find high-grade ones. The stones have a high demand among all types of shoppers – be it a budget-conscious shopper or a jewelry enthusiast. In this article, we will guide you through the best sources for purchasing these affordable yet elegant gems.

Where to Buy Cubic Zirconia Stones

Online Retailers

With a surge in online retailers specializing in jewelry supplies, you will find a wide variety of cubic zirconia stones at competitive prices. Ecommerce stores such as Amazon, eBay, Etsy and DiamondVeneer offer a range of loose cubic zirconia stones for sale. All such ecommerce stores give extensive options for buyers to compare, with prices ranging from a few to thousands of dollars – all from the comfort of your home. To make selection easier, these e-commerce platforms provide detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and ratings to help buyers make informed decisions.

Online retailers such as DiamondVeneer offer a variety of jewelry designs made with cubic zirconia in different cuts, sizes, and colors. The extensive choice ensures buyers find exactly what they need, suitable to their budget and occasion. The convenience of home delivery and return policies are additional assurances that allow you to shop without leaving your house.

Jewelry Supply Stores

The traditional way of shopping versus online shopping may still be the preferred choice for some. While many online stores are limited to e-commerce, fashion stylists can also visit large retail stores such as DiamondVeneer in person to look at, touch and feel cubic zirconia stones for an enhanced jewelry shopping experience. In retail stores, buyers should also look for seasonal or bulk discounts that can be well availed. With DiamondVeneer, there are frequent seasonal discounts as well as loyalty programs, offering the best prices for loose cubic zirconia stones. With a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors available, DiamondVeneer caters to diverse needs. They also provide specialized options and the ability to purchase in specific quantities, with customization options in jewelry. It is equally easy to have custom jewelry options with DiamondVeneer—whether you are shopping online or in-store. Needless to say, DiamondVeneer offers a reliable source for high-quality cubic zirconia stones.

Tips for Buying Cubic Zirconia Stones

Quality Matters

Like any product that you buy, it is important to assess quality of cubic zirconia stones as they are graded in six categories, which we will touch upon later in this article. As a guide, you should be prioritizing quality to ensure you select the stone that gets you the maximum brilliance and durability. An easy way to gauge them is by finding the stones with consistent color, clarity, and cut. High-quality cubic zirconia will have a high sparkle and luster, which closely imitates that of a real diamond.

Check Certifications

This is an important one; some retailers and ecommerce sellers also offer grading reports to buyers as a mark of quality of products that they sell. It is always advisable to inquire about certifications or grading report when deciding upon the purchase of cubic zirconia stones to have a sense of surety, especially if you are buying a higher-priced stone. Having these certifications provide some level of assurance of the stone's quality and authenticity.

Consider Your Budget

Last, but not least, is the price range, of course. Considering your budget is a special consideration when making a purchase. It is always a good practice to search for options with various online or physical stores to ensure you get the maximum value for your money. There are seasonal and general discounts in the form of loyalty points, bulk purchases, and special discounts that are offered by sellers. It is important to search for such value to ensure you get the best-quality cubic zirconia stones within the budget you have.

Grades and Pricing of Cubic Zirconia

Highest Grade of Cubic Zirconia

The highest grade of cubic zirconia is known as "AAAAA" or "5A" grade. These stones are nearly flawless, with exceptional clarity and a high level of brilliance. They are cut and polished to precise standards, making them the most desirable and highest-quality cubic zirconia stones available.

Different Quality Levels of Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia stones come in various quality levels, typically categorized as A, AA, AAA, and AAAAA. Lower grades may have more inclusions and less precision in cut and polish, resulting in less brilliance and clarity. Understanding these grades can help you choose the right stone for your needs and budget.

Care and Maintenance Tips

Caring for your cubic zirconia stones properly can help maintain their sparkle and extend their lifespan. Here are some straightforward care tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your cubic zirconia jewelry regularly with mild soap and warm water. Use a soft brush to gently scrub the stones and remove any dirt or oils.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your cubic zirconia stones away from harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, as they can damage the surface and reduce their shine.
• Proper Storage: Store your cubic zirconia jewelry in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches. Keep pieces separate to avoid them scratching each other.
• Professional Cleaning: Consider having your cubic zirconia stones professionally cleaned once a year to maintain their brilliance.

In Conclusion

Cubic zirconia stones offer an affordable and stunning alternative to natural diamonds. With numerous options available from online retailers and jewelry supply stores, finding the perfect stones for your needs is easier than ever. Whether you are enhancing your personal collection or creating custom jewelry pieces, cubic zirconia stones provide elegance and sparkle without the high cost.