Tag Archives: cz jewelry

The Enigma of CZ Jewelry – Faux, Fake, Imitation, Or Just “Practical?”

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A synthetic crystalline substance that is a popular alternative to diamonds, CZ or cubic zirconia is a brilliant and crystal-clear gemstone that is in the spotlight for a variety of reasons.

Since we’ve used the word “alternative” to describe the stone, it is important that we have an honest discussion around what cubic zirconia is and why jewelry that features this beautiful stone is often perceived in contrasting ways.

Shine Bright Like a… CZ?

Perhaps the biggest debate around CZ jewelry is – is it “just an alternative to diamond jewelry” or can it stand its own ground?

To find the right answer to this question, it is important that we first try and understand what cubic zirconia is and what makes it such a hotly discussed topic.

Cubic zirconia, unlike a diamond, is manmade. The production of CZ stones began in the 1970s. The typical manufacturing process involves heating powdered zirconium and zirconium dioxide to 4,982 degrees (F) to create the crystals. While CZ has been around for over five decades, it has been in the news of late because jewelry featuring these stones has become a raging hit among people.

Why is Cubic Zirconia in Demand? 

These lab-manufactured gemstones have gained massive popularity in the recent past thanks to a variety of reasons:

  1. CZ costs much lesser than a diamond (which it resembles)
  2. It is colorless and flawless, devoid of any blemishes
  3. CZ stones are available in a range of colors
  4. They can be used in different types of jewelry pieces
  5. CZ scores a neat 8.0 to 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale

While diamonds score a straight 10 in terms of hardness, CZ isn’t too far behind. This makes the gemstone extremely durable and excellent in terms of long-term usage.

All these advantages of CZ also make the stone a boon for jewelry makers, since they can experiment with versatile jewelry designs and makes. From rings and earrings to bracelets and necklaces, there is no jewelry type that has been left untouched by this alluring stone. The sheer beauty and durability of CZ stones make them a fabulous choice for jewelry items.

How to Understand the Quality of CZ?

While there is no standard grading system for cubic zirconia, you can gauge the stone’s quality by looking at the 4 Cs:

  1. Color
  2. Carat
  3. Clarity
  4. Cut

If you are on the lookout for high-quality CZ jewelry, make sure you look at these factors and go for stones that are rated 5A (AAAAA) for clarity. That is the closest a CZ stone can get to a real diamond.

You could also look at dispersion – or the fire that a gemstone exhibits – as a quality. Dispersion basically refers to the stone’s sparkle and brilliance, which is derived from how it uses natural light to disperse into the rainbow spectrum. Of course, diamonds have always been valued for their outstanding dispersion quality (with a dispersion rate if 0.044). But hey, guess what? Cubic zirconia features a much higher dispersion level, with a rate of 0.066. And this is what causes the exotic “rainbow effect” when direct light passes through CZ.

What Are the Shortcomings of Cubic Zirconia?

So, if cubic zirconia has ALL the aforesaid benefits and characteristics, why is it sometimes referred to as “fake,” “faux,” or “imitation?”

Well, that is because people always tend to compare CZ with diamonds (due to the fact that the former “looks like” or imitates the latter). And to be honest, that is very unfair to cubic zirconia. After all, it is a completely unique thing – so it is bound to be different from a diamond in some way or the other!

Bear in mind that over a period of time, cubic zirconia can become cloudy unless you duly maintain it. It is also prone to scratches and damages if you use the jewelry on a day-to-day basis, so it is essential that you take care of the stone.

However, the pros of CZ jewelry absolutely outweigh the cons, thus making it a phenomenal and stunning choice for jewelry pieces – especially engagement rings, cocktail rings, tennis bracelets, drop earrings, and necklace pendants.

How to Store, Clean, Maintain, and Restore the Dazzle of Your CZ Jewelry 

As is the case with any precious item you own, it is essential that you ensure the proper storage and upkeep of your cubic zirconia jewelry. To start with, make sure you remove your CZ jewelry before you take a shower, swim in a pool, or take a dip in the ocean.

It is also wise to remove such jewelry while doing manual tasks like exercise, gardening, plumbing, or doing household chores that might potentially damage it.

If your CZ jewelry isn’t sold to you in a fabric-lined airtight box, consider buying one. It is always better to store your cubic zirconia jewelry in a jewelry box or airtight container (rather than a plastic or fabric pouch) since it keeps the item safe from natural elements.

To clean your CZ jewelry, just use warm, soapy water and soft brush. Once you gently scrape all the dirt or gunk out, remove it from the water and allow it to dry naturally. You can also use a soft microfiber cloth to wipe your jewelry dry. Repeat this cleaning process every three months. Alternatively, you can take the jewelry to a local jeweler to get it cleaned and polished professionally.

Following these tips will help your CZ stones to retain their shine and luster.

Shop Our Exceptional Selection of Wholesale Cubic Zirconia Jewelry Online

At P&K Jewelry, we offer a wide range of cubic zirconia jewelry (available for wholesale buying). No matter what the occasion, we have an array of chic, bedazzling, and trendy cubic zirconia jewelry sets for every occasion.

10 Compelling Reasons to Buy Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

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Do you know which dazzling stone has a hardness of 8.5 according to the Mohs scale, a density of 5.50-5.90, a dispersion rating of 0.058-0.066, and a refractive index of 2.088-2.176?

It is none other than the stunning cubic zirconia or CZ (as it is popularly referred to).

Whoa, is that too much to take? Let us back up a little bit here by understanding what makes cubic zirconia jewelry such a rage in the market. To put it simply, cubic zirconia is considered as a convenient and smart alternative to diamonds and for good reason.

10 Reasons Why Cubic Zirconia (CZ) Jewelry is a Great Choice

  1. The Cost Factor

As mentioned above, CZ jewelry is a fantastic substitute for diamond jewelry. Diamonds are typically very expensive and not everybody can afford it. Since cubic zirconia looks exactly like a diamond and costs way lesser, it has emerged as an affordable choice for various types of jewelry pieces.

  1. Variety and Versatility Personified

From rings and earrings, to pendants and bracelets, CZ jewelry is available in a variety of designs at reasonable prices in the market. You can choose from an array of options in terms of CZ stone colors, too, including yellow, pink, green, red, blue, orange, and more.

  1. Always Flawless, Always Unblemished

Precious gemstones or natural stones are susceptible to blemishes and minor flaws, but that isn’t the case with CZ. Since it is manufactured in a controlled laboratory environment, the manufacturers assure you that stone will remain flawless and untarnished.

  1. Colorless and Pure  

Very rarely would you find a pure white diamond – cubic zirconia, however, can be manufactured in a colorless form. The high dispersion index of CZ means that it shimmers and shines brighter and better than natural gemstones.

  1. Smaller the Better

If you want something that will sweep people off their feet, remember, the smaller CZ stones look magnificent than their larger counterparts. As they say, bigger doesn’t always mean better. The richness and magnificence that a delicate piece of CZ jewelry has are unmatched.

  1. Flexible, Dynamic, and Adaptable

CZ is one stone that can follow and break all the rules. The stone looks brilliant when coupled with a gold, silver, or platinum metal base. However, we recommend opting for cubic zirconia jewelry that combines the CZ stone with stainless steel or sterling silver base metal since they are both beautiful and durable.

  1. Easy to Maintain

Cubic zirconia jewelry is extremely easy to clean, store, and maintain. It doesn’t require a whole lot of upkeep, although it is recommended that you take proper care of your jewelry. Simply taking it to a professional jeweler twice a year should be good enough to retain the shine and luster. While you can wear CZ jewelry regularly, it is recommended that you keep the stone away from harsh chemicals that may be present in certain cosmetics.

  1. The Ideal Travel Companion

Since cubic zirconia jewelry is cheaper than most other mainstream jewelry options (in terms of the stone and the metal), it can be worn or carried around without the worry of damage or safety issues. All you need to ensure is that the jewelry doesn’t come in regular contact with chlorinated water or bleach.

  1. It is a Synthetic Gemstone

Cubic zirconia is produced in a controlled environment by using a combination of minerals (like zirconium oxide and others). It is basically the crystallographic isometric form of zirconium oxide, meaning it cannot be dug up from a mine. This “manufactured” nature of CZ makes it a reliable and standardized synthetic gemstone.

  1. Wear It Every Day, Everywhere!

Unlike delicate jewelry or precious gemstones, CZ jewelry can be worn on a daily basis without the fear of wear and tear or damage. CZ jewelry is highly durable and resistant to scratches and rust. All you need to do is ensure that the stone setting is done properly.

Key Features and Properties of Cubic Zirconia

Coming back to the specifics, here’s looking at some numbers associated with CZ that are important:

  • Hardness: 8.5 on the Mohs scale
  • Density: 5.50-5.90
  • Specific gravity: 5.50-6.00
  • Refractive index: 2.088-2.176
  • Dispersion rating: 0.058-0.066

Given all the reasons above and the excellent properties of CZ, it is no surprise that the modern woman has fallen in love with this stone and jewelry made using cubic zirconia as the highlight. From engagement rings and bridal sets to everyday wear jewelry and casual wear, CZ jewelry has become the go-to choice for women all over the world.

Where to Buy Cubic Zirconia Jewelry?

Cubic zirconia jewelry can be bought at your local jewelry retail store or online from a reputed retailer or wholesale dealer. If you are looking for a wholesale CZ jewelry vendor, look no further. P&K Jewelry offers a wide selection of pendants, rings, necklaces, earrings, bangles, and complete cubic zirconia jewelry sets in beautiful designs and patterns.

Discover the power of CZ jewelry with us – we have the perfect picks for every occasion!

How To Keep Your Cubic Zirconia Jewelry Sparkling

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Cubic zirconia jewelry is unique and considered to be some of the most luxurious collections you can have. However, it is very sensitive to maintenance and care. When handled with care, the jewelry will be the perfect accompaniment to your dressing. Once you buy wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry, you should take good care of the accessories so that they can maintain the sparkle for a long time.

Cleaning and maintenance help to preserve the original sparkle and rustle. Maintenance involves careful choice of cleaning substances, procedures, and handling. Here are tips that will help maintain your cubic zirconia jewelry in sparkling shape for years to come.

  • Buy The Best Quality Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Cubic Zirconia jewelry is an investment that you make in your appearance. Choose the best zirconia pieces in the market so that you can get the original sparkle. They come in multiple variations that are differentiated by the quality of the crystals and the hosting metal. Invest in the best quality material to guarantee durability and a sparkling feel.

Check reviews of cubic zirconia jewelry to help you identify the versions and series that will serve your needs. Buy your jewelry from credible stores that can guarantee quality. You must also be ready to invest a significant amount in quality jewelry to get the right pieces.

  • Adhere To The Cleaning Procedure

The cubic zirconia crystal is sensitive to any scratches and the substances used during cleaning. The type and intensity of cleaning will also depend on where the jewelry is being used. A necklace or bangle used in a dusty and oily environment will require more intensive cleaning procedures and the use of intensive soup or detergent.

The recommended cleaning procedure involves wiping with a soft piece of cloth regularly. It will get rid of dust and other debris that may have settled on the surface. This is an exercise that may be carried out over the weekend when you have a few minutes to spare.

Water is also used for cleaning when hardcore dirt has settled on the surface. Some of the dirt or substances that should be cleaned using soap and water include lotion, body oil, and ointments that settle on jewelry from the skin. You have to add some soap or detergent to help dissolve the oils on the surface of your crystal. Choose cleansers that will not react with the hot metal.

A soft brush, like the toothbrush, is used to get to all cleavages and corners of your jewelry. The brush will also scrub all the dirt and oil off the crystal to leave a sparkling surface. The brush is gentle so that it does not scratch the surface of your glasses and leave it dull.

Pay special attention to the host metal and the joints where the metal meets the crystal. These are hiding places for dirt that may affect the sparkle of your jewelry. You must use procedures and substances that do not damage your jewelry to maintain the smooth shine.

  • Use Of Alcohol When Cleaning Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Alcohol is more potent for cleaning jewelry crystals, and especially dissolving the body oils. It helps to preserve the host metal and its surface so that it maintains the original feel. Alcohol does not react with metals and will, therefore, not cause corrosion on the surface of the metal.

Use the type of alcohol that is recommended for cleaning jewelry. The instructions on the variety of alcohol to use will be included in the accompanying user manual. Poor quality or contaminated alcohol could damage the surface of your crystal as well as the host metal. A soft piece of cloth is used to wipe the surface of the crystals to keep them sparkling.

  • Care While You Wear The Jewelry

Caustic solutions of any kind will damage your jewelry. It is advisable to take off the ring whenever you are using soap or lotion to wash your hands. The sterling silver will be damaged by chlorine in swimming water. Perspiration also dulls the jewelry, and you might consider removing when you hit the gym.

  • Storage Of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Pay special attention to the metal setting around the jewelry to avoid scratches. The crystals and metal should also be prevented from rubbing against each other. Use a soft piece of cloth to absorb any moisture and to avoid rubbing against each other.

Your cubic zirconia jewelry will only remain beautiful if you take care of it. When you buy wholesale cubic zirconia jewelry, wholesale jewelry NYC, you enjoy greater value for money and affordable, high-quality accessories. The use of ordinary substances and procedures for maintenance and care allows you to maintain sparkling jewelry under all conditions.

Why Cubic Zirconia Is a Hot Jewelry Trend Today

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Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

When shopping for jewelry, most people go for traditional precious metals such as diamond and gold. However, the jewelry industry has evolved rapidly over the years with new technology leading to the development of new jewelry materials. Among these synthetic materials is Cubic Zirconia (CZ) which has emerged as the most popular alternative to diamonds.

As the fashion industry aims for sustainability, there’s a search for alternatives to natural gems and metals. If you are in the market for awesome but affordable jewelry, it is time to examine why CZ jewelry is now in vogue. It is the first step in keeping up with the hottest trends in the fashion industry.

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry in Brief

Cubic Zirconia is also known as diamond simulate, synthetic diamond, or faux diamond. It is a synthetic material made in a lab by melting powdered zirconium and zirconium dioxide under intense heat.

The result is a flawless stone that is free of inclusions and which compares to diamonds in terms of brilliance and crystal clarity. During the manufacturing process, the stone can be created in any color to simulate any diamond color. CZ jewelry production started in the 1970s and it has grown in popularity as the best diamond alternative.

Reasons to Wear Cubic Zirconia Jewelry

Many fashion lovers now look for alternative jewelry to get more value for their money. While diamond’s value initially came from its brilliance, light dispersion and beauty, more people now go for it due to the high price tag.

Any diamond piece on the market will set you back thousands of dollars and you might not even get a genuine stone. This is just one reason to opt for equally beautiful synthetic Cubic Zirconia Jewelry. Other reasons making CZ jewelry trendy include:

1. Sustainability

The fashion industry has come under scrutiny due to its irresponsible attitude toward the environment. While everyone wants to look good, not many people in this industry want to look at the bigger picture.

There’s a lot of pressure to turn to sustainable jewelry production and one way of doing this is by developing alternatives to natural metals.

CZ jewelry is a hot trend as many fashion influencers and celebrities vouch for its entry into the mainstream market. If you want to look good and still save the planet, it is advisable to go for sustainable jewelry like this.

You can also overhaul your jewelry collection by buying cubic zirconia jewelry wholesale. This will be a big statement about your commitment to saving planet earth.

2. Ethical Concerns

While precious metals such as gold and diamond ooze irresistible beauty, there are concerns about their origins. Diamonds have received a lot of flak due to the poor mining conditions, human rights abuses and other horrendous practices involved in extracting the minerals.

Many fashion houses now shun blood diamonds and instead opt for synthetic materials such as Cubic Zirconia. If you want to wear your jewelry with a clean conscience, it is time to look at what CZ jewelry has to offer.

With more awareness about the horrific conditions involved in natural mineral extraction, CZ jewelry will continue trending as the coolest alternative.

3. Durability and Strength

One of the main considerations when shopping for jewelry is the durability of the material. Most natural materials are susceptible to damage from exposure. They require special care and this makes them a costly investment.

Cubic Zirconia is a tough and durable material formed under intense eat conditions. With a hardness rating of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, it comes close to a diamond with a rating of 100.

There are no cleavages on the stone that reduces the risk of cracking and chipping. If you want to invest in long-lasting jewelry, you should look at the wide variety of Cubic Zirconia Jewelry on the market.

4. Flawless Jewelry

One of the major drawbacks of natural stones used in jewelry making is the presence of flaws. Diamond, which is one of the most precious metals, contains inclusions and it is almost impossible to find a flawless stone.

This is where Cubic Zirconia comes in handy as an alternative as it is optically flawless. The gemstone has superior fire, brilliance, and sparkle than a natural diamond. If you are looking for a dazzling gem for your jewelry, Cubic Zirconia should top your list.

5. Elegance and Beauty

Cubic Zirconia jewelry has become the most popular alternative gems because it comes close to that glamour and elegance of the natural diamond. It is hard to tell the difference between a CZ crystal and a diamond stone. Both are brilliant and stand out due to their beautiful appearance against the light.

6. Affordability

While everyone would like to don a diamond, the price is too high. Since the top diamond manufacturers declared “diamonds are forever” the prices have kept on rising as consumers have bought into the hype. Cubic Zirconia Jewelry is more affordable and yet it has most of the qualities you like in a diamond. From brilliance, hardness to elegance, you can get all this from CZ jewelry without breaking the bank.

7. Versatility

It is possible to get CZ stones in any color as the production is in a laboratory. If you want to create a bespoke piece, you can shop for CZ gems in your preferred color to make a custom piece. Some common CZ colors include colorless (or white), pink, blue, champagne, purple, orange and green.

You can customize your necklaces, engagement rings, wedding rings, pendants, bracelets, earrings, eternity rings, and other forms of jewelry using CZ stones.

8. Easy To Wear Jewelry

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry is easy to wear with both formal and casual outfits. If you want to upgrade your jewelry collection, CZ jewelry will do the trick and you will have different pieces to suit any occasion.

Final Thoughts

Looking for an anniversary ring? Maybe you want to overhaul your jewelry collection? Whatever your jewelry needs, Cubic Zirconia Jewelry is a trend you should not miss. This beautiful jewelry is affordable, versatile, eco-friendly, ethically manufactured, durable and sturdy. It is the ultimate alternative to diamonds and no one can tell the difference.