Cubic Zirconia by PehnecGems - Lab Gems, Loose CZ Specialist

ALL About the History of Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia, commonly referred to as CZ, is a mineral that is man-made.  This artificial substance is the cubic crystalline form of a compound called zirconium dioxide.  CZ is widely used as a diamond stimulant because of its visually flawless and colorless state.  This is why cubic zirconia is commonly referred to as the cheap man’s diamond.  However, it can be made in a wide variety of colors so that it can be used in many different ways.

The history of cubic zirconia is an interesting one.  It was discovered in 1892 in its natural form, the yellowish monoclinic mineral called baddelyite.  Because it was so rare, it had little economic important. 

Growing CZ artificially was a challenge due to the mineral’s high melting point.  No existing crucible could hold cubic zirconia at its molten state.  In 1899, German mineralogists discovered another naturally-occurring form of cubic zirconia:  microscopic grains.

In France in the 1960s, two scientists began intense research regarding single-crystal growth of CZ.  While it was a start, the process they used only created small crystals.  Soviet scientists later picked up this research and perfected the technique.  This discovery was published in 1973, and nearly 50 million carats of cubic zirconia were being created globally by 1980.

The process that the Soviets used is called skull crucible.  It incorporates radio frequency induction coils, copper pipes, and other hardware which helps the crucible to be able to hold CZ in its molten state. 

By adding certain metal oxide substances into the process, vibrantly colored CZ can be created.  For example, adding cerium yields a red cubic zirconia gem, while adding chromium yields a green colored gem.  Adding neodymium created a purple color, and adding erbium creates pink CZ.  Finally, adding titanium in the process makes the CZ a golden brown color.  This made cubic zirconia even more desirable in the market.

Think about the range of possibilities:  cubic zirconia could be used to represent many different types of gemstones at a much less expensive cost.  Jewelry makers, retailers, and enthusiasts across the world have discovered the sparkling benefits of utilizing CZ in their designs.  Customers love the price as well as the look!

 

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Buy Loose Cubic Zirconia Gems

Cubic Zirconia (commonly referred to as CZ) is a man-made synthetic gem that is created by scientists in labs.  While CZ does occur in the natural environment, the ability to create the gem in labs means that the supply can easily meet the demand of the jewelry market.

If you are a jewelry maker or own a jewelry store, you most likely want to buy your cubic zirconia in loose form so that you can make whatever type of jewelry your customers tend to like. 

There are many different shades that CZ is available in.  The most popular color is white, as the white cubic zirconia gems can easily be compared to high quality diamonds.  The white CZ gems come in A, AAA, and AAAAA qualities.  The AAAAA quality CZ gem is of higher quality than the A quality gem.

If your customers are happier with gems of a different color, don’t worry.  There are two different shades of purple cubic zirconia gems:  amethyst, lavender and violet.  The amethyst CZ is a deeper shade than the lavender. 

The lavender CZ is very light lavender, adding just a tint of color to an otherwise white gem.  The violet cubic zirconia is a deep shade of blue-purple that many women find complimenting.

Many jewelry lovers fall for blue-colored gems, and there are plenty of CZ gems that come in blue shades.  The aqua cubic zirconia is a light blue-green color and dates back to 1937, as it can be found in natural places. 

The tanzanite cubic zirconia is a deeper blue shade and, like its aqua counterpart, dates back to 1937.  Lastly, the sapphire CZ is rich in color, comparable to royal blue.  It is made from corundum, a material that is virtually indistinguishable from real gems.

If your customer prefers shades of yellow, there are two different shades available:  champagne and citrine yellow.  Champagne CZ has become very popular in the market, as has the champagne diamond.  Its tinge of yellow/brown is subtle yet very classy.  The citrine yellow CZ is a brighter yellow and is perfect for those who want to make a statement.

If you are in the market for cubic zirconia gems, try one of the colors listed above, or one of the other colors which include:  emerald, garnet, padparadschah, peridot, and pink.  Purchasing loose CZ gems through a wholesale dealer is economically sound and smart.

Cubic Zirconia is a beautiful yet inexpensive alternative to diamonds and other expensive gems.  This article elaborates on the many different colors that CZ gems are available in.

For more information, please visit website: www.pehnec.com