Cubic Zirconia

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a man-made gemstone that resembles a diamond but is composed of zirconium dioxide. It is highly affordable and often used as a diamond alternative in jewellery.

Yes, cubic zirconia is designed to closely resemble diamonds, but it can often have more brilliance and less clarity. Experts can distinguish between CZ and real diamonds through tests and visual inspection.

Cubic zirconia is durable and ranks at 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it resistant to scratches. However, it is not as hard as diamonds and can wear down over time with daily wear.

Cubic zirconia itself is hypoallergenic. However, the metal settings it is placed in may cause reactions if they contain nickel or other allergenic materials. It's best to choose nickel-free settings for sensitive skin.

Yes, cubic zirconia jewellery can be worn daily, but it may become dull or scratched over time with consistent wear. Regular cleaning and proper care can help maintain its sparkle and longevity.

To clean cubic zirconia jewellery, soak it in warm, soapy water and gently scrub with a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage the metal settings.

Over time, cubic zirconia can lose its sparkle due to scratches or a build-up of oils and dirt. Regular cleaning can help restore its brilliance, but unlike diamonds, it may not maintain its shine permanently.

Cubic zirconia is a popular and affordable alternative to diamonds, especially for those looking for a budget-friendly option. While it offers similar sparkle, it lacks the same durability and rarity as diamonds.

Cubic zirconia is considered more eco-friendly than mined diamonds as it is created in laboratories, reducing the environmental and ethical concerns associated with mining.

Yes, cubic zirconia jewellery can be resized by a professional jeweller. However, certain settings, particularly intricate ones, may be more difficult to resize without compromising the structure.