Wednesday, July 28, 2010

The Reason Why it is Practical to Buy Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings

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When you are deciding to propose, one of the things you need to think about is the ring you are going to give the love of your life. Before deciding upon the right gemstone to purchase, you surely owe it to yourself to consider the purchase of a cubic zirconia engagement ring. The employment of diamonds for engagement rings has a very long tradition. That, however, does not necessarily lead to it being the very best choice for the occasion. Instead, it is wise to take additional time to learn about cubic zirconia engagement rings and you will find yourself with a completely new idea of what an engagement ring should be.

The idea behind a extremely costly engagement ring is that the man is able to clearly show a woman how much he actually loves her. Diamonds are the obvious choice because of tradition. Recently, however, cubic zirconia engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular. In recent times, cheap cz engagement rings have fast become very popular. That is because they have the same beautiful look and the same durability as a diamond for a much lower price.

Since the price is more reasonable it gives you two options for your budget. First, you can buy a larger cubic zirconia engagement ring for a price that is the same as the considerably smaller diamond. Or, if you really want to be smart, you could get the same size ring for a much lower price than the diamond and use the rest of the money for something else. Take the money you save and use it for something else! You could give your fiancé a nice ring and then use the money saved for a down payment on an excellent new car.

When one takes into consideration the current state of the economy, overspending on a diamond is possibly not the best plan of action to take. You do not want to start your new life together in debt. Would it not be a much better idea to look for better options? Also, the idea of buying a ring has undeniably changed over the years. Modern women like to be included in the ring shopping process. So let her know how much there is to spend and talk together about the option of getting cubic zirconia engagement rings. The two of you will know, but no one else has to if you do not tell them.

There are a number of young couples that choose to select cheap cubic zirconia rings and make the decision that in the future when the couple is more financially sound, they may seek to trade it in for a real diamond. The truth here is that the cubic zirconia engagement rings are so beautiful that most people will never opt to trade them. The initial ring will always signify the emotion linked to the engagement. That first ring will represent the emotion and the sentiment of the engagement no matter what it is made of.

Avoid falling into the trap of assuming you should buy a diamond engagement ring due to the issue of tradition. There are lots of reasons why a cubic zirconia engagement ring is a smarter choice. Those that look at these rings will see their value and then make the appropriate purchasing choice.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Cubic Zirconia and Diamonds in Comparison

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Many are wondering what's the difference between diamonds and cubic zirconia? Why is cubic zirconia (CZ) quickly becoming more popular as a desirable substitute for diamond? Gemologists can agree that CZ comes closer than any other gem material to matching the characteristics of a diamond.

Most people, even trained gemologists, cannot tell the difference between diamond and CZ, with the naked eye. Moreover, to the untrained eye, CZ looks identical to a good quality diamond. However, under closer inspection, CZ appears to have slightly less brilliance (or sparkle) than a diamond, and more fire, or flashes of color.

Cubic zirconia were originally developed by the Russians, for their space program. They were developed as an alternative to diamonds that were used in the optics of their lasers. CZs have a refractive index, dispersion and hardness so close to a diamond it's uncanny.

So what are some key features that can guide you in telling the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia jewelry? Do keep in mind, though, in order to accurately distinguish the two gems, gemological equipment such as microscope, or loupe, must be used for testing and verification.

To start, let’s take a look at the hardness factor: Did you know CZ ranges between 8.5 to 9.0 on the Mohs’ hardness scale whereas diamond, one of the hardest materials known to man, is rated 10, lying at the top of the hardness scale?

Furthermore, glass (or sand) is rated approximately 5 to 6 on the hardness scale, therefore, dust and dirt will not scratch CZ. Indeed, CZ can scratch glass just like regular diamonds, making it more resistant to chipping.

One great difference between diamond and CZ is weight. CZs are heavyweights in comparison to diamonds; a CZ will weigh approximately 1.75 times more than a diamond of equivalent size. So basically, a piece of CZ the same size as a one-carat diamond weighs about 1.75 carats. Well …isn'’t that interesting?

Contemporary production of CZ is virtually flawless, whereas diamond usually contains impurities and inclusions, or have some sort of defect, be it a feather, included crystal, or perhaps a remnant of an original crystal face (e.g. trigons).

In regards to color—more precisely, the lack of color—only the rarest of diamonds are truly colorless, as most have a tinge of yellow or brown to some extent. By comparison, cubic zirconia especially on cubic zirconia engagement rings in most cases can be made entirely colorless, equivalent to a perfect "D" on diamond's color grading scale.

Also, under close inspection with a loupe, the facet shapes of some cubic zirconia appear different from diamonds. Both gems disperse light a little differently. Dispersion is just a scientific term for the breaking up of light into its spectral colors. With a dispersive power greater than diamond (0.060 vs. 0.044), the more prismatic fire of CZ can be seen by even an untrained eye.

Dispersion occurs based on the gem’s refractive index. In this case, refractive index simply indicates how much a beam of light will bend, based on the direction in which it is traveling when it passes between two materials of different optical densities (such as between diamond and air; or between CZ and air). Being that CZ has a refractive index of 2.176, compared to a diamond's 2.417, diamonds are therefore said to be brighter than CZ.

Another difference between the two gems is that CZs are thermal insulators—meaning, they reduce the rate of heat transfer—whilst diamonds are among the most efficient thermal conductors—meaning, they allow heat to easily pass through them. Without testing the gems’ heat conductivity, it can be difficult to tell them apart.

Remember, it is a 50/50 guess to identify a gem by visual inspection; it is not a scientific method of authentication. That is why even certified and degreed gemologists use gemological equipment for testing and verification.

You will also be glad to know that cubic zirconia are not only durable and inexpensive, but just like diamonds, they come in any color of the rainbow, making them even more desirable.

There have been many instances to see if jewelers can tell the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia, just by examining the gems with the naked eye. Over and over again, it was inconclusive; jewelers could not tell the difference just by looking at the gems. So you can now understand why the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia rests in the price, and in the mind…

Monday, July 19, 2010

Buying Fake Diamond Jewelry is Very Satisfying

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If you enjoy wearing jewelry but are tired of the high prices, then consider turning to imitation jewelry to help solve your problems. The truth is that jewelry has a knack for accenting many clothing pieces and outfits, that is why many people enjoy picking up jewelry pieces. However, it can get expensive to be continuously buying new items of jewels. When you discover just how beautiful and convincing fake jewels can be, you will be tempted to pick up even more than you were after.

The most common type of jewelry that is not real is called cubic zirconia. This actually resembles a diamond in every way. To the average person, they might believe that it is in fact a real diamond. They have the ability to trick most people into thinking that they are the actual thing. One reason why someone will wear this kind of jewel, is to make it look like they are wearing real diamonds. An entire set of cubic zirconia jewelry consisting of a necklace, earrings and bracelet, might look very glamorous on an evening out.

Costume jewelry is made to imitate the real thing. They make the best addition to any new outfit that you have purchased. And with it available in every shape, color and size, you have many options when you are trying to pick out something special.

Wedding pictures look great with the sparkling of jewelry in them, that is why many brides will spoil their party with the purchases of costume jewelry. These pieces will just be worn for one special day and will be a nice treat for the bridesmaids to wear.

Buying imitation jewel pieces can be a fun shopping trip. That is because they are much cheaper than purchasing the real thing and most pieces look very real. Picking out items that look nice and being able to buy them without the guilt of a hefty price tag can be a great feeling for any consumer.

You can pick up imitation pieces anywhere that costume jewelry is sold. Department stores usually carry a section of fancy pieces that are available for you to try on and even come in small boxes just in case your buying it as a present. Many clothing stores will have a few racks full of costume pieces. They are usually situated close to the checkout area, so that people will glance over and see something that they like. And with the small prices, many cannot refuse.

One of the great features to this kind of jewelry is that it is pretty durable. So you don't have to worry about being extra careful with it. It can be a pain to handle expensive jewelry when you are afraid of it breaking or becoming discolored all of the time. With fake diamond jewelry like fake wedding rings, you can relax and just enjoy wearing it.

With any purchase of cubic zirconia jewelry, you will find that it will go with many clothing pieces that you have. You can truly have fun with these pieces and mix and match styles and colors. Many shoppers will continue to purchase this jewelry and enjoy wearing them for years.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Cubic Zirconia Jewelry - Cuts and Colors

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Cubic Zirconia has long been recognized for its amazing ability to simulate diamonds. In fact, these lab created gems are more flawless than diamonds found in nature, and can be cut to refract light even more perfectly than real diamonds. For consumers, cubic zirconia stones are an eminently affordable alternative to diamonds.

Because of the simulated stones' popularity, those who make jewelry - whether cheap cubic zirconia rings, earrings, necklaces,  or pendants - are designing ever more beautiful settings for the synthetic gems. The low wholesale cost of loose cubic zirconia allows jewelry designers to create ever more elaborate pieces.

In addition to being able to buy loose cubic zirconia at wholesale or below wholesale prices, jewelry makers appreciate the dazzling array of colors and cuts that are available for CZ stones. For example, amethyst, violet, and lavender cubic zirconia are all shades of purple, while aqua and tanzanite are gorgeous shades of blue. Citrine and champagne are both in the yellow-gold range of colors, emerald and peridot are green, and garnet is a deep, rich red color.

The colors of these synthetic gems are obtained by adding an "impurity" to the CZ stones, such as a metal oxide. For example, erbium may be added to create a pink color, or neodymium might be added to create purple. Similarly, chromium can be added to make loose cubic zirconia stones green, and cerium may be added to create yellow, orange, and red lab created gems.

Of course, many jewelry makers and consumers prefer the brilliant clear cubic zirconia. Similar to diamonds, these white CZ stones are graded according to quality. Cubic zirconia AAAAA is the highest quality, followed by CZ AAA and cubic zirconia A.

Although the way a diamond cutter and polisher cuts a gem-quality diamond is in large part determined by the imperfections of the rough stone, those who manufacture loose cubic zirconia don't face the same constraints. For that reason, the variety of cuts of CZ stones is remarkable, as it the beauty and brilliance of the cut stones.

Some cubic zirconia jewelry cuts very much resemble those of diamonds, while others are more unique. Loose cubic zirconia cuts include oval, round, heart, octagon, marquise, square, star, pear, and trillion.

When it comes to lab created gems, cubic zirconia is only the tip of the iceberg. In addition to synthetic diamonds, simulated blue sapphires, alexandrite, and tanzanite, all made from corundum, are also popular. Likewise, simulated stones like coral, emerald, garnet, lapis, and emerald have gained widespread acceptance among both jewelry makers and consumers.

With the exceptional quality of CZ stones, their low wholesale cost, and the incredible selection of colors and cuts, it's easy to see why loose cubic zirconia is often the stone of choice for jewelry designers and consumers alike.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Giving Life to a Relationship Through Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings

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An engagement ring is not merely a simple item of fashion accessory. It is a symbol of love, a life-long companion, a life-altering event that lasts forever. Unlike common engagement rings that are adorned with Mother Nature gemstone or semiprecious stones, cubic zirconia engagement rings go the opposite way with gemstones from the laboratory. They are tailor made for those people who weigh manmade gems more than those natural counterparts.

Known as zirconium oxide, cubic zirconia can only be found in nature. It is colorless until another mineral is added to give it color. Exquisitely cut, only the most trained eyes can sport the difference between a cubic zirconia engagement ring and the genuine competitive product.

Scientifically speaking, a cubic zirconia engagement ring resembles the genuine one to perfection. However, you can judge the gemstone by dispersion rate, the degree to which a prism cut from the gemstone splits the light to show "fire". This ring comes with more fire to it, thus, its dispersive power is some sort greater than that of a diamond. The hardness rating of a diamond can reach as much as 10 while a cubic one is 8.3.

Color is also of vital importance in estimating a diamond's value. A large quantities of such rings are meticulously manufactured basing on the color rating of diamonds. To enhance the brilliance, the cut of the stones differs a bit since diamonds have a higher refractive rate. The greatest difference between the two gems is that a cubic zirconia is a heat insulator while a diamond is an effective heat conductor.

Besides, cheap cz engagement rings mirror every detail of a genuine diamond to perfection from any aspect including looks, cuts, etc. There is no need to be insane in your purchase as long as the promise, the life-altering event are the same regardless whether there is a gem or not.

Monday, July 5, 2010

Things to Know Before Buying Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings

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Cubic zirconia may be an imitation diamond, but there's nothing cheap or low-quality about the stone. Actually, the growing popularity of it has put the squeeze on real diamond sales. Of course, the two stones are distinctly different in many ways.

First, unlike a diamond, the cubic zirconia can't refract light like diamonds can. It has a prism effect that allows a rainbow of colors to sparkle - more so than doamonds. The texture of the stones is also different - diamonds are famed for their hardness, and they can be cut cleaner than cubic zirconia. And yet ironically, cubic zirconia can have a perfect appearance, while diamonds can't.

This is possible because cz is a man-made synthetic stone, while the diamond is a product of nature and has natural flaws. Finally, diamonds are highly heat-resistant; the cubic zirconia will shatter if it comes into contact with high temperatures.

Fake diamond jewelry are guaranteed to be snubbed by some people, but diamonds are a luxury item that can be financially prohibitive. Couples must decide if they can afford a fine diamond engagement ring before they get married. Lots of couples start out their marriages on a tight budget, so when they're ring shopping they may steer clear of the diamond counters and instead browse through the displays of cheap cubic zirconia rings.

When it comes to pricing, the cubic zirconia engagement rings can be quite inexpensive compared to real diamonds, which will allow you to save a big chunk of money that can go toward other wedding costs. It is acceptable for most people. In fact, for the lay person it's really difficult to distinguish between it and a diamond ring, even up close; in some cases only a professional jeweler can tell the difference.

So if it looks like a real diamond, why not choose it for your engagement ring, at a far lower price? And when it comes to the low heat-resistance of it, just ask yourself how often your engagement ring is going to be close to a fire!

These days, the jewelry market has a high percentage of cz jewelry, and nearly every jeweler sells engagement rings. Like diamonds, cz rings are available in a wide variety of styles, designs and cuts. The rings mountings can also be in 14K gold, sterling silver, basic or swirl, and you can get from 1-3 stones, a pear-shaped cut or round cut, and many other options.

The diamond is the gem most commonly emulated by the cubic zirconia, but it can be made to look like other stones, such as the emerald. Ultimately, there are no limitations when you decide to go with it over a far more costly diamond engagement ring. And now that you know you have no worries in terms of the style or price of your engagement ring, the only thing you need to do is choose the right size.