Cubic Zirconia (Diamond Simulant)
Zirconium Oxide (Synthetic) · Synthetic Gemstone / Diamond Simulant
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); typically found in facet-cut round brilliant shapes
Mineral Group
Oxides
Chemical Formula
ZrO2 + Y2O3 (as a stabilizer)
Formation Process
Synthetic; created via the Skull Melting method where Zirconium Oxide powder is heated by radio-frequency induction until molten then cooled slowly.
About This Crystal
A colorless, transparent faceted stone with high dispersion and vitreous luster. This specimen appears to have a significant yellowish internal occlusion or surface damage reflecting through the table.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Colorless (D-grade equivalent); Streak: White; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 5.6-6.0; Fluorescence: Typically inert or weak yellow/orange under UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 2.15-2.18 (Singly Refractive); Birefringence: None; Dispersion: 0.058-0.066 (higher than diamond, producing 'rainbow' fire).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Lab-grown globally, primarily in Russia and East Asia; not found naturally in facet-grade sizes.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 8.0-8.5; Toughness: Medium-Low (brittle); Stability: Good, though high heat can cause shattering.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid harsh mechanical cleaning if reaching thermal shock limits; store separately to prevent scratching softer stones or being scratched by diamonds.
Rarity & Value
Very Common; Laboratory produced at high volume; Value is negligible (per-carat cost is very low compared to natural gems); mostly used in budget jewelry.
Special Characteristics
High dispersion causing intense rainbow-colored flashes; singly refractive unlike most natural diamond simulants such as Zircon or Moissanite.
Lore & History
Introduced to the market in 1976 by Soviet scientists as a cheaper alternative to diamond. In metaphysical belief, it is associated with clarity, focus, and transparency in one's intentions.