Cubic Zirconia
Zirconium Dioxide (Cubic form) · Simulated Gemstone / Collector Mineral
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); typically found as faceted stones or synthetic clusters
Mineral Group
Oxides (Synthetic)
Chemical Formula
ZrO2 (often stabilized with Y2O3 or CaO)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal or Skull Melt method (crystallized from molten zirconium dioxide at approx 2,750°C)
About This Crystal
A colorless, highly transparent synthetic gemstone with a vitreous to sub-adamantine luster and high dispersion, exhibiting rainbow flashes (fire).
Physical Characteristics
Color: Colorless (body), White (streak); Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 5.50–6.00; Fluorescence: Some yellow or greenish under UV.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 2.15–2.18 (Singly Refractive); Birefringence: None; Dispersion: 0.058–0.066 (higher than diamond).
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Laboratory-grown (primary production in Russia, China, and USA)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 8.0–8.5; Toughness: Medium; Stability: High thermal resistance but can chip under heavy impact.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water or ultrasonic; stay away from harsh acids; store separately to avoid scratching softer gems.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value: Low ($5-$20 per carat); Treatments: Sometimes coated (DLC) to improve hardness or change color.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional fire (dispersion) and high density (feels much heavier than a diamond of the same size).
Lore & History
Developed in the 1970s by Soviet scientists for laser technology; traditionally associated with clarity and focus in modern crystal work.