CUBIC ZIRCONIA, APRIL'S ALTERNATIVE BIRTHSTONE
You’d be forgiven for thinking that anyone celebrating an April birthday had seriously lucked out by having the diamond as their official birthstone. After all, what's better than arguably the most prized gemstone of them all?
But let’s face it. Diamonds are seriously expensive. Not to mention the fact that they also carry a serious environmental and ethical cost. Which can all add up to April babies feeling priced out and uneasy when it comes to birthstone jewellery.
But there’s no reason why the Aries amongst you should miss out. Not when there’s an affordable and sustainable alternative to diamonds that shines just as bright in April birthstone jewellery: cubic zirconia.
Cubic Zirconia, or CZ as it’s known, has historically been a somewhat misunderstood stone so we’re here to set the record straight with everything you need to know about this dazzling beauty.
What’s the difference between Cubic Zirconia and Diamonds?
In a nut shell, the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia jewellery is the fact that diamonds are naturally occurring whilst CZ is man-made. Importantly though,there is very little visible difference between the two.
Just like diamonds, CZ are gorgeously clear stones that emit a radiant shine when light hits them. CZ also offer the same long-lasting durability as diamonds which is why the stone features in our stainless steel birthstone jewellery that’s been designed to stand the test of time.
April babies have a choice of chain colour's as our gorgeous CZ pendant necklace is available as both a gold chain necklace and a silver chain necklace. We also have matching CZ gold stud earrings or silver stud earrings so you can complete the set.
Why Should You Choose Cubic Zirconia Instead of Diamonds?
So why else should those of you looking to treat yourself to a special piece of birthstone jewellery - or those wanting to do the same for a friend - choose CZ instead of diamonds? Another reason is their price, both literally and metaphorically. A brief history of the stones will tell you more.
What is Cubic Zirconia (CZ) made from?
Natural diamonds are formed when deposits of carbon way down in the earth (90 to 125 miles down in fact!) are subject to extreme heat and high pressure. This process can take millions – sometimes billions - of years and the stones then need to be extracted using potentially harmful mining processes.
Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is a diamond simulant made through a similar process but in a lab using a material called zirconium dioxide. This actually results in a more flawless stone as cubic zirconia is not susceptible to the blemishes and flaws that occur in natural diamonds. Just one reason to consider CZ as an alternative for your Aries Birthstone Jewellery.
Are Diamonds Worth The Money?
There’s no getting around the fact that diamonds are extremely costly. And depending on where you shop, the high cost won’t always equate to better quality stones. Some shady diamond sellers will more than happily take your money in exchange for an inferior product. So you can easily find yourself paying way over the odds if you don’t do your research.
But even the finest diamonds might not exactly be worth what you think they are. It wasn’t until huge deposits of diamonds were found in South Africa in 1938 that companies embarked on a strategy to market diamonds as incredibly valuable and rare in order to sell them for higher prices. In fact, it wasn’t until the “diamonds are forever” advertising campaign in 1947 by the diamond company, De Beers, that diamond engagement rings suddenly boomed in popularity with overinflated price tags to match.
How Expensive is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic Zirconia is more readily available than diamonds meaning you get all the brilliance, clarity and durability without breaking the bank. And you don’t need to compromise on quality either. Just like Diamonds, CZ stones are valued according to the Four Cs (cut, clarity, colour and carat). meaning you can pay slightly more for more skilfully created pieces.
This abundance and affordability of CZ makes it more versatile for everyday wear. Which is why you can choose to buy your birthstone jewellery in a variety of quirky shapes like our CZ Daisy Stud Earrings or CZ Star Climber Earrings. There’s no need to stick to simple cuts like there is with other gems!
Why Can Diamonds Be Unethical?
As well as being expensive, diamonds also have an ethical and environmental cost. Violence, exploitation and unsafe working conditions are all common and serious problems in diamond mines. In fact, up to a staggering 25% of diamonds sold today are a product of human rights abuses or conflict.
Irresponsible mining, such as water pollution and deforestation, has also led to irreversible damage to the environment. On top of this, huge amounts of harmful carbon is emitted into the air during the diamond mining process causing further damage to the natural world – something you don’t need to worry about when you choose lab created CZ birthstone jewellery.
How Do You Care For CZ Jewellery?
The strength and durability of CZ stones means it’s possible to use methods such as ultrasonic cleansing to keep your jewellery looking it’s best. But good old fashioned soap and water works just as well too.
All you need to do is soak your cz jewellery in warm water with added detergent before removing the dirt gently with a soft toothbrush.
Choosing your Cubic Zirconia Birthstone Jewellery
So there you have it. If you’re wanting an unproblematic April birthstone necklace or a set of April birthstone earrings that has the some look, brilliance and sparkle of diamonds, CZ is the gem for you. The only difficulty now is choosing which piece to go for as there really is something for everyone.
For some timeless glamour, look no further than a pair of our circular cubic zirconia stud earrings which are available in six different sizes to suit both adults and little ones. They’re also great as part of a multi-piercing curated ear.
We also have some gorgeous CZ paved rings which would make the perfect birthstone gift for that special someone in your life. Or for a similarly romantic gesture, there’s our classic CZ heart-shaped studs which are again available in multiple sizes to suit the wearer.
If you’re looking for a piece of April birthstone jewellery for a friend, then our Sparkle CZ Hypoallergenic Bracelet makes a cute alternative to a classic friendship bracelet. Like most of our jewellery, it’s available in two colour options as, unlike some gemstones, CZ stones equally suit being set within gold jewellery as they do within silver. Choose the silver bracelet if you’re wanting something elegant and chic or opt for the gold bracelet if being on-trend is more their vibe. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find apiece of CZ birthstone jewellery to suit their style.
APRIL BIRTHSTONE JEWELLERY
We have a 100% happiness guarantee, in the unlikely event you have a reaction, or simply don't like the jewellery after trying on you can send back for a refund.
Clear Cubic Zirconia Bezel Set Hypoallergenic Stud Earrings - April
Clear Cubic Zirconia Bezel Set Hypoallergenic Necklace - April
Clear Cubic Zirconia Hypoallergenic Earrings
Square Clear Cubic Zirconia Hypoallergenic Earrings
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