FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic Zirconia (or CZ) is zirconium oxide (ZrO2 ), is widely synthesized for use as a diamond simulant and it is a lab made created stone with a specific gravity of between 5.6-6.00 and at about 8.5 hardness on Mohs scale, which is harder than most natural gems. Its refractive index is high at 2.15 - 2.18 (B-G interval) and its luster is very good. Its dispersion is very high at 0.058 - 0.066, exceeding that of diamond (0.044).
Cubic Zirconia (CZ) vs. Natural Diamond
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is so optically close to diamond that only a trained eye can easily differentiate the two. There are a few key features of CZ which distinguish it from diamond, some observable only under the microscope or loupe. For example:
Dispersion: With a dispersive power greater than diamond (0.066 vs. 0.044) the more prismatic fire of CZ can be seen by even an untrained eye.
Hardness: CZ has an 8.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale vs. a rating of 10 for diamonds. Meaning CZ can only be scratched by sapphires or diamonds.
Specific gravity: CZs are heavyweights in comparison to diamonds; a CZ will weigh about 1.7 times more than a diamond of equivalent size. Obviously, this difference is only useful when examining loose stones.
Flaws: Contemporary production of cubic zirconia is virtually flawless. Whereas most diamonds have some sort of defect, be it a feather, included crystal, or perhaps a remnant of an original crystal face (e.g. trigons).
Refractive index: G> CZ has a refractive index of 2.176, compared to a diamonds 2.417
Dispersion: With a dispersive power greater than diamond (0.066 vs. 0.044) the more prismatic fire of CZ can be seen by even an untrained eye.
Hardness: CZ has an 8.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale vs. a rating of 10 for diamonds. Meaning CZ can only be scratched by sapphires or diamonds.
Specific gravity: CZs are heavyweights in comparison to diamonds; a CZ will weigh about 1.7 times more than a diamond of equivalent size. Obviously, this difference is only useful when examining loose stones.
Flaws: Contemporary production of cubic zirconia is virtually flawless. Whereas most diamonds have some sort of defect, be it a feather, included crystal, or perhaps a remnant of an original crystal face (e.g. trigons).
Refractive index: G> CZ has a refractive index of 2.176, compared to a diamonds 2.417
What is Synthetic Stones?
Synthetic gemstones are grown in a laboratory instead of being formed in the ground by nature. They are physically and chemically identical to natural-grown gems but cost much less to produce and to buy.
Just like natural gems, synthetics vary tremendously in quality and it takes several months to create a batch of gems. Using low-quality processes, synthetic sapphires and rubies can be created for less than a dollar a carat, whereas high-quality synthetics can cost a hundred times more to create and sell for several hundred dollars a carat at retail.
Just like natural gems, synthetics vary tremendously in quality and it takes several months to create a batch of gems. Using low-quality processes, synthetic sapphires and rubies can be created for less than a dollar a carat, whereas high-quality synthetics can cost a hundred times more to create and sell for several hundred dollars a carat at retail.
Hydrothermal Method
High quality emerald, as well as the less common aquamarine, morganite, and beryl, can be lab grown by the hydrothermal method. It uses a water solution at very high temperature and pressure and takes several months to create a batch of gems. That’s one of the reasons higher quality created gems cost so much more.
How can I complete the order?
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Can I combine items and ship them together? How much does it cost?
Yes you can. There is not any charge from us for this combining. Please kindly inform us by email which items would you like to combine and ship them together.
Payment
We accept payment in the following forms:
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What is your Refund Policy?
We never refund for Custom Made Gems for it is especially made and cut for you. Please place a Sample Order first to see the cut and justify the quality before placing bulk orders to avoid any dispute and misunderstanding between both parties. Postage will not be refunded.
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