Cubic zirconia, often shortened to CZ, is a lab-made crystal of zirconium dioxide. It is clear, hard and cut to sparkle like a diamond, at a fraction of the price. It is not the same as zircon, which is a natural mineral.
At DANSK Copenhagen, we set cubic zirconia in waterproof 316L stainless steel, so you can wear the sparkle every day.
What does "cubic zirconia" mean?
"Cubic" describes the shape of its crystal structure, and "zirconia" refers to zirconium dioxide, the material it is made from. On a jewellery label, it means the design is set with a lab-created stone chosen for clarity and sparkle.
Is cubic zirconia a real stone?
Cubic zirconia is a real crystal, but it is made in a laboratory rather than mined. It has been used in jewellery since the 1970s.
Because it is lab-made, every stone is clear and consistent. It can also be made in colours, which is why we use it for our birthstone necklaces.
Pavé or solitaire?
Small CZ stones set close together, called pavé, give a soft shimmer that suits everyday wear. A single larger stone, called a solitaire, gives a bolder focal point. Choose pavé if you want your jewellery to whisper, and a solitaire if you want it to lead.
Cubic zirconia vs diamond vs zircon
| Cubic zirconia | Diamond | Zircon | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Made in a lab | Natural or lab-grown | Natural mineral |
| Material | Zirconium dioxide | Carbon | Zirconium silicate |
| Hardness (Mohs) | About 8–8.5 | 10 | About 7.5 |
| Sparkle | Bright, rainbow-like fire | Bright, white brilliance | Bright, often coloured |
| Price | Affordable | High | Varies |
How can you tell cubic zirconia from a diamond?
CZ shows more rainbow-coloured flashes in light, while a diamond reflects more white light. CZ is also slightly heavier for its size. A jeweller can tell them apart in seconds with a simple tester.
Is cubic zirconia good for everyday jewellery?
Yes. At around 8 on the Mohs scale, it is hard enough to resist everyday scratches. It keeps its sparkle with a gentle wipe.
Set in waterproof steel, it can stay on in the shower and at the gym. Every DANSK Copenhagen design is waterproof and hypoallergenic.
How to wear cubic zirconia jewellery
- Everyday: small CZ studs or a fine pendant add light without looking dressed up.
- Ear stacks: mix one CZ stud with plain hoops for contrast.
- Evening: layer a CZ necklace with a polished chain, or wear one ring with a bold stone.
Explore our jewellery with cubic zirconia, including earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings.
How do you clean cubic zirconia jewellery?
Soak it in lukewarm water with a drop of mild soap, brush gently behind the stone with a soft toothbrush and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Frequently asked questions
What does cubic zirconia mean on a jewellery label?
It means the design is set with cubic zirconia, a lab-created crystal of zirconium dioxide cut to sparkle like a diamond.
Is cubic zirconia the same as zircon?
No. Cubic zirconia is a lab-made crystal of zirconium dioxide. Zircon is a natural mineral made of zirconium silicate.
Does cubic zirconia get cloudy?
CZ itself does not cloud easily. Lotion and soap can leave a film, which a gentle clean removes.
Is cubic zirconia waterproof?
The stone is not affected by water. When it is set in waterproof 316L stainless steel, like ours, the whole design can be worn in water.
No stockist near you yet? Get in touch and we'll do our best to find one in your area.
