Cubic zirconias of various bright red colors. Artificial cubic zirconia stone. Cubic zirconia stone suits which zodiac sign, according to the horoscope

Soviet physicists created this gem by accident. Solving a serious problem, we got shiny crystals. They were loved by everyone who does not want to spend money on diamonds. Cubic zirconia stone is artificial, but obtained on a natural basis. Magicians and astrologers classify it as a magical and healing mineral.

History and origin

Cubic zirconia is a human creation and the triumph of technology in copying natural processes. The fate of the stone and its name is a plot for a detective story.

What is cubic zirconia

The crystals are obtained from zirconium dioxide. When processed, they almost copy a diamond in external and physical parameters, which is why in the Soviet Union artificial diamonds were called cubic zirconia.

There is a natural mineral of comparable qualities - tazheranite, found in the Tazheran Gorge near Lake Baikal. But its crystals are small, like jewelry, and are not used.

How it appeared

It was obtained artificially in the 1960s by physicists from the Lebedev Physical Institute of the Academy of Sciences. They called it by its first letters - FIANit.

Scientists experimented with a composition for the production of laser equipment, and the shiny material was considered defective production waste. Institute staff sorted the stones into souvenirs.

Enterprising citizens “helped.” Having brought the raw materials to marketable condition, they established sales to the West. At first they were delighted with the cheap “diamonds”. Then a scandal broke out and an investigation began. The traces led to the USSR.

The story was hushed up. The Europeans were uncomfortable with being fooled by the “backward Russians.” A limited circle of people in the Union knew about this, since the activities of FIAN were not advertised.

The party gave the task to scientists to create colored analogues of the stone for sale as jewelry. It was, of course, fulfilled; transparent multi-colored crystals at prices affordable for citizens filled jewelry stores. There was even a plan to release the stones.

Name confusion

The term “cubic zirconia” is used in the territory of the former USSR and Eastern Europe (former socialist countries). In the rest of the world, the material is known as zirconite, shelby, cubic zirconia, jevalite, and daimonsquay.

Sometimes cubic zirconia is called zircon or zirconium. But these are different things:

• cubic zirconia - synthetic, imitation diamond;
• zircon is an independent yellow-brown mineral;
• zirconium is a chemical element.

Misunderstandings arose because not everyone in the world wants to recognize the country's authorship. They also cannot forgive the embarrassment of half a century ago.

Physico-chemical properties

Cubic zirconia is an artificial material. The basic chemical formula of zirconium dioxide is changed by the components introduced during the synthesis of crystals.

The material is unstable, therefore it is supplemented with oxides of calcium, yttrium, and manganese. The structure of the crystal lattice and appearance resembles a diamond.

Production

The stones are synthesized using high-frequency melting. Process description:

1. The raw material (powdered zirconium oxide) is loaded into a container.
2. A high-frequency generator supplies energy that melts the inside.
3. Water circulating through the tubes prevents the temperature from rising above room temperature, so the outer layer of the substance remains cold and solid.
4. The melt cools to room temperature.
5. Columns 2 cm high and 2 cm in diameter are removed from the solid core.

The cycle is short: crystals grow by 8–10 mm per hour.

This is Soviet technology. It was invented by scientists, whom the state did not restrict in the use of resources. It is problematic for market conditions; even countries that bought it or received it from the USSR are simplifying production. But the resulting material is not cubic zirconia.

The cheapest are translucent, colorless or transparent crystals. Colored ones are more expensive: the external resemblance to precious gems is ensured by metal oxides and the subtleties of the process. The most expensive ones are multi-colored and imitation diamonds.

Varieties and colors

The description of cubic zirconia always includes color.

The classic stone is colorless. It is not a problem for technologists to create an example of almost any color, including three-color cubic zirconia.

The shade of the stone is created by the base substance:

For blue shades, use cobalt or aluminum. A lavender color is obtained, which natural stones do not have. But imitation of emerald color for cubic zirconia is still unrealistic. The maximum is a resemblance to chrysolite in golden-green shades.

In jewelry, the crystal duplicates precious stones of the first or second row:

• blue - topazes;
• green - chrome diopside;
• yellow - citrine;
• golden - chrysolite;
• red - garnet or ruby;
• blue - sapphire;
• purple - amethyst;
• black - carbonado.

Stones change color in daylight and artificial light. Comparable in luster to alexandrites, transparent yellow, green or brown samples become black or white after heat treatment.

Medicinal properties

Cubic zirconia has a dual nature - a natural base and a “diamond” structure, but an instantaneous, by nature’s standards, creation process. Its medicinal and magical properties give rise to controversy.

Lithotherapists who are fans of the stone believe that it heals the body. From it comes the energy accumulated by the base substance plus received during creation.

Contemplation of the stone improves mood, giving strength to recover from a nervous shock, serious illness or surgery.

Magic properties

Esotericists have established the ability of a stone to return to its owner the emotions or energy received from it. Therefore, when communicating with cubic zirconia, you need to be positive.

The magic of the stone is consonant with a person of any age, gender or profession. But this is the patron saint of scientists and creative people. The properties of cubic zirconia are useful for those who want to do a lot at once: visit more countries, perform at several concerts or performances. A ring or pendant is suitable for a person who works with large amounts of information.

The magical mission of cubic zirconia is to bring joy. And how can you not be happy when you buy a stone that is indistinguishable from an elite diamond or ruby? Subconsciously, the owner of the jewelry begins to believe in himself, set high goals and reach a new level of life.

The magical properties of the stone are useful for timid people with low self-esteem. Mercantile or impudent people are confident in his patronage. But it is advisable not to overdo it: the pebble will return unkind thoughts to the owner.

Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?

Any zodiac sign can use an artificial stone.

Astrologers say that the magical properties of colored cubic zirconia are distributed according to the elements:

• Water (Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio) - white or blue;
• Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) - rich yellow;
• Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) - green or black;
• Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) - red stones.

(“+++” - fits perfectly, “+” - can be worn, “-” - is strictly contraindicated)

Compatibility with other stones

According to the horoscope or energetically, an artificially created stone does not conflict with any gems.

Scope of application

Cubic zirconia was created for technical purposes; it is not a precious stone, but its main area of ​​application is jewelry. From abroad, stones come as zircons or cubic zircons.

Jewelry

This is a godsend and salvation for jewelry lovers for whom diamonds are financially inaccessible. A high-quality diamond cut has a high lower part and an almost flat upper part. This kind of cubic zirconia is expensive and is produced in small batches.

Price

Jewelry brands and workshops purchase crystals in bulk. A package of one hundred medium-sized stones costs $10–15 (the price of an average quality diamond is up to $5 thousand per carat).

The cost of cubic zirconia in the shades “ruby”, “sapphire”, “blue topaz” is twice as expensive as the standard ones. Pebble good quality 1.95 carats 7x5 mm are valued at $5, that is, the price per gram is about $12.

The price of products is determined by the precious setting, not the stone.

Gold (585th standard):

• engagement ring with cubic zirconia - up to $100–120;
• stud earrings - $45–75, dangling earrings - $220–350;
• pendant - from $20.

Silver (925 standard):

• ring - $25–75;
• pendant earrings - $150;
• pendant - from 10 $.

Buying stones as raw materials or without a setting is unprofitable: the finished product is 13–18% cheaper.

Prices allow you to purchase jewelry as a set. Even celebrities don’t shy away from this.

Who is it suitable for?

Wear jewelry with a stone at any time of the day. Silver ones are appropriate during the day and in the office, gold or platinum are attributes for ceremonial, important or evening outings.

• Earrings or pendant with cubic zirconia pink color suitable for a young girl.
• A multi-color crystal set in a brooch will soften the severity of a business suit.
• A signet made of white gold or platinum with a black stone is a worthy men's accessory. A brutal option is a steel frame.

The metal of the frame of an item determines whether it is a jewel or costume jewelry.

In the second case, the crystals are framed with cupronickel, jewelry alloy or steel. This is a youth option.

What to consider when choosing a product

The number and dimensions of stones create a varied effect:

• a single large cubic zirconia insert in the product emphasizes the sophistication of the image;
• a scattering of stones makes the decoration an original universal addition;
• in a product where a large gemstone plays the “first fiddle”, and small cubic zirconias complement it, the gemstone looks more expensive.

White cubic zirconia crystals can be combined with gold of any shade.

The stone looks advantageous in a rhodium-plated setting: its shine is enhanced and refined.

Other areas

Stones not used in jewelry go to other areas:

• optics - magnifying glasses and lenses;
• chemical industry - refractory compounds;
• dentistry - ceramic spraying.

The utilitarian properties of cubic zirconia are important here.

How to spot a fake

Of the artificial stones, cubic zirconia is considered the best imitation of a diamond, which is why they are counterfeited. The original Soviet technology is expensive. Not everyone follows it, which means the final product is of low quality.

Cubic zirconia and imitations

Stones made according to a simplified pattern are easy to recognize at home:

• a fake can be distinguished by its subdued shine (cubic zirconia sparkles strongly in the light);
• fake sizes up to 2 cm or larger (cubic zirconias are smaller than average or small);
• the general appearance of the imitation resembles colorless or colored glass.

The stone is characterized by a strong reflection of light from its bottom, so when viewed through the platform, almost nothing is visible behind it. You can see it better through the slightly shiny fake.

A popular “understudy” for diamond and cubic zirconia is Swarovski crystals made of glass or acrylic.

Diamond and cubic zirconia

There are several ways to distinguish a diamond from a cubic zirconia:

• drop fat on the surface - on a diamond it will remain in place, on an artificial crystal it will spread droplets;
• lubricate it with oil and try to attach it to the glass - only the diamond will stick;
• breathe on the sample - only cubic zirconia will fog up;
• count the facets - a diamond has a minimum of 57.

Diamond differs from cubic zirconia in structure: natural stone has inclusions, cubic zirconia is pure.

How to wear and care

Like any stones, cubic zirconias become dirty, dull, and dark when worn. But care is not difficult.

To make a crystal shine, the following methods are suitable:

• give it to a jeweler to clean;
• use a jewelry cleaning solution;
• soak in soapy water, rinse with clean water;
• cover the stone with toothpaste, remove the remains with flannel or cotton wool;
• dilute in water ammonia(1:6), immerse the crystal for 9–11 hours, rinse in water, dry.

The stone does not tolerate cosmetics well, household chemicals, absorbs oils. Jewelry is put on when makeup is applied. Take it off before doing housework or going to the shower.

The stone has negative characteristics. Easily scratched, vulnerable to wear and chips, and greenish-yellow hues from the sun. Over time, “clouds” appear in the crystal. The effect is known as optical degradation.

Favorable time to buy

Cubic zirconia is an artificial material; it can be purchased on any day of the lunar cycle. They start using products with cubic zirconia after two weeks - just like with a natural gemstone. He must also get used to his new home.

Transparent white crystal can be purchased like diamonds on the 15th lunar day. Wear at 29–30.

Cubic zirconia is a stone of synthetic origin. Its creation dates back to 1968. Optimal physical properties and noble appearance made him popular. Moreover, according to these characteristics, it is similar to a diamond. Let's look at the basic properties of cubic zirconia in more detail.

Let's consider general description gem. This transparent crystal contains zirconium with a hardness of up to 8 units on the Mohs scale. IN modern world proposed large number color solutions of the mineral. You can find jewelry with pink, blue, black, yellow stones. This factor depends on what impurities are involved in the production process of the product. It depends on the color, under what natural material cubic zirconia will be made - sapphire, garnet, diamond. To achieve this effect, certain impurities are added to the raw material in the form of chromium (for green), erbium (pink), and so on. The process of creating cubic zirconia is long and painstaking. However, despite the enormous effort, it is much cheaper compared to the natural extraction of other minerals.

Is cubic zirconia a gemstone?

It is difficult to meet a person who would not appreciate the pleasant shine of this gem. It captivates the eye, and its resemblance to a diamond makes it more noble and elite. The mineral is often called artificial diamond, zirconium, but it has no similarities with them. This is a direct invention of scientists, created in laboratory conditions. Since it is not inferior to diamond in aesthetic and physical indicators, it began to be actively used in the jewelry industry. But it is not a precious mineral.

Fionite stone is created artificially. It is a synthetic substitute for diamonds. Used in silver and gold jewelry. Small cubic zirconias are used as an addition. Their task is to add additional shine and shade to the main insert. The colorless fionite stone is difficult to distinguish visually from a diamond. Very popular inexpensive jewelry, decorated with cubic zirconia and gems.

It can have almost any color. It is determined by the quantity and chemical composition additives In terms of color palette, cubic zirconia can successfully compete with most precious and jewelry stones. It perfectly imitates pink-red spinels, Kashmir sapphire, rich amethysts, and aquamarines. Today, manufacturers of cubic zirconia have learned to give it shades not found in natural stones. This makes it possible to further diversify the world of jewelry.

Fionite stone is processed by machine, in almost any type, shape and type of cut. As a rule, this is a classic round diamond cut. Large cubic zirconia inserts are extremely rare.

Fionite is a stone whose meaning is quite difficult to describe.

He has a special character. When adding certain impurities, a completely unique stone. Its color, shine and beauty are unique. Initially, the stone resembles a completely empty vessel. Each person who becomes its owner is able to fill it with something of his own, deeply personal, which will make it absolutely priceless. Desires give a stone special properties that can characterize only this stone and no other.

Astrologers believe that since cubic zirconia was created artificially, it cannot have any properties inherent natural stones. As stated earlier, everyone who wears this stone endows it with certain properties. That is why fionite stone can be worn by representatives of all zodiac signs. Gradually, he absorbs the emotions, feelings, and impressions of the owner.

He is able to enhance them several times. In this regard, the owner of cubic zirconia should control his emotions so as not to suffer from them later. All travelers, journalists and those who travel to distant lands are recommended to wear fionite.

A stone whose zodiac sign is not defined can easily be spoken, giving it absolutely any properties. This should be done very carefully and only by those who know this matter well.

Some call it loneliness, due to the fact that it always plays a secondary role. Nevertheless, he is able to help and bring good luck in life. It will help you achieve what you want and give you confidence on your trip. With it, you will return home sooner and avoid many troubles. If your activity is related to movement, curiosity, and the presence of many impressions, then you are recommended to wear cubic zirconia. It will give you strength and help you find what you have been looking for for a long time. In addition, looking at a thing decorated with these beautiful stones certainly lifts your spirits. Which is also important.

Revelations soon followed. It turned out that the decorations playing with light had nothing to do with crystalline carbon. All of them were a special type of crystalline zirconium oxide. , at that time no one knew...

The police have opened a case. In the end it turned out that the artificial crystals were imported from the USSR. Artificial mineral – white cubic zirconia. The investigation showed: an initiative group, inspired by the successes of Soviet physicists, organized an underground workshop for cutting synthetic zirconium dioxide crystals and established a distribution channel for its products to the West.

The shop was closed without much noise. No one was punished particularly severely: just think, enterprising people dumped a kilogram of waste from experimental production abroad. They sold junk glass to stupid rich people for the price of diamonds... Once again turned the capitalists' noses into their own promiscuity and greed!

The production experience of underground jewelers was adopted by the state. Coming soon jewelry stores The Soviet Union shone with new precious stones, proudly bearing the name of the famous academic institute. Advertising photos of cubic zirconia glorified the achievements of Soviet scientists who cared about the welfare of the people.

The offended capitalists struck a pose and refused to call the mineral by its rightful name - and still refuse.

Affordable price is a significant advantage of cubic zirconia

Experiments - as always happens - did not immediately give the required result. A number of crystals of insufficient quality for a laser turned out to be unclaimed. And they were taken apart by workers as funny souvenirs...

It was these stones that subsequently came to Europe. Thus, by the early 70s jewelry properties cubic zirconia turned out to be highly valued - although not quite legally...

One way or another, soon the institute’s laboratories received a new task: to create colored crystals suitable for processing into jewelry inserts. At the same time, the price of cubic zirconia had to remain affordable for Soviet citizens.

The physicists fulfilled the party's instructions with honor. A state plan was established for the production of each variety.

The cost of cubic zirconia does not depend on its color

The commercial weight of cubic zirconia was calculated in kilograms. The industry received a sparkling stone reminiscent of blue sapphire, purple amethyst, bright yellow citrine, topaz of all natural shades, scarlet garnet, pink spinel...

Emerald green cubic zirconia did not work out: the introduction of chromium into the melt gave only a golden-green imitation of peridot. But black cubic zirconia perfectly imitated both brown morion quartz and carbonado - black diamond.

Among other things, the consumer was offered jewelry cubic zirconia in color scheme, uncharacteristic of natural stones. Bright red cubic zirconia replaced a ruby ​​of the rarest quality. The lavender shade of artificial stone allowed artists to create sets of jewelry with extraordinary emotional expressiveness.

And although the cost of multi-colored zirconium dioxide crystals was different, the state averaged the markup: the people, the party decided, are not obliged to think how much cubic zirconia costs, but should gratefully accept the care.

Is the artificiality of stone good or evil?

Today, designer sets made of steel with cubic zirconia are produced and successfully sold - and the color of the compositions can be maintained in tones that leave no doubt about the artificial origin of the material.

Art critics' opinions were divided. Defenders of traditions are sure: a steel ring with an artificial diamond is costume jewelry, low art. Advocates of a progressive approach to life insist: the transformation of concepts is inevitable. In a piece of jewelry, the main thing is not the cost of materials, but the aesthetic message. Even plastic earrings (imitation red coral) decorated with red cubic zirconia (brilliance superior to natural garnets) are high art!

The level of discussion is growing due to objective factors: the production of natural diamonds has long been ahead of demand, and the upcoming arrival on the market of processed diamonds illegally accumulated in Africa will certainly collapse the global jewelry trade.

However, today the price difference between artificial and natural stones such is that the question of how to distinguish a diamond from cubic zirconia is becoming more and more relevant...

Cubic zirconia is an artificial crystal grown from zirconium dioxide, which has no analogues in the world. Cubic zirconia is an artificial crystal grown from zirconium dioxide, which has no analogues in the world.

In the late 60s, cubic zirconia first appeared in a photo of a Soviet newspaper, and due to its similarity with, it gained high popularity in various industries: jewelry, chemical industry and optics.

There are several ways to distinguish cubic zirconia from a diamond:

1. Cut shape. Cubic zirconia has rounded edges. The edges of a diamond are always sharp.
2. Hardness. The stability of cubic zirconia is one third lower than that of a natural mineral, which means that scratches may appear on its surface.
3. Shine. Without polishing, cubic zirconia will fade over time. A diamond shines even when neglected.
4. Thermal conductivity. The cubic zirconia heats up in the palms, but the diamond always remains cold. Despite the difference, cubic zirconia can replace any jewelry, as it is available to everyone, regardless of financial situation.

Due to their characteristics, stones can imitate the color of almost all precious minerals. To produce colored crystals, special metal impurities are used to form certain shades of stones, for example:

• chrome – green;
• cerium – yellow, red and orange;
• erbium – pink;
• titanium – golden;
• neodymium – purple.

By experimenting with various combinations of these elements, scientists were able to create an amazing variety of minerals, which made it possible to diversify jewelry.

Magical properties of cubic zirconia

Despite his artificial origin, cubic zirconia has a special magic of stone. He, like an empty vessel, is able to be filled with surrounding energy. Buying cubic zirconia is not recommended for a person in a bad mood.

Therefore, it is best to purchase jewelry with these minerals during a favorable period of life, full of positive events. Having been charged with positive energy, the owner of the stone will be able to get it back in order to get rid of sadness and increase his vitality.

It is not recommended to purchase cubic zirconia stones from resellers, since it is possible that the crystals have already absorbed someone else’s energy. However, to protect yourself, the stone can be cleansed of accumulated negativity in two ways: lower it into spring water or hold it over a fire.

The magical properties of the stone are suitable for creative individuals; such amulets can enhance creative thinking and awaken inspiration.

Astrologers are confident that amulets with this stone can save a person from possible dangers on the way, bring good luck and prosperity. These properties of crystals will benefit travelers, athletes and sailors.

Cubic zirconia is a symbol of happiness and success; it will be a wonderful gift for newlyweds, protecting the family from quarrels and giving peace of mind.

Medicinal properties

An interesting fact is that gems are able to heal the body by absorbing diseases, infections and stopping tumors. Often such jewelry is given to pregnant women to reduce pain during childbirth.

Cubic zirconias can enhance medicinal properties others precious stones, and go well with , and .

Who is suitable for cubic zirconia according to their zodiac sign?

Because of its characteristics, white cubic zirconia is considered universal, common to all zodiac signs.

Compatibility of cubic zirconia by zodiac sign. Table 1.

To understand which stone suits your horoscope, you need to choose the colors of the amulet according to your influencing element. Crystals of blue, blue and black shades are suitable for Cancers, Pisces and Scorpios.

Fire elements - Leo, Sagittarius and Aries - should choose bright stones of red or garnet colors.

Yellow minerals are ideal for all Air signs. The combination of yellow stones with citrine has a beneficial effect.

Capricorns, Taurus and Virgos - representatives of the Earth element - should wear cubic zirconia in green and black shades.

In order for cubic zirconia jewelry to be useful for as long as possible, you should be careful when storing the stone. Crystals should be stored in a soft case, separate from other gems.

The attractive appearance of the stones can be restored using a soap solution and soft napkins, or taken to a jewelry workshop for cleaning. At proper care cubic zirconia will always delight with its enchanting shine and positive energy.