Cubic zirconia is a popular diamond alternative used in jewelry today. With its sparkle and affordability, it's easy to see why it's a favorite among many people. But when was cubic zirconia invented? In this article, we'll dive into the history of this gemstone and explore its journey to becoming a sought-after jewelry choice.
Cubic zirconia was first created in 1976 by two scientists named M. M. Sharma and Isidor Sauers at the Russian Academy of Sciences. The gemstone was created as a cheaper alternative to diamonds, which were expensive and not accessible to everyone.
The scientists' goal was to create a gemstone that was visually indistinguishable from a diamond. And they succeeded. Cubic zirconia has a similar visual appearance to diamonds, but it's actually made from a different material. While diamonds are made from carbon, cubic zirconia is made from zirconium dioxide.
After its creation, cubic zirconia quickly gained popularity and became a popular alternative to diamonds. It was first used in costume jewelry and then expanded to higher-end pieces. Today, cubic zirconia is commonly used in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and other jewelry pieces.
Affordability
One of the advantages of cubic zirconia is its affordability. Because it's a lab-created gemstone, it's much less expensive than diamonds. This means that people who may not have been able to afford diamond jewelry can now enjoy the beauty of a sparkling gemstone.
Durability
Another advantage of cubic zirconia is that it's incredibly durable. It's actually harder than most natural gemstones, including sapphires and rubies. This makes it an excellent choice for everyday wear, as it's less likely to become scratched or damaged.
While cubic zirconia may not be as valuable as diamonds, it's still a stunning gemstone that offers a lot of benefits. Its affordability and durability make it an excellent choice for those who want the beauty of a diamond without the hefty price tag. And, with its fascinating history, it's easy to see why cubic zirconia continues to be a popular choice for jewelry today.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cubic zirconia was invented in 1976 by M. M. Sharma and Isidor Sauers at the Russian Academy of Sciences. Since then, it has become a popular alternative to diamonds due to its affordability and durability. While it may not hold the same value as diamonds, it's still a beautiful gemstone that offers a lot of benefits. Whether you're looking for an engagement ring, necklace, or other jewelry piece, cubic zirconia is a great choice.