Cubic Zirconia

What is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic Zirconia is similar in appearance to natural diamonds, making it one of the most popular man-made stones. Natural and lab-grown diamonds are composed of carbon, while cubic Zirconia consists of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2). Cubic Zirconia can also occur in a variety of colors. These stones provide distinctive and affordable substitutes for fancy colored diamonds, or colored gemstones, such as emerald, ruby, and sapphire. If you're on a budget, cubic Zirconia will be a great, inexpensive option for your engagement ring, usually priced at less than $100.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 2.150-2.182
- Optical Character
- Isotropic
Discover Values
This stone excels in beauty.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Cubic Zirconia before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Cubic Zirconia Localities Map
See where Cubic Zirconia is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Composition of Cubic Zirconia
Zirconium dioxide
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, pink, green
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 8 - 8.5
- Density
- 5.6 - 6 g/cm³
- Luster
- Sub-adamantine
- Crystal System
- Isometric
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- ZrO2
- Elements
- O, Zr
Also Known As

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Cubic Zirconia FAQs
How do I identify Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic Zirconia can be identified by its hardness of 8 - 8.5 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color, Sub-adamantine luster, Isometric crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic Zirconia typically appears in Colourless, pink, green. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic Zirconia has a hardness of 8 - 8.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
What is the composition of cubic zirconia of Cubic Zirconia?
Zirconium dioxide