Material: Zirconia stones consist of zirconium dioxide, which should not be confused with the mineral zircon (zirconium silicate).

Crystal structure: CZ has a cubic crystal structure similar to that of diamonds, which contributes to its diamond-like appearance.

Hardness: Zirconia stones have a hardness of 8.0-8.5 on the Mohs scale, making them hard but still softer than diamonds, which have a hardness of 10.

Optical properties: CZ has a refractive index of 2.15-2.18 and a high dispersion, which gives it a "fiery" and colorful light reflection pattern.

Zirconia stones are usually colorless but can be made in many different colors by adding specific elements during production, such as blue, green, red, yellow, and pink. They typically have no inclusions or flaws, giving them an almost perfect clarity. CZ is popular in jewelry such as rings, necklaces, and earrings due to its affordability and similarity to diamonds.

Although CZ is durable, it can be scratched more easily than diamonds, and over time the stone can become cloudy due to oil and dust. Regular cleaning can help maintain the stone's shine.

To best maintain your zirconia stones, it is recommended to:

Clean regularly: Use a soft cloth and lukewarm soapy water to clean the stones and remove accumulated oil and dust.

Avoid harsh chemicals: Zirconia stones can be damaged by harsh cleaning agents and chemicals, so it is best to avoid contact with them.

Store properly: Store the jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box to avoid scratches from other jewelry.

Rhinestones also require special care to preserve their shine and prevent them from falling off the jewelry:

Clean gently: Use a dry, soft cloth to gently wipe rhinestones. Avoid using water or liquids, especially on glued rhinestones, as this can loosen them.

Avoid moisture: Since many rhinestones are glued, moisture can affect the durability of the glue, so it is important to keep them away from water.

Handle with care: Be careful when handling jewelry with rhinestones to avoid damaging the glue or scratching the surface.

Materials: Rhinestones can be made from glass, acrylic, or crystal. High-quality rhinestones often use lead crystal glass to enhance their shine. The choice of material significantly affects the quality and price of rhinestones; crystal rhinestones typically have a higher shine and better durability than acrylic or glass rhinestones, which also makes them more expensive.

Types: There are several types of rhinestones, including glass rhinestones, crystal rhinestones, and acrylic or resin rhinestones. Crystal rhinestones, such as those from Swarovski, have increased brilliance due to their lead content.

Rhinestones are known for their high shine and ability to reflect light, giving them a diamond-like sparkle. They come in various shapes and sizes and are often used in costume jewelry, fashion, and DIY projects.

Cubic Zirconia Stones: Cubic zirconia stones are generally more expensive than rhinestones but still significantly cheaper than diamonds. The price varies depending on size and quality, but CZ offers a luxurious look at a fraction of the cost of a diamond.

Rhinestones: Rhinestones are more economical and are often much cheaper than cubic zirconia stones. The price depends on the material (glass, acrylic, or crystal), with crystal rhinestones typically being the most expensive due to their higher shine and quality.

Cubic Zirconia Stones: Cubic zirconia stones are often used in finer jewelry such as rings, necklaces, and earrings, where a look very similar to diamonds is desired but at a lower price. They are popular in engagement rings and other jewelry meant to be durable and exude luxury.

Rhinestones: Rhinestones are typically used in costume jewelry and for decorative purposes where price and availability are more important than durability. They are often used to embellish clothing, accessories, and DIY projects where shine and colorfulness are desired.

To distinguish between cubic zirconia stones and rhinestones, you can look at:

Shine: Cubic zirconia stones have a stronger shine and "fire" than rhinestones.

Color: Rhinestones can often have a wider range of colors and surface treatments, such as an iridescent coating, making them more colorful in appearance than cubic zirconia stones.

Clarity: CZ is usually flawless, while rhinestones can have irregularities.

Weight: CZ is denser and feels heavier than rhinestones.

Setting: CZ is often set with prong or bezel settings, while rhinestones are typically glued. If the stone is glued directly onto the jewelry, it is probably a rhinestone.

Detailed Cut: Cubic zirconia stones have a more precise faceting, which gives a more complex and reflective surface, while rhinestones typically have fewer and less detailed facets.

If you are looking for a stone that closely resembles the appearance and durability of a diamond, cubic zirconia stones are a good choice. They are ideal for formal events such as weddings, engagements, or other special occasions where luxury and elegance are desired. On the other hand, if you want an affordable and decorative solution for costume jewelry or projects, rhinestones may be the right choice. Rhinestones are perfect for more casual events, festive occasions, or DIY projects where shine and colorfulness are desired without high costs.

Both stones have their advantages and disadvantages, but the most important thing is to choose one that fits your budget and purpose.

You can do that with us. Here at Uniq Perler, we are a Danish retailer of jewelry materials and gemstones, where we also offer a beautiful selection of zirconia and rhinestones in various shapes, sizes, and colors.

If you are looking for jewelry parts with rhinestones, you can click here. Or you can check out our zirconia beads collection right here: Go to zirconia collection

Alternatively, you can also visit our physical store in Aalborg. Here you have the opportunity to personally select the perfect zirconia beads and rhinestone jewelry parts for your next jewelry project.

Click here and find our physical store