mineral

Cubic Zirconia

Zirconium dioxide (ZrO2)

Hardness: 8.0-8.5 Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless (can be tinted); Luster: adamantine; Crystal structure: isometric/cubic; Specific gravity: 5.50-6.00

Hardness: 8
Color: typically colorless (can be tinted)
Luster: adamantine

Identified March 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 8.0-8.5 Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless (can be tinted); Luster: adamantine; Crystal structure: isometric/cubic; Specific gravity: 5.50-6.00

Formation & geological history

Laboratory-grown/synthetic; naturally occurring baddeleyite is monoclinic, while the cubic form is stabilized with oxides like yttria or calcia at high temperatures

Uses & applications

Primary use as a diamond simulant in jewelry; also used in industrial thermal barriers and ceramic applications

Geological facts

First produced in high-quality bulk crystals by Soviet scientists in 1973; it is much heavier than a real diamond of the same size

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high dispersion (rainbow flashes), lack of natural inclusions, and extreme weight compared to glass or diamond; commonly found in commercially manufactured sterling silver or costume jewelry settings