mineral

Cubic Zirconia

Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2)

Hardness: 8-8.5 Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless/clear; Luster: adamantine to brilliant; Crystal structure: isometric/cubic; Specific gravity: 5.6-6.0.

Hardness: 8-8
Color: typically colorless/clear
Luster: adamantine to brilliant

Identified June 13, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 8-8.5 Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless/clear; Luster: adamantine to brilliant; Crystal structure: isometric/cubic; Specific gravity: 5.6-6.0.

Formation & geological history

While naturally occurring as baddeleyite, jewelry-grade cubic zirconia is synthetically grown in laboratories using the skull melting process, where a cold crust of the material acts as a crucible for the molten center.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a diamond stimulant in jewelry (pendants, rings, earrings). Also used in industrial applications for precision cutting and heat-resistant components.

Geological facts

First synthesized in 1970 by Soviet scientists, it is much heavier than a natural diamond (about 1.7 times the weight for the same volume) and lacks the natural inclusions found in most earth-mined stones.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its excessive rainbow-colored 'fire' (dispersion) which is higher than diamond, and its rapid heat conduction. Often found in retail jewelry stores under brand names like CZ.