gemstone

Cubic Zirconia (Faceted)

Zirconium dioxide (ZrO2)

Hardness: 8-8.5 Mohs; Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Specific Gravity: 5.6-6.0; Dispersion: Very high (0.058-0.066)

Hardness: 8-8
Color: Colorless (in this specimen)
Luster: Adamantine

Identified July 10, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 8-8.5 Mohs; Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Specific Gravity: 5.6-6.0; Dispersion: Very high (0.058-0.066)

Formation & geological history

Synthesized in laboratories through the skull-melting process to create a synthetic crystalline material that mimics diamond. Naturally occurring baddeleyite is rare and does not form large crystals suitable for faceting.

Uses & applications

Mainly used as a low-cost diamond simulant in jewelry, as well as in industrial applications requiring high thermal resistance and durability.

Geological facts

Cubic zirconia is significantly heavier than diamond (about 1.7 times the weight for the same size) and has more 'fire' or dispersion, meaning it reflects more colorful light than a natural diamond.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high dispersion (rainbow flashes) and lack of inclusions under magnification. In the field, a simple breath test or a digital thermal conductivity tester can distinguish it from real diamond.