mineral (synthetic)

Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

Cubic Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2)

Hardness: 8.0–8.5 (Mohs); Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (Cubic); Specific Gravity: 5.6–6.0; Refractive Index: 2.15–2.18; Cleavage: None.

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

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral (synthetic) →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 8.0–8.5 (Mohs); Color: Colorless (in this specimen); Luster: Adamantine; Crystal structure: Isometric (Cubic); Specific Gravity: 5.6–6.0; Refractive Index: 2.15–2.18; Cleavage: None.

Formation & geological history

Synthetically produced in a laboratory using the skull melting process. While baddeleyite (natural ZrO2) exists, it is monoclinic; the cubic form is stabilized with oxides like yttrium or calcium during high-heat crystallization.

Uses & applications

Primary use as a diamond simulant in jewelry due to its high dispersion and brilliance; also used in optical applications and for industrial cutting tools.

Geological facts

CZ is a 'diamond simulant' but not a 'synthetic diamond' (which is pure carbon). It is heavier than diamond, weighing approximately 1.7 times more for a stone of the same size.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its lack of natural inclusions under magnification, its higher weight (specific gravity) compared to diamond, and high dispersion 'fire.' Found in nearly all retail jewelry stores globally.

Other mineral (synthetic) specimens

See all

Man-made Synthetic Material (Costume Faux Fur)

Synthetic Polymer (Polyester/Acrylic)

not a rock

Lava Stone and Chakra Beads

Basalt (with various mineral/synthetic beads)

igneous

Sodium Polyacrylate (Superabsorbent Polymer)

Sodium Polyacrylate [-CH2-CH(COONa)-]n

mineral (synthetic)

Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

Cubic Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2)

mineral (synthetic)

Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

Cubic Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2)

mineral (synthetic)

Pink Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

Zirconium Dioxide (ZrO2)

mineral (synthetic)