When it comes to choosing green gemstones, many people are faced with the decision between natural green emeralds and green cubic zirconias. While emeralds have long been cherished for their historical significance and natural beauty, green cubic zirconia stones are increasingly gaining popularity due to their numerous advantages. In this article we will explore why green cubic zirconia stones are often considered better than green emerald gemstones, highlighting factors such as cost, durability, aesthetics, ethical considerations, and versatility.
Table of Contents
1. The Cost Efficiency of Green Cubic Zirconias
One of the most compelling reasons to choose green cubic zirconia over green emeralds is the significant difference in cost. Natural emeralds are among the most expensive gemstones due to their rarity and the complex mining process involved in extracting them. High-quality emeralds can command prices that are prohibitive for many consumers, especially those looking for larger stones or elaborate jewelry designs.
In contrast, green cubic zirconia offers a visually appealing alternative at a fraction of the price. As a lab-created gemstone, cubic zirconia can be produced in large quantities, ensuring a stable and affordable supply. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking the look of an emerald without the hefty price tag. The cost savings also allow for more creative freedom in jewelry design, as larger and more intricate pieces become financially feasible.
2. The Durability and Hardness of Green Cubic Zirconias
Durability is another area where green cubic zirconia often outshines green emeralds. On the Mohs scale of hardness, emeralds typically score between 7 and 7.5, making them relatively hard but still susceptible to chipping and cracking, especially if they contain inclusions (internal flaws), which are common in natural emeralds. These inclusions can weaken the stone and make it more vulnerable to damage.
Green cubic zirconia, on the other hand, scores an 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale. While slightly harder than emeralds, cubic zirconia is also more resistant to chipping and breaking due to its uniform structure and lack of inclusions. This makes cubic zirconia a more durable choice for everyday wear, particularly in rings and bracelets that are subject to more impact and abrasion.
3. The Aesthetics and Brilliance of Green Cubic Zirconias
Aesthetically, green cubic zirconia stones offer a level of brilliance and clarity that is often difficult to find in natural emeralds. Emeralds are prized for their deep, rich green colour, but this colour can be uneven, and the stones often contain visible inclusions and fractures. These natural flaws can detract from the overall appearance of the gemstone.
Green cubic zirconia is manufactured to be flawless
In contrast, green cubic zirconia is manufactured to be flawless, with perfect clarity and a uniform, vibrant color. The controlled production process ensures that each stone meets high standards of quality, resulting in a gemstone that sparkles brilliantly in any light. For those who prioritize visual perfection in their jewelry, green cubic zirconia offers a consistently stunning appearance that is hard to match with natural emeralds.
4. The Ethical and Environmental Considerations of Green Cubic Zirconias
The ethical and environmental implications of gemstone mining are increasingly important to consumers. Traditional emerald mining can have significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution. Additionally, the mining industry has been associated with human rights abuses, including poor working conditions and unfair labor practices.
Emerald mining can have significant environmental impacts, including habitat destruction, soil erosion, and water pollution.
Green cubic zirconia, being a lab-created stone, offers a more sustainable and ethical alternative. The production of cubic zirconia requires fewer natural resources and has a much smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional gemstone mining. Furthermore, the controlled conditions in which cubic zirconia is produced ensure that labor practices are more likely to be fair and humane. For environmentally conscious consumers, this ethical advantage can be a decisive factor in choosing green cubic zirconia over natural emeralds.
5. The Crescent Stone Ring by Rahaima
The versatility of green cubic zirconia also makes it a preferred choice for many jewellery designers and consumers like myself. Due to its affordability and consistent quality, green cubic zirconia can be used in a wide range of jewelry pieces, from statement necklaces and elegant earrings to everyday rings and bracelets. The Crescent Stone Ring by Rahaima is a beautiful and innovative design without worrying about the prohibitive costs associated with natural emeralds.
The Crescent Stone Ring by Rahaima is a beautiful and innovative design
Additionally, green cubic zirconia can be easily paired with other metals, allowing for greater creativity and customisation in jewellery pieces. The Crescent Stone ring by Rahaima is set in Sterling Silver which gives the ring a contemporary style. This means that if you are looking for a ring that delivers on uniqueness, shine and makes a statement, then the crescent stone ring is your number one choice.
6. Conclusion to Green Cubic Zirconias
While natural green emeralds have their own charm and historical allure, green cubic zirconia stones offer a compelling alternative that excels in several key areas. The cost efficiency, durability, aesthetic appeal, ethical considerations, and versatility of green cubic zirconia make it an attractive choice for both jewelers and consumers. For those seeking the beauty and elegance of a green gemstone without the associated high costs and ethical concerns, green cubic zirconia stands out as the superior option.
As the demand for sustainable and affordable luxury continues to grow, green cubic zirconia is poised to become an increasingly popular choice in the world of fine jewellery.
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