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Step 1
Engagement ring from Asha DiamondsUnderstand the different types of cubic zirconia. Quality can vary greatly. Cubic zirconia has gone high tech and high end in the jewelry spectrum. High-quality stones include Winfields and Interlap brands. Premium cubic zirconia is available with an amorphous diamond coating, which reduces the windowing and shadowing that often give a cubic zirconia away as a fake. Asha is the most popular type of amorphous diamond, or hybrid stone, as it is sometimes called. For a less expensive standard cubic zirconia, look for the Signity brand.
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Step 2
Differentiate between synthetic and simulated stones. High-quality cubic zirconia stones haven't always been available and some vendors will shy away from using this as a description and instead call their product a synthetic diamond or simulated diamond. Currently, there are no synthetic (lab-created) white diamonds in mass production. Even the few that are being produced are quite small and are priced on par with a natural mined diamond. Asha or hybrid stones are available at a variety of retailers, including Better Than Diamond, Asha Diamonds and MiaDonna.
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Step 3
Old European cut Asha stoneRecognize the different cuts available in cubic zirconia. The cut of the stone is just as important as it is with a natural mined diamond. Look for professional jewelers who work with natural and simulated stones for the best cut stones. One of the largest selections of cubic zirconia stones can be found at CZ Jewelry Online. You can choose from virtually any size, shape and color stone.
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Step 4
Asha stone in a Roseco solitaire settingBe realistic about the size stone you are choosing. If you would like to pass the cubic zirconia off as a real diamond, then think about the size and style. No one knows your financial situation but you; however, if you tend to be financially conservative in other areas then a 5 carat cubic zirconia might be hard to pass off as real. Bottom line though, get what you love and what you will love wearing.
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Step 5
Choose a setting that would be used for natural diamonds in traditional metals, such as 14 karat white or yellow gold, or platinum. For one of the largest and most beautiful selections, visit Asha Diamonds. It uses only the amorphous diamond-coated cubic zirconia in its collection.
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Step 6
Design your own ring by purchasing the stone and setting separately, but make sure you use a jeweler who is experienced in working with simulated stones to do the setting. Cubic zirconia and hybrid stones will scratch easier than a diamond, so care must be taken in setting and polishing the stone to not abrade or overheat the cubic zirconia to avoid any damage.
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Step 7
Care for your ring using products designed especially for cubic zirconia, such as Gemcare. Rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab will also give your ring a nice shine. A high-quality stone, especially the coated stones such as an Asha, should remain brilliant and sparkly for years to come.
