Its been the norm that people believed if their diamond could scratch glass, then it was real. While this may be a damaging truth to genuine gems, many fake diamond jewelry do as well. Over the years, the craftsmanship of a diamond simulant (notably cubic zirconia (CZ) selections) has been constructed to fool a variety of interested parties, including jewelers who use the naked eye as their guide towards authenticity. Today, there is a multitude of techniques that help individuals purchase genuine diamonds and not fall victim to extremely convincing fakes.
An important part of detecting a real diamond is to recognize the characteristics that make cubic zirconia both similar and different from genuine diamonds. For starters, CZ possesses a hardness of 8.3 on the Mohs scale compared to the diamond's hardness of 10. While CZ can come in colored or colorless versions like real diamonds, they are optically flawless, whereas a diamond always contains some sort of flaw or defect in their composition.
While trained gemologists are seasoned in the ways of detecting a simulated diamond, the untrained eye may also catch on to glaring inconsistencies. For example, the color of a CZ may display a gray tone when exposed to prolonged amounts of sunlight. In many cases, individuals prefer to run specific tests on their diamond to make sure it is real. They wish to verify authenticity by checking qualities, such as the weight, thermal conductivity, light dispersion, visual optics, refractive index, and level of fluorescence.
An array of diamond tests exists with some better suited for unmounted diamonds than ones placed in a setting. Below is a run-through of some of the most commonly used methods of diamond detection:
Some individuals have been able to detect cubic zirconia by marking their stone with a grease pencil or felt-tipped pen. Since natural diamonds attract grease and a cubic zirconia jewelry does not, a simulant will repel grease. The transparency of a stone is also helpful. If you are able to turn over your gem and read through it after placing it over newsprint, chances are you do not possess a real diamond. It is important to know that this test is not 100% reliable, as some real diamonds are cut shallow and will fail this test.
The facet edges of a stone also establish authenticity. A cubic zirconia often showcases chipping or slightly rounded edges. When the edges of a stone are not sharp, you may suspect that your gem is not a real diamond.
With the "fog test," one may create fog on their gem in the same manner they would a mirror. If the stone stays fogged for 2 to 4 seconds, you may have a CZ on your hands because a real diamond instantly disperses heat before you can indicate fog. The disadvantage with this test is that accumulated dirt and oil on a stone will affect reliability.
Some people use the "U.V. test" to weed out diamond impostors and prove the worth of their gem. A high percentage of diamonds produce the color blue when placed under a black light (ultra violet light). This is often a good test since 99% of all diamond simulants do not. Seeing a medium to strong blue color is a good indication that you possess a diamond. On the downside, it also proves the worth of your gem. Diamonds with blue fluorescence are sometimes 20% less in value than those that do not. Therefore, not seeing blue fluorescence doesn't necessarily mean the stone is a cubic zirconia, but instead, may indicate a diamond with higher value.
Carat or gram scales come in handy to authenticate a diamond by analyzing its weight. Cubic zirconia weighs about 1.7 times more than diamonds under the same dimension and shape conditions.
With the "loop test," visual characteristics of a diamond are analyzed through a magnifying lens to establish its true identity. One should look for the cuts of the diamond (facets), check the girdle (frosty and faceted means diamond, waxy and glossy means it is a fake), spot small cracks and pinpoints (characteristics of a diamond), and locate setting stamps. Stamps that show "10K, 14K, 18K, 585, 750, 900, 950, PT, Plat" increase the chances of possessing a real diamond because CZ is not often set in real gold or platinum.
Overall, it is important to know that not all the tests and techniques used to differentiate a cubic zirconia from a real diamond are 100% reliable and conclusive. Often times, a diamond that passes an assortment of tests with flying colors can be trusted as a natural diamond.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Mens Cubic Zirconia Rings and Other Cubic Zirconia Jewelry
If you want the benefits and the great looks of a diamond ring, necklace, or any other type of jewelry piece, but do not want or can’t pay the high price for a diamond then you should consider Cubic Zirconia also known as CZ stones. You may ask what is cubic zirconia? A cubic zirconia stone is basically the substitute for a diamond. Known for it’s great resilience and hardness, a rate of 8.5 on the Mohs scale for hardness, it does a great job keeping up with the resilience and fire that a diamond gives off as well.
Discovered in the 1930s by German scientists, cubic zirconia doesn’t naturally grow in nature. As a matter of fact it hasn’t been discovered in any other site anywhere around the world except at that particular place and that one time by the two German mineralogists von Stackelberg and Chudoba. Later on in the early 1970s Russian scientists discovered how to create cubic zirconia stones in their laboratories and by 1977 cubic zirconia began to be marketed under the name of Djevalite.
Soon in the 1980s cubic zirconia started to become popular among consumers and more jewelry designer companies and crystal and gem companies started to produce and market these stones in greater quantities. Cubic zirconia gets it’s name from the fact that it is the cubic form of zirconium oxide mixed in with yttrium oxide which acts as a stabilizer, to produce some of the most resilient and fiery looking stones almost exceeding the resilience and and fire of a diamond.
In fact, cubic zirconia looks so much like a diamond that it takes a specialized gemologist to look closely at the stone to make sure it is not a diamond. As mentioned earlier cubic zirconia is used today in a wide array of jewelry, but it is more popular among rings. Cubic zirconia rings have become the standard for men and ladies if you are looking for some bling on a budget.
The most popular rings designed with cubic zirconia stones are ladie’s engagement rings and men’s wedding bands. As you know when a lady receives an engagement ring they want for the stone in the ring setting to sparkle and glimmer brightly. Cubic zirconia engagement rings will give off just that and more because the cubic zirconia is hight quality but at a fraction of the cost of a diamond engagement ring.
Men look great wearing mens cubic zirconia rings as well and can be used as wedding bands, mens engagement rings, promise rings and of course fashion rings. Another benefit of CZ jewelry is that the stones can come in just about any color of the rainbow which in turn introduces many styles and many options for both men and women to choose from.
So consider a cubic zirconia ring for your next buy, especially if your budget doesn’t permit you to purchase a diamond ring. You might be surprised at how close these stones look to diamonds and the best part about it is that no one else has to know the secret of your bling but you. Please watch the two videos below to get an idea of how beautiful cubic zirconia rings are for both men and ladies.
Discovered in the 1930s by German scientists, cubic zirconia doesn’t naturally grow in nature. As a matter of fact it hasn’t been discovered in any other site anywhere around the world except at that particular place and that one time by the two German mineralogists von Stackelberg and Chudoba. Later on in the early 1970s Russian scientists discovered how to create cubic zirconia stones in their laboratories and by 1977 cubic zirconia began to be marketed under the name of Djevalite.
Soon in the 1980s cubic zirconia started to become popular among consumers and more jewelry designer companies and crystal and gem companies started to produce and market these stones in greater quantities. Cubic zirconia gets it’s name from the fact that it is the cubic form of zirconium oxide mixed in with yttrium oxide which acts as a stabilizer, to produce some of the most resilient and fiery looking stones almost exceeding the resilience and and fire of a diamond.
In fact, cubic zirconia looks so much like a diamond that it takes a specialized gemologist to look closely at the stone to make sure it is not a diamond. As mentioned earlier cubic zirconia is used today in a wide array of jewelry, but it is more popular among rings. Cubic zirconia rings have become the standard for men and ladies if you are looking for some bling on a budget.
The most popular rings designed with cubic zirconia stones are ladie’s engagement rings and men’s wedding bands. As you know when a lady receives an engagement ring they want for the stone in the ring setting to sparkle and glimmer brightly. Cubic zirconia engagement rings will give off just that and more because the cubic zirconia is hight quality but at a fraction of the cost of a diamond engagement ring.
Men look great wearing mens cubic zirconia rings as well and can be used as wedding bands, mens engagement rings, promise rings and of course fashion rings. Another benefit of CZ jewelry is that the stones can come in just about any color of the rainbow which in turn introduces many styles and many options for both men and women to choose from.
So consider a cubic zirconia ring for your next buy, especially if your budget doesn’t permit you to purchase a diamond ring. You might be surprised at how close these stones look to diamonds and the best part about it is that no one else has to know the secret of your bling but you. Please watch the two videos below to get an idea of how beautiful cubic zirconia rings are for both men and ladies.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Guide in Buying Men's Titanium Rings
Men's titanium rings effect depends on how men carry himself. The important thing these days is that men's rings don't look like they were before - simple and boring. Nowadays, mens titanium steel jewelry rings provide a great look for men who want to exude masculinity and personality.
Mens titanium rings, although less delicate than the ladies' versions, can be polished, etched, braided, twisted, knotted, embellished with gemstones, cubic zirconia, diamonds, tanzanite, or have cables passed between spaces or grooves in the band. There are many styles that incorporate gold, white gold and platinum to create a two-tone effect or give subtle accents to the ring.
Special Men's Titanium Rings
Men's titanium rings are easier to find than rings in gold or silver because many designers and jewelers create their pieces from titanium knowing that the men who choose this metal are already untraditional. They also come in different textures, colors and ring designs.
Although pure titanium is called "white" there are many black rings and brushed, etched or frosted titanium can come in blues, greens and burgundy colors. There are some varieties of mens rings that are especially unusual with wood inlays.
Titanium rings for men have gained popularity because they are so versatile: casual examples are good for everyday while a custom ring will give a distinctive personal touch. Men can also opt to purchase titanium wedding bands for their special day to express the solidarity of their love to their women and loyalty.
Mens titanium ring settings have evolved a lot since they first appeared on the market and now include brand name designers and jewelers who understand the difference between men's jewelry and women's jewelry. And although titanium can be for the ladies as well, it lends itself best to masculine styles and the extra durability men require in their jewelry.
Mens titanium rings, although less delicate than the ladies' versions, can be polished, etched, braided, twisted, knotted, embellished with gemstones, cubic zirconia, diamonds, tanzanite, or have cables passed between spaces or grooves in the band. There are many styles that incorporate gold, white gold and platinum to create a two-tone effect or give subtle accents to the ring.
Special Men's Titanium Rings
Men's titanium rings are easier to find than rings in gold or silver because many designers and jewelers create their pieces from titanium knowing that the men who choose this metal are already untraditional. They also come in different textures, colors and ring designs.
Although pure titanium is called "white" there are many black rings and brushed, etched or frosted titanium can come in blues, greens and burgundy colors. There are some varieties of mens rings that are especially unusual with wood inlays.
Titanium rings for men have gained popularity because they are so versatile: casual examples are good for everyday while a custom ring will give a distinctive personal touch. Men can also opt to purchase titanium wedding bands for their special day to express the solidarity of their love to their women and loyalty.
Mens titanium ring settings have evolved a lot since they first appeared on the market and now include brand name designers and jewelers who understand the difference between men's jewelry and women's jewelry. And although titanium can be for the ladies as well, it lends itself best to masculine styles and the extra durability men require in their jewelry.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Men's Titanium Rings and its Significance
For those who aren't already familiar with the trend, mens titanium rings are becoming more and more common in today's marketplace. This lightweight and durable metal offers a neutral or silver gray coloration, which makes it a perfect compliment to jewelry collections that already feature white gold, platinum, stainless steel and/or sterling silver.
When it comes to shopping for jewelry, many consider rings to be among the most popular choice. Of all types of jewelry, rings remain one of the few accessories that the wearer can actually see and enjoy without having to look in the mirror. Like all other rings, titanium rings are available in a variety of designs and sizes. Because this metal is lightweight, wearers often find that they can get a bold look at a fraction of the price that they may pay for a similar design in precious metals.
In addition to providing a lightweight and affordable presence, mens titanium steel jewelry rings may potentially offer comfort to those who have sensitivity to some types of metal. Although not certified as being hypo-allergenic, titanium is thought to be a jewelry metal that some people who are metal-sensitive can wear with comfort.
If you are in the market for titanium rings, you will find styles that are created specifically for men, women and even some unisex designs. Band rings, which are commonly used as titanium wedding rings, are also popular styles to be worn as right-hand rings. From highly polished to those with texture, these stylish rings offer many of the same designs as one would expect to find in precious metal. It's affordability and strength allow this metal to remain an economical choice for anyone looking to purchase titanium wedding bands, or upgrade to a new style without spending a fortune.
When choosing titanium rings, whether for yourself or someone else, make sure to pay close attention to the ring size. Because this metal may not be sizable by your local jeweler, it is important to purchase the correct ring size for the wearer. If you are uncertain as to what size to order, most jewelers can gauge your ring size with a professional sizing tool. Once you know the correct ring size to purchase, you can shop online with ease.
Speaking of shopping online, don't forget to browse the internet for a wide selection of quality jewelry accessories at competitive pricing. If you plan to make a jewelry purchase online, always shop with a reputable business. It's a good idea to check the company's return policy incase you need to request a refund or exchange. When you find the perfect ring at the right price from a respectable business, you will have found the perfect fit in more ways than one.
When it comes to shopping for jewelry, many consider rings to be among the most popular choice. Of all types of jewelry, rings remain one of the few accessories that the wearer can actually see and enjoy without having to look in the mirror. Like all other rings, titanium rings are available in a variety of designs and sizes. Because this metal is lightweight, wearers often find that they can get a bold look at a fraction of the price that they may pay for a similar design in precious metals.
In addition to providing a lightweight and affordable presence, mens titanium steel jewelry rings may potentially offer comfort to those who have sensitivity to some types of metal. Although not certified as being hypo-allergenic, titanium is thought to be a jewelry metal that some people who are metal-sensitive can wear with comfort.
If you are in the market for titanium rings, you will find styles that are created specifically for men, women and even some unisex designs. Band rings, which are commonly used as titanium wedding rings, are also popular styles to be worn as right-hand rings. From highly polished to those with texture, these stylish rings offer many of the same designs as one would expect to find in precious metal. It's affordability and strength allow this metal to remain an economical choice for anyone looking to purchase titanium wedding bands, or upgrade to a new style without spending a fortune.
When choosing titanium rings, whether for yourself or someone else, make sure to pay close attention to the ring size. Because this metal may not be sizable by your local jeweler, it is important to purchase the correct ring size for the wearer. If you are uncertain as to what size to order, most jewelers can gauge your ring size with a professional sizing tool. Once you know the correct ring size to purchase, you can shop online with ease.
Speaking of shopping online, don't forget to browse the internet for a wide selection of quality jewelry accessories at competitive pricing. If you plan to make a jewelry purchase online, always shop with a reputable business. It's a good idea to check the company's return policy incase you need to request a refund or exchange. When you find the perfect ring at the right price from a respectable business, you will have found the perfect fit in more ways than one.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Buying Men's Titanium Rings
Titanium is the embodiment of masculinity, strength and durability. The metal is increasingly used as a base for both men's and women's rings. The bold designs and its durability seem particularly well suited for ring designs for men who love fashion jewelry. So for people who want to choose a metal that will look good for many years men's titanium wedding rings are just the thing. With a wide variety of styles and grades of titanium, choosing men's titanium rings is only difficult because of the quantity of choice available.
Titanium Grades
There are nearly thirty different grades of titanium. They are ranked by the tensile strength of the metal. Pure titanium has the lowest tensile strength and additives such as oxygen and iron increase the tensile strength. The more additives at the trace level in the titanium, the higher the tensile strength and the harder the resulting metal. In addition to iron traces in titanium metal, other elements that can affect the hardness of the resultant metal include aluminum, tin, molybdenum, vanadium, zirconium, palladium, nickel, chromium, silicon, niobium and ruthenium. Men's titanium rings are at the upper end of the hardness scale, and are more likely to resist scratching and scuffing.
Good for someone with allergy
Some men are unable to wear silver or gold rings, acidic skin and Nickel alloys are commonly the cause of allergic reactions to jewelry. Men's titanium steel jewelry rings, on the other hand are nickel free so they easily pass the European Union nickel ban imposed in 2000. According to the standards, in order to be rated 'nickel free' there can be a maximum of .05% nickel. Approximately ten percent of the population suffers from skin irritation when exposed to nickel. Since titanium is inert, there are no known cases of allergic reactions to the metal.
Cannot be tarnish
Skin oils and perspiration does not result in rust spots on men's titanium wedding rings or other titanium jewelry. This makes titanium the perfect metal for those who work hard at difficult jobs. The titanium never rusts or tarnishes, thanks to its inert nature. There are no chemical reactions when the ring or jewelry is placed next to the skin. The luster of the metal is not extinguished by exposure to air or by contact with the skin. In addition to being used for rings, titanium makes the ideal metal for pierced earrings or other body jewelry.
The Freshest Fashion in Wedding Bands
Men's titanium wedding bands are showing increasing popularity amongst those who wear wedding rings. The first unusual feature in today's wedding band is the composition of the metal. Titanium is very strong, rust and tarnish proof and is very lightweight, making it possible to go bold in the appearance of the ring without feeling weighted down by the jewelry. For a man who wears a wedding band, the tensile strength and resistance to wear and tear make the titanium metal band a sure bet for long lasting future.
Titanium Grades
There are nearly thirty different grades of titanium. They are ranked by the tensile strength of the metal. Pure titanium has the lowest tensile strength and additives such as oxygen and iron increase the tensile strength. The more additives at the trace level in the titanium, the higher the tensile strength and the harder the resulting metal. In addition to iron traces in titanium metal, other elements that can affect the hardness of the resultant metal include aluminum, tin, molybdenum, vanadium, zirconium, palladium, nickel, chromium, silicon, niobium and ruthenium. Men's titanium rings are at the upper end of the hardness scale, and are more likely to resist scratching and scuffing.
Good for someone with allergy
Some men are unable to wear silver or gold rings, acidic skin and Nickel alloys are commonly the cause of allergic reactions to jewelry. Men's titanium steel jewelry rings, on the other hand are nickel free so they easily pass the European Union nickel ban imposed in 2000. According to the standards, in order to be rated 'nickel free' there can be a maximum of .05% nickel. Approximately ten percent of the population suffers from skin irritation when exposed to nickel. Since titanium is inert, there are no known cases of allergic reactions to the metal.
Cannot be tarnish
Skin oils and perspiration does not result in rust spots on men's titanium wedding rings or other titanium jewelry. This makes titanium the perfect metal for those who work hard at difficult jobs. The titanium never rusts or tarnishes, thanks to its inert nature. There are no chemical reactions when the ring or jewelry is placed next to the skin. The luster of the metal is not extinguished by exposure to air or by contact with the skin. In addition to being used for rings, titanium makes the ideal metal for pierced earrings or other body jewelry.
The Freshest Fashion in Wedding Bands
Men's titanium wedding bands are showing increasing popularity amongst those who wear wedding rings. The first unusual feature in today's wedding band is the composition of the metal. Titanium is very strong, rust and tarnish proof and is very lightweight, making it possible to go bold in the appearance of the ring without feeling weighted down by the jewelry. For a man who wears a wedding band, the tensile strength and resistance to wear and tear make the titanium metal band a sure bet for long lasting future.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
The Reason Why Men Like Titanium Wedding Rings More!
We all know that men are very particular to the rings they use. Some even don't like wearing it. Often, you will find men who won't even wear a wedding band. They may not like the feminine way a ring feels on their finger - or they may fear that rings won't withstand the stresses of their job if they work with their hands. These men are a perfect candidate for titanium wedding bands.
Titanium is a durable metal that is more comfortable to wear than steel. These mens titanium rings can withstand the elements, since the material wears better than traditional silver or gold. Titanium rings are great when you want a lightweight, but sturdy ring. Since titanium wedding bands are very difficult to scuff or scratch, they are a great choice for the active man!
Jewelry and rings that are right for allergy sufferers can be difficult to find. Most people think of using gold when they have metal allergies but Titanium is hypoallergenic and becoming an affordable way to enjoy fashion jewelry! It has a more modern look and will last much longer than many fashion jewelry pieces.
Titanium wedding bands can be found with gold or sterling inlays, providing a classy way to make a masculine statement. They can come in a simple polished band, or with a decorative edge. You can also have titanium rings set with gems. A titanium wedding rings set will make a serious and long lasting statement.
A popular choice for men's wedding rings is a titanium band with a carbon fiber inlay. This is an elegant, simple, and timeless design of ring that creates a striking look. It will bring pleasure for years to come. In fact - a titanium wedding band will look as beautiful on each anniversary as it did at the wedding!
For the man who wants a more sophisticated style, a flat top ring with a cubic zirconia makes a great conversation piece and mens titanium steel jewelry too. The choices are almost endless for your look of originality!
Titanium is a durable metal that is more comfortable to wear than steel. These mens titanium rings can withstand the elements, since the material wears better than traditional silver or gold. Titanium rings are great when you want a lightweight, but sturdy ring. Since titanium wedding bands are very difficult to scuff or scratch, they are a great choice for the active man!
Jewelry and rings that are right for allergy sufferers can be difficult to find. Most people think of using gold when they have metal allergies but Titanium is hypoallergenic and becoming an affordable way to enjoy fashion jewelry! It has a more modern look and will last much longer than many fashion jewelry pieces.
Titanium wedding bands can be found with gold or sterling inlays, providing a classy way to make a masculine statement. They can come in a simple polished band, or with a decorative edge. You can also have titanium rings set with gems. A titanium wedding rings set will make a serious and long lasting statement.
A popular choice for men's wedding rings is a titanium band with a carbon fiber inlay. This is an elegant, simple, and timeless design of ring that creates a striking look. It will bring pleasure for years to come. In fact - a titanium wedding band will look as beautiful on each anniversary as it did at the wedding!
For the man who wants a more sophisticated style, a flat top ring with a cubic zirconia makes a great conversation piece and mens titanium steel jewelry too. The choices are almost endless for your look of originality!
Friday, April 23, 2010
Men's Titanium Bracelet - A Statement of Elegance
These days it is possible to benefit from the style and luxury as well as make your own personal fashion statement even if you happen to be a male. It's easy to choose among the many varieties of manly wrist jewelry that is certainly fast becoming an essential for every men who care about fashion and style. The most famous known design jewelry for men has to be titanium, and there is no uncertainty about this statement.
The mens titanium bracelet can be a highly complementary addition for any man who has a trendy and discerning taste. Although these pieces of masculine jewelry come in different styles and sets of bracelets, cuff links, keychain and money clip; the most important one in the whole list is the wrist wear. It is the one striking piece that will instantly catch the eye every time you outstretch your hand to greet or shake another person's.
This piece of high quality mens titanium steel jewelry is beautiful and elegant. Most people also prefer masculine titanium wrist jewelry as the perfect gift for the most important men in their lives. With a very light and comfortable feel on the wrist, the exquisite modern designs are unique in their quality and look. They are durable and remain looking perfect forever, for they do not lose their luster and shape. Most celebrity sportsmen, athletes, golfers and even stars wear this type of jewelry on their wrists.
You can never go wrong with a titanium bracelet. More and more men are choosing to match their designer look with one of these amazing pieces. Take the Titanium and Black Resin which give a variety of designs featuring a cross-inspired theme. The clasps are also becoming more innovative with some taking the form of lobster- claws; others are in the form of handcuffs to clasp the bangle on the wrist. Make a fashion statement that you are a man of style and taste; go for mens titanium bracelet.
The mens titanium bracelet can be a highly complementary addition for any man who has a trendy and discerning taste. Although these pieces of masculine jewelry come in different styles and sets of bracelets, cuff links, keychain and money clip; the most important one in the whole list is the wrist wear. It is the one striking piece that will instantly catch the eye every time you outstretch your hand to greet or shake another person's.
This piece of high quality mens titanium steel jewelry is beautiful and elegant. Most people also prefer masculine titanium wrist jewelry as the perfect gift for the most important men in their lives. With a very light and comfortable feel on the wrist, the exquisite modern designs are unique in their quality and look. They are durable and remain looking perfect forever, for they do not lose their luster and shape. Most celebrity sportsmen, athletes, golfers and even stars wear this type of jewelry on their wrists.
You can never go wrong with a titanium bracelet. More and more men are choosing to match their designer look with one of these amazing pieces. Take the Titanium and Black Resin which give a variety of designs featuring a cross-inspired theme. The clasps are also becoming more innovative with some taking the form of lobster- claws; others are in the form of handcuffs to clasp the bangle on the wrist. Make a fashion statement that you are a man of style and taste; go for mens titanium bracelet.
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