Because rhinestones and cubic zirconia both sparkle like diamonds, they are used to adorn jewelry and accessories such as belts, bras, and even cellphones. Though they can be easily confused, these two gemstone subsitutes actually have very little in common, in terms of price, manufacturing, and durability. Rhinestones are typically made from naturally occurring quartz crystals, while cubic zirconia are synthesized in laboratories.
Manufacturing
The biggest difference between rhinestones and cubic zirconia is in how they are made. The first rhinestones came from quartz crystals from the Rhine River in Germany, hence their name. The highest quality rhinestones are still made from cut quartz crystals, though more inexpensive rhinestones can be made out of glass, acrylic, or paste. On the other hand, cubic zirconia are synthetically made out of zirconium oxide to simulate the appearance of a diamond. These imitation gemstones are not true minerals. Setting
When making jewelry out of rhinestones and cubic zirconia, manufacturers generally set the two in different types of metal. Rhinestones are usually set in brass to take advantage of the reflective quality of the metal backing, which gives the rhinestone its sparkle. Since cubic zirconia resemble diamonds and don't require extra help to reflect light, these gem substitutes are frequently set in precious metals such as gold and silver.
Durability
While neither rhinestones nor cubic zirconia are as durable as a diamond or other hard gemstone, a rhinestone can be damaged more easily. Since rhinestones require a metal backing to sparkle, their backs will tarnish over time. They can also be damaged by moisture. Over time, cubic zirconia may yellow or chip, but they can get wet without losing their sparkle since these gem substitutes are set in silver or gold. However, the silver setting may tarnish.
CostRhinestones generally cost less than cubic zirconia since they are made out of a variety of different materials, with those made from cut quartz costing more than those made from plastic. You will likely pay more for a cubic zirconium since it generally resembles a diamond, is set in a precious metal, and must be manufactured in a laboratory.
*Cleaning & Caring Tips
With wide range of inspirational styles jewelry to match with different themes of fashion, you can have variety choice to pair your own unique styles, and what a waste to found that your unique piece is not in wearing conditions anymore.
Here's a little tips to pro-long fashion jewelry life span.
Tarnish
(cause by the interaction of jewelry surface with certain elements, example: oxygen/ sulfur/ as well as with certain acid which result oxidation)This occur especially on silver/ white gold/ gold plated jewelry
How to Avoid?
- Avoid contact with rubber band (the sulfur in rubber is a catalyst for tarnish)- Any medication/ chemical/ lotion/ perfume etc. that changes the acidity of your skin may cause silver jewelry to tarnish. Try not to spray on the parts that contact with your jewelry
- Don't wear fine jewelry when shower, doing housework or gardening.
How to Take Care
- Store silver in a dry container or a plastic bag with anti-tarnish paper- Do not use toothpaste as its abrasives can damage softer gems and metals.
- All fine jewelry can be safely cleaned by soaking for 10 minutes in warm soapy water (using a non-detergent soap). Use a soft brush on harder gems to loosen any dirt around the prongs.
- Thoroughly dry after exposure to water or any type of liquid.
*Tips on Necklace
Collar Necklace (Length Approx : 40 cm)Collar necklaces lie snugly around the middle of the neck. They are a must-have when wearing V-necks, boat necks, and off-the-shoulder fashions.
Choker Necklace (Length Approx : 40-45 cm)
Both classic and versatile, falls perfectly around the base of the neck. A simple necklace matches any outfit and just about any neckline.
Princess (Length Approx :45-50 cm)
As the most popular necklace length, the princess necklace is best suited for crew and high necklines, falling just below the throat.You can wear the princess length as a contrast to low, plunging necklines. Add a pendant for a bold, eye-catching look."
Matinee ( Length Approx : 50-65 cm)
Longer than the princess necklace, and slightly shorter than an opera length, this length necklace is the right choice for casual or business dress.
Opera (Approx : 65-75 cm)
The opera necklace is the longest of all lengths. Wear it as a single or double strand. Perfect for high or crew necklines, its versatility allows the opera necklace to transform from day to evening wear with elegant ease.
Rope (At least 75 cm above)
The versatile rope necklace is a must-have accessory! Infinitely elegant and classic, this necklace dresses up any outfit night or day. Often, hidden clasps placed in strategic locations allow this necklace to be transformed into multi-strand necklace and bracelet combination.*Suitable Earring, Tips?
Earrings are a wonderful fashion companion that perk up your face and made you look classy and fabulous anytime with any fashion, but here is some tips to chose for the BEST
If you have round Face /Wide
Look for - Long Earrings (it will make face look slimmer)Avoid - Large Circular Earrings , Hoops and Studs
If you have Long Face/ Skinny face
Look For - Round Earrings and Hoops (it will make your face look fuller)Avoid - Long Earrings
Square Jaw
Rounded edges or oval shapes soften things up. Circular earrings and Hoops will work.Heart Shaped Face
Counterbalance your sharp chin with chandelier or tear drop earrings that fill in the bottom half of your face.Oval Shaped Face
You can wear almost anything, but triangular earrings or simple studs will show off your lovely cheekbones best!Large ear lobes
Wear tiny earrings is a NO NO. This will make your lobes seem larger. Instead, go with dangles or large hoops which will draw the eye downward away from your ears.The other thing you need to keep in mind when selecting earrings is the type of neckline you will be wearing.Long earrings will lengthen a long face and if you have a short neck make your neck look shorter, However, life is not about looking perfect!!! Don’t be the boring perfectionist ^.^
If you you see a pair of longish earrings that you just adore because they are just “so you”,… or, that for example, have beautiful stones in them that make your eyes sparkle like diamonds, get them ,why not. Earring length isn’t everything. Go ahead and break the rules sometimes. Follow your heart and be true to yourself to find your own unique style
FEELS GOOD LOOKS GOOD
