At Natkina, we pride ourselves on being leaders and experts in Switzerland, specialising in the creation of exquisite jewellery using 58-facet cubic zirconia. This cutting-edge technology sets us apart, offering you the brilliance of diamonds at a fraction of the cost. Let’s explore what makes this technology so special and why it’s the perfect choice for your next jewellery purchase.Why 58 Facets Make Our Cubic Zirconia the Ultimate Diamond Alternative
The allure of a diamond is primarily due to its cut. The 58-facet cut, often called the "round brilliant cut," is standard in both diamonds and high-quality cubic zirconia (CZ) gemstones. This cut, with 33 facets on the crown and 25 on the pavilion, maximizes light reflection and refraction, creating a dazzling display of brilliance and fire.
Our stones are closely modelled after diamonds by using this precise 58-facet cut on cubic zirconia. The symmetry and proportion of the facets guarantee that light entering the stone reflects internally and externally, enhancing its sparkle and making it nearly indistinguishable from a natural diamond to the naked eye.
Historical Context and Development of the Technology
The 58-facet cut has a rich history, dating back to the 17th century with the Mazarin cut, an early precursor to the modern brilliant cut. Marcel Tolkowsky perfected the 58-facet design in the early 20th century, calculating the ideal proportions for maximizing a diamond's brilliance and fire. This method was later adapted for cubic zirconia, a synthetic gemstone developed in the 1970s, to create high-quality diamond alternatives.
Brands Using 58-Facet Cut Technology
Several luxury jewellery brands have embraced the 58-facet cut for their cubic zirconia collections:
- Natkina: As a leader in the industry, Natkina utilizes the 58-facet cut to produce exquisite jewellery that rivals the brilliance of natural diamonds. Our commitment to quality and craftsmanship ensures that each piece is a true work of art.
- Ziamond: Known for high-quality, hand-cut cubic zirconia, Ziamond uses the 58-facet cut to enhance visual appeal, offering a variety of sizes and colours.
- Luxuria Diamonds: Specializes in precision-cut cubic zirconia stones, often employing the "Hearts and Arrows" cut pattern, a variation that enhances the stone's optical properties.
- Birkat Elyon: Uses a 58-facet cut for their 5A grade cubic zirconia, ensuring maximum brilliance and clarity. Their stones are hand-cut and polished to reflect the highest standards of craftsmanship.
Celebrity Endorsements and Historical Tidbits
Over the years, many celebrities have chosen cubic zirconia jewellery for its stunning appearance and ethical advantages. Stars like Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe were known to appreciate the sparkle of cubic zirconia in their jewellery collections. More recently, Hollywood icons like Angelina Jolie and Scarlett Johansson have been seen wearing CZ pieces on the red carpet, showcasing that luxury and affordability can go hand in hand.
Interestingly, the development of cubic zirconia as a diamond alternative began in the 1970s, but it wasn't until the 1980s that it gained widespread popularity. This surge was partly due to advancements in cutting technology, allowing CZ to closely resemble the fire and brilliance of natural diamonds.
Resources and Expertise Required
Producing high-quality 58-facet cubic zirconia involves several key resources and expert techniques:
- Superior Raw Materials: Selecting top-grade cubic zirconia rough, free from inclusions and imperfections.
- Expert Artisans: Skilled gem cutters execute the precise and intricate cuts required for the 58-facet design.
- Advanced Cutting Tools: Precision cutting tools and technologies achieve the exact angles and depths needed for each facet.
- Stringent Quality Control: Rigorous quality checks ensure each stone meets the highest standards of clarity, symmetry, and brilliance.
Emphasise the Visual Appeal of 58-Facet Cubic Zirconia
Enhanced Brilliance and Fire: The 58-facet cut maximizes brilliance and fire, making CZ stones almost indistinguishable from high-quality diamonds. Each facet is angled to capture and reflect light, creating an intense and vibrant display.
Superior Craftsmanship: Cutting cubic zirconia to have 58 facets requires exceptional skill and precision. Experienced gem cutters meticulously shape each stone, ensuring every facet is perfectly aligned and polished. This results in a gemstone that is both beautiful and a testament to the artistry of the craftspeople involved.
The Look of Luxury at a Fraction of the Cost: 58-facet cubic zirconia offers the luxurious look of diamonds without the high price tag. This affordability allows more people to enjoy exquisite, sparkling jewellery.
Versatile and Timeless Design: 58-facet cubic zirconia stones are incredibly versatile, suitable for a wide range of jewellery designs. Whether used in engagement rings, earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, these stones add elegance and timeless beauty to any piece.
Ethically Sourced and Environmentally Friendly: Choosing cubic zirconia is also an ethical and environmentally friendly option. Unlike natural diamonds, CZ is lab-created, avoiding environmentally destructive mining practices and ethical concerns.
| Feature | 58-Facet Cubic Zirconia | Lab-Grown Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Brilliance and Fire | Excellent sparkle due to 58 facets, with a refractive index of 2.15-2.18. Mimics the brilliance of diamonds. | Superior brilliance and fire with a refractive index of 2.42. Identical to natural diamonds. |
| Cost | Affordable, typically $20-$100 per carat. Allows for larger, more extravagant pieces without high costs. | More expensive, ranging from $800-$4,000 per carat. Cheaper than natural diamonds but still a significant investment. |
| Durability | Hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale. Durable but more prone to scratching and abrasion compared to diamonds. | Hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. Extremely durable, resistant to scratching, suitable for lifelong wear. |
| Ethical and Environmental Impact | Synthetic, produced without mining. Environmentally friendly and avoids conflict diamond issues. | Produced in controlled environments with advanced technology. Reduced environmental footprint and no conflict diamond concerns. |
| Versatility in Design | Versatile, suitable for a wide range of jewellery designs. Affordable for larger and more intricate pieces. | Also versatile, used in high-end, luxurious designs. Ideal for lifelong, significant pieces of jewellery. |
| Maintenance | Easy to maintain with simple cleaning solutions like mild soap and water. Regular cleaning keeps stones brilliant. | Requires minimal maintenance, can be cleaned with professional solutions. Extremely durable and long-lasting. |
| Customisation Options | Available through brands like Ziamond and Luxuria. Custom cutting services for unique, personalised pieces. |
Customisable, with various cuts and settings available. Perfect for bespoke jewellery. |
58-Facet Cubic Zirconia: Offers an affordable, brilliant alternative to diamonds with significant ethical and environmental benefits. It's perfect for those looking for beauty without the high cost.
Lab-Grown Diamonds: Provides the same properties as natural diamonds with superior durability and ethical production. Ideal for those willing to invest in high-quality, long-lasting jewellery.
By focusing on these practical benefits and unique advantages, you can see why 58-facet cubic zirconia is an exceptional choice for high-quality, affordable, and ethical jewellery. It offers a perfect blend of visual appeal, ethical sourcing, and cost-effectiveness, making it an outstanding alternative to traditional diamonds. Whether you're seeking brilliance, affordability, or ethical integrity, 58-facet cubic zirconia from Natkina stands out as the superior choice.
