Friday, March 7, 2008

How Designer Gemstones Are Made From Cubic Zirconia And Other Gemstones

Designer gemstones are now available in many colors through a patented process owned by Azotic Coating Technology. This coloring process allows gemstones that would normally be white or colorless to be coated with a choice of over 1800 distinct colors. The method has been used on topaz, sapphires, quartz, and cubic zirconia with topaz being the one used most. The way that this is done is by scattering tiny flakes of mineral oxide which produce a diverse array of colors when reflected through the stone. Once this process is completed the gemstone goes through a process of heating that seals the coating to the stone.

After the coloring is completed the stones are sent back to the wholesalers that the company gets them from. The quality of the stones is entirely in the hands of the wholesalers as Azotic does not have anything to do with the selection or cutting of the stones. Just as with any other fine jewelry you should always inspect the item thoroughly to be sure that doesn't have scratches or nicks.

The most beautiful colors are found in stones that have been processed with multiple minerals. Cubic zirconia is the best gem to use for this as it takes the color best. The stones look totally different when pictures are taken of them in different locations. Each gem will look different and will show of a myriad of different colors due to the changing reflection and light.

Azotic names all of the 1800 different colors for the stones that they create but many of the wholesalers seem to have a mind of their own anyway and rename them. If you buy colored stones be sure that they are not imitations as the process by Azotic is the one that is approved by the FTC and is considered to be the best. Ask the jeweler you are buying from specifically who did the coating process. Don't accept any cheap substitutes.

You don't have to be concerned about the coating lasting, even though the coating is very thin it is very hard and durable. You do need to be a little more careful when wearing the jewelry so that they don't dishes or anything like that. You also want to avoid any kind of harsh cleaners and never put them in any kind of ultrasonic cleaner because they can be damaged in one of these devices. The best cleansers to use are the ones that are used for opals and pearls or a mild soapy rinse. If you take proper care of the stones you will be very happy with a unique gem for a long time.

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Source: http://www.pcwriters.com/Article/How-Designer-Gemstones-Are-Made-From-Cubic-Zirconia-And-Other-Gemstones/99603

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