What is "cubic zirconia"

Zirconia \Zir*co"ni*a\, n. [NL.] (Chem.) The oxide of zirconium ( ZrO2), obtained as a white powder, and possessing both acid and basic properties. On account of its infusibility, and brilliant luminosity when incandescent, it is used as an ingredient of sticks for the Drummomd light.

cubic zirconia. A colorless form of zirconia similar in appearance and refractivity to diamond, and used as a substitute for diamonds in inexpensive jewelry; -- also known by the acronym CZ.

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is the cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide (ZrO). The synthesized material is hard, optically flawless and usually colorless, but may be made in a variety of different colors. It should not be confused with zircon, which is a zirconium silicate (ZrSiO). It is sometimes erroneously called "cubic zirconium".

Because of its low cost, durability, and close visual likeness to diamond, synthetic cubic zirconia has remained the most gemologically and economically important competitor for diamonds since commercial production began in 1976. Its main competitor as a synthetic gemstone is a more recently cultivated material, synthetic moissanite.

Cubic Zirconia are an American electronic dance music trio from East Village, New York City composed of Tiombe Lockhart, Nick Hook and Daud Sturdivant. They have been noted for their energetic live performances and experimental sound, which combines elements from such genres as Chicago house music, neo-soul, rock and electro-funk.