Fang – Baroque Pearl with CZ's

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a lab-created material made of zirconium dioxide, not carbon, and is widely used as an affordable diamond look-alike. It is man-made and can be produced in almost any colour.

Hardness

8–9 (Mohs), usually given as about 8.5

Everyday wear

Cubic zirconia is softer than diamond, so with daily wear it can gradually pick up scratches and lose some sparkle; it may need re-polishing or replacing over time.

Care

Soak briefly in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap, brush gently with a soft brush, rinse and dry with a lint-free cloth. Store it apart from other jewellery and avoid harsh chemicals, toothpaste and chlorinated water.

Pearls are formed by molluscs, which coat a nucleus or irritant with layers of nacre. Natural pearls form without human help, while cultured pearls are grown with human intervention.

Birthstone

June

Hardness

2.5–4.5 (Mohs)

Everyday wear

Pearls are very soft and easily scratched, so rings and bracelets need protective settings or occasional wear; necklaces and earrings are easiest to enjoy.

Care

Put pearls on after perfume, hairspray and cosmetics, and wipe them with a very soft cloth after each wear. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners; for an occasional deeper clean use warm, soapy water and let strung pearls dry completely before wearing.

Meaning and tradition

In European tradition pearls symbolised modesty, purity and chastity, and many cultures linked their round shape with the moon. In ancient Chinese folklore pearls were believed to guard against fire and fire-breathing dragons.