A Guide to Cubic Zirconia: AAA to AAAAA

Cubic zirconia is what gives modern silver jewelry its sparkle, and not all of it is equal. The grade decides how clear, how bright, and how lasting a stone is. Loretana sets AAAAA grade cubic zirconia in 925 sterling silver, the highest tier commonly used in fine fashion jewelry. Here is what the grades mean and how to judge a stone.

What cubic zirconia is

Cubic zirconia is a lab-created stone prized for its brilliance and clarity. It is hard, bright, and far more affordable than a diamond, which makes it the natural choice for everyday pieces that still need to catch the light.

The grades, from AAA to AAAAA

Cubic zirconia is graded by clarity, cut, and consistency. Higher grades are clearer and cut with more precision, so they hold more light.

AAA

A good everyday stone, clear from a normal viewing distance, common in high-street jewelry.

AAAA

Clearer and better cut, with fewer flaws and more sparkle.

AAAAA

The top tier for fashion jewelry: high clarity, precise faceting, and the brightest return of light. This is the grade Loretana uses, so the sparkle stays convincing up close.

What to look for in a set stone

Beyond the grade, look at the cut and the setting. A well-cut stone sends light back evenly rather than looking glassy. A secure setting in 925 silver keeps the stone bright and protected. See it in the 925 Silver Round Solitaire Studs, 32.99 EUR, or the 925 Silver Prismatic Round Zircon Necklace, 54.99 EUR.

Cubic zirconia and diamond

They are not the same stone, and Loretana never pretends otherwise. A diamond is a natural gem with a natural price. AAAAA cubic zirconia gives a comparable bright, white sparkle for a small fraction of the cost, which is why it suits jewelry you wear every day without worry.

Color and meaning

Cubic zirconia comes in colors as well as clear, which is how the Loretana color system works: green, red, blue, and white stones each carry a meaning. See the 925 Silver Sapphire Halo Necklace, 54.99 EUR, or read jewelry by meaning.

Care

Keep stones bright by wiping them with a soft, damp cloth and drying fully. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives, and store pieces separately so harder stones do not scratch softer surfaces.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best grade of cubic zirconia?

AAAAA is the top tier for fashion jewelry, with the highest clarity and the most precise cut. Loretana uses AAAAA grade stones.

Is cubic zirconia the same as diamond?

No. Cubic zirconia is a lab-created stone that gives a similar bright sparkle at a fraction of the cost. It is not a natural diamond.

Does cubic zirconia lose its sparkle?

With basic care it stays bright for years. Wipe it clean and avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives.

Is cubic zirconia good for everyday wear?

Yes. It is hard and bright, and set in 925 silver it makes a durable, affordable everyday piece.

See AAAAA cubic zirconia across the silver earrings and silver necklaces collections.