Cubic zirconia beads from Artbeads.com

Although it has a crystalline structure very similar to diamond, cubic zirconia (CZ for short) isn't just a diamond alternative. It has more sparkle and substance than crystal, and CZ beads and pendants are surprisingly affordable -- which means you're not limited to using them in formal designs.

Some of the most eye-catching CZ pieces play up the contrast between casual style and showy glam. Here, antiqued Vintaj brass earwires and colored copper wire mix with dazzling, clear CZ briolettes from Artbeads.com for a striking effect:

These are relatively easy to make (see "Make a Wrapped Briolette Cap" on page 93 of Wire Jewelry Visual Quick Tips) and have just enough glimmer to dress up jeans and a T without going overboard.

Artbeads.com stocks lots of colored CZ beads, pendants, and findings too. Here's a faceted coin pendant in a pale amethyst hue, again paired with antiqued brass:

And here are some more of my faves.

Luscious yellow long drops

Fiery orange fans

Sweet peridot cushion cuts

Chris's CZ bead tips: Although it looks a lot like diamond, CZ is not quite diamond-hard. Be careful not to crack or break briolette tips when passing wire through their holes. To keep your CZ looking its best, wipe beads with a lint-free cloth to remove oils and fingerprints before wearing. Unless you're going for a formal, high-glam, or performance art look, don't overdo it with CZ. One pendant or drop, or three to five beads along a strand, are usually enough.

Got any more tips to share?

Special thanks to Artbeads.com for providing the CZ drops and pendants for the featured designs in this post. Beadjewelry.net is part of the Arbeads.com blog partner and affiliate programs.

Comments

[Pak jewelry]

That Fiery orange is awesome !!!

[Jewelry Making Tools]

So beautiful! I love the look of antiqued brass, especially with faceted gems. Someday jewelry like that will come from my own jewelry making tools...

[Wire Jewelry Supplies]

I found your site on del.icio.us this morning and really liked it. I bookmarked your blog and will definitely be back soon to read your new posts!

[Jen]

Ohhhhh, those are gorgeous! I am trying to create my own wire jewelry..it (of course) not working out quite the way I want it to..haha, the beads are never quite in the right place, the wire never quite looks right...but these beads are so pretty! They look almost like the inside of a watch I have. I love cubic zirconium...kinda makes you wonder why people still buy real diamonds! JK!!

Jen

[Jewelry Supplies]

I found your site on del.icio.us this morning and really liked it. I bookmarked your blog and will definitely be back soon to read your new posts!

[Jewelry Making Supplies]

I loved the article! These types of resources are extremely valuable to anyone interested in making jewelry. I can't wait to read some more of your articles!