CUBIC ZIRCONIA | AN INFERIOR DIAMOND SUBSTITUTE?

The highly dense and refractive cubic zirconia (or CZ) has been a strong competitor to the well-loved and ubiquitous diamond for a little over three decades and counting.  

Unfortunately, however, this flawless isometric crystal has been marred for years by a derisive reputation.  This edition of Splendor Sidebar will explore the origins of this misunderstood man-made gemstone.  

RUTH BARZEL JEWELRY DESIGN

Touted as a conservatory of American history, we eagerly visit Washington D.C.'s National Museum of American History, which boasts intriguing political, scientific, and cultural exhibits including a display featuring the renowned ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz. Washington D.C. is also the home of featured jewelry designer Ruth Barzel.

MELINDA SPIGEL | MELINDA MARIA JEWELRY

Santa Monica, California is a picturesque ocean-side city that boasts an average of 340 days of sunshine out of a year, along with the well-manicured sands of its world-renown beach.

California is also home to jewelry designer Melinda Spigel.