What is Zirconium?

Why Choose Zirconium? 

For buyers seeking high-quality jewellery, zirconium is fast becoming the most popular choice. Independent retailers can leverage this versatile material to differentiate their wedding ring selection and attract discerning, stylish customers.

What is Zirconium?

Zirconium is a lustrous, grey-white metal that is commonly found in the Earth's crust. It is extracted from the mineral zircon, which is often found in beach sands and is primarily mined in Australia, South Africa, and the United States. In its natural state, zirconium is highly resistant to corrosion and heat, making it a valuable material in various industries, including nuclear reactors and aerospace applications.

The Transformation into Black Zirconium

The transformation of zirconium into black zirconium is a fascinating process. The metal is heated to high temperatures in an oxygen-rich environment. This causes the zirconium to oxidise, forming a black oxide layer on its surface. This layer is not only aesthetically appealing but also increases the material's hardness and scratch resistance. The result is a striking black metal that retains all the beneficial properties of zirconium while offering a unique and modern look.

Benefits in Jewellery Design

Zirconium boasts an array of unique properties that make it an excellent choice for jewellery design. Firstly, it is incredibly durable and highly resistant to scratches, corrosion, and tarnishing. This makes it suitable for everyday wear and ensures that Zedd™ rings stay looking fresher for longer. It is also lightweight despite its strength. Our rings are built to last without weighing you down or compromising on quality.
However, don’t be fooled into thinking your zirconium ring is invincible! Although this material is sturdy, treating your Zedd™ purchase like any other item of precious jewellery is still important. Read our zirconium jewellery care guide to discover our best advice for keeping your pieces in top condition.

Another benefit of zirconium is that it is hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or nickel allergies. If you have found shopping for fine jewellery difficult in the past, zirconium provides a distinctive and skin-safe solution. Finally, zirconium is versatile. It can be crafted into sophisticated designs and combined with other materials, such as 9ct and 18ct gold, platinum, titanium and diamonds, to offer endless possibilities for unique and custom pieces. It is this blend of black zirconium and precious metals that makes Zedd™ such a fast-growing brand in the UK and international jewellery markets.