When you hear the word ‘cocktail,’ you may think of a party or a certain type of dress. However, there is another use of this term that’s making a big comeback in the world of jewelry. First made popular in the 1940s and 1950s, cocktail rings are large oversized rings that feature either clear or colored gemstones. Typically designed as either large cluster or solitaire rings, these bold accessories are making their presence known in a big way.

While many of the most commonly spoke about cocktail rings were once designed in diamonds, it’s important to note that these popular styles can also feature a rainbow of colors. When it comes down to it, a cocktail ring is any large ring that suits your style. Whether you choose clear or colored gemstones, cubic zirconia offers an affordable and stunning alternative to genuine diamonds and other gems.

Speaking of color, cubic zirconia is often thought of as a transparent stone. While this is true, it’s not the only possibility. In fact, cubic zirconia can be made to feature a variety of colors through a change in the manufacturing process. Because cubic zirconia is a lab created diamond simulant, it can either be offered as a clear or colored stone. It is believed that because of it’s high refractive index, cubic zirconia outshines the majority of all other gemstones. When compared to a diamond’s refractive index, which is 2.41, a cubic zirconia is not far behind with a reading of 2.15.

So, just what is it that makes a cocktail ring? Truthfully, a cocktail ring can either be a cluster of gemstones, a large solitaire ring or a multi-gem ring with a large centerstone. A clear cubic zirconia cocktail ring will imitate a flawless diamond ring, while colored cubic zirconia cocktail rings will mimic your favorite gemstones in a rainbow of colors.

Although cocktail rings are stylish in their design, they are meant to be worn anywhere. As a jewelry lover, you should not feel restricted to wearing your cocktail rings only for special occasions. Instead, you should wear and enjoy them on a daily basis. From a business suit in the office to your favorite pair of denim jeans, your cocktail ring will shine with nearly any wardrobe choice. Because cubic zirconia is an 8.5 on the scale of hardness, it’s not something that you will need to be especially concerned about wearing on a daily basis. In other words, your cubic zirconia cocktail rings can offer you the perfect combination of durability, affordability and believability.