Decoding Diamond Ring Markings: 14K, DQ, and CZ Explained

Question
I have a diamond ring that has the following stamped marks and I would like to know what they mean.One says 14 kt the other is DQ or atleast I think its a D and a Q,the other is cz.Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hi Mike, the markings on your ring indicate 3 things:

14k = The purity of the gold used for the band. The highest is 24k, but this is to soft for jewelry, 18k is typically used.

CZ = Cubic Zirconia. It means that the stone mounted is a cz, a diamond simulant or synthetic diamond.

DQ = I believe this one means Diamonique, a jewelry brand name used by QVC, the tv shopping network.

Hope this helps!

Jonathon
http://www.brilliance.com