ZIRCON

Zircon is a fascinating gemstone known for its brilliant sparkle, wide range of colors, and exceptional optical properties. Despite being often confused with synthetic cubic zirconia, natural zircon is a unique and valuable gemstone with a rich history and geological significance. The name "zircon" is derived from the Persian word "zargun," meaning "gold-colored."

AN INTRODUCTION TO ZIRCON

Zircon is found in several locations worldwide, with significant sources including Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma), Australia, and Tanzania. Other notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, and Nigeria. Cambodian and Sri Lankan zircons are particularly prized for their high quality and vibrant colors.

Zircon has been treasured since ancient times and was used in various cultures for its beauty and believed protective properties. During the Middle Ages, zircon was thought to promote restful sleep, bring prosperity, and drive away evil spirits. In Victorian times, blue zircon was a popular gemstone in jewelry. Today, zircon is appreciated for its brilliance and versatility, often featured in fine jewelry.

Zircon is relatively abundant, but high-quality stones with intense colors and excellent clarity are rarer and more valuable. Blue zircon, which is achieved through heat treatment, is especially prized. Natural colorless zircon is also rare and valued for its diamond-like brilliance.

Zircon comes in a variety of colors, each with its own unique charm and value:

Blue Zircon:

  • Color: Achieved through heat treatment, blue zircon ranges from pale to deep sky blue. It is the most popular and widely recognized variety of zircon.
  • Origin: Primarily sourced from Cambodia, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.

Colorless Zircon:

  • Color: Often referred to as "Matura Diamond," colorless zircon exhibits exceptional brilliance and fire, similar to diamonds.
  • Origin: Found in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

Golden Yellow Zircon:

  • Color: Exhibits a bright, golden yellow hue, often with excellent clarity and brilliance.
  • Origin: Commonly found in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Tanzania.

Red and Pink Zircon:

  • Color: Displays a range of red and pink hues, from light pink to deep red. These colors are rarer and highly valued.
  • Origin: Primarily sourced from Tanzania and Myanmar.

Green Zircon:

Color: Green zircon is less common and can range from pale to dark green. Its color is usually due to natural radiation exposure.

Origin: Found in Cambodia and Myanmar.

  • Brown Zircon:
  • Color: Features a range of brown shades, often with a warm, earthy tone.
  • Origin: Commonly found in Cambodia and Australia.

INTERESTING FACTS

  • Radioactivity: Some zircon crystals contain trace amounts of radioactive elements like uranium and thorium. Over millions of years, these elements can cause the crystal structure to become metamict, or partially amorphous, affecting the gemstone's properties. However, the levels of radioactivity in gem-quality zircon are generally low and not harmful.
  • Optical Properties: Zircon is known for its high refractive index (1.92 to 1.98) and strong dispersion, giving it a brilliance and fire comparable to diamonds. It also exhibits birefringence, meaning it can show double images of facets when viewed through the stone.
  • Historical Significance: Zircon has been used as a gemstone for centuries and was once believed to have magical properties, including protection against evil and the promotion of wisdom and honor.

Zircon continues to captivate gem enthusiasts and jewelry lovers with its brilliant colors and exceptional qualities. Whether worn as a stunning piece of jewelry or treasured as a collector's gem, zircon remains a symbol of beauty and brilliance in the world of gemstones.