Zircon

Zircon

Properties

  • Mineral: Zircon
  • Chemistry: ZrSiO4
  • Colour: Blue, red, yellow, orange, brown, green
  • Refractive index: High: 1.925 to 1.984 (+/- 0.040)

Medium: 1.875 to 1.905 (+/- 0.030)

Low: 1.810 to 1.815 (+/-0.030)

  • Birefringence: 0.000 to 0.059 (low to high)
  • Specific gravity: 3.90 to 4.73
  • Mohs Hardness: 6 to 7.5 (low to high)

About Zircon

Zircon is a naturally occurring gemstone. However because of the similarity of its name it has always been confused with the lab created diamond simulant called cubic zirconia (CZ). A beautiful gemstone in its own right zircon has gained popularity over the years.

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Product Description

History

Before the creation of diamond simulants such as cubic zirconia and moissanite, zircon was the original diamond simulant in the early 1900s. Colourless zircons are known for its brilliance and flashes of multi-coloured light which closely resembled diamonds leading to confusion between the two gems for centuries. The name ‘zircon’ is thought to be derived from the Persian word “zargun” which means “gold-coloured”. In the middle ages, zircon was said to aid sleep, bring prosperity, and promote honour and wisdom in its owner. They also believed that the cosmos is reflected in zircons.

Sources

Most zircon deposits come from Burma. Other notable sources include Madagascar, Tanzania, Cambodia, China, Australia and Sri Lanka.

Quality

Zircon occurs in a range of colours from white, yellow, green, red, reddish brown and blue hues making zircons a favourite among collectors as well as informed consumers. Blue zircons are the most popular, but its colour is obtained through the heating of brown zircon, usually from Cambodia and Burma.

Trivia

Zircons found in Australia are as old as 4.4 billion making it the oldest known mineral on earth.

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