We all know zircon because it is widely used in jewelry but interestingly, it is a widely distributed mineral, found in many different types of rock formations, including metamorphic and igneous rocks. Zircon is a zirconuim silicate minerals, which is found in small quantities in many rocks. It also occurs in beaches sand across the globe, particularly, Florida, Brazil, India, and Australia - It’s a common heavy mineral in the sedimentary rocks.
It’s a surprise that zircon is not something new in this world, it was discovered almost 2000 years ago. Zircon is also used in geology and Geo-chronology, as it can be used to determine the age of rocks and the conditions under which they formed. The isotopic decay of uranium and thorium in zircon crystals allows scientists to determine the age of rocks and minerals with great precision.
In short, Zircon is a widely distributed mineral that has many uses. Its high refractive index and wide range of colors is what makes it a brilliant gemstone. In industry, zircon is used as a refractory material and a foundry sand. It is also used in ceramics and other high-temperature applications.
Note : Zircon typically ranges in color from colorless to yellow, brown, red, and green.
Let’s find out when was zircon first used in jewelry?
The first known use of zircon for jewelry making dates back to ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. They valued zircon for its brilliance and color variety, and used it in rings, bracelets, and other adornments. However, it's not clear who used zircon first for jewelry making specifically.
Properties of Zircon
Zircon is undoubtedly a beautiful stone, having its own merits!
It is associated with all the Chakras. Physical and mental healing can be done with the help of zircon. Beneficial properties include - soothing pains, reducing fevers, asthma and some lung problems, relieving stomach cramps and menstrual pains.
Physically, zircon is believed to stimulate the liver, and to maintain the balance of adrenal gland. It is also valued as a cure for both insomnia and nightmares, zircon promotes restful sleep.
Mentally, zircon helps in dealing with loss and grief, also, it boosts passion for work and life. Zircon also aids meditation and help in developing psychic intuition. It is also said that zircon has a protective aura by clearing negative energy. Zircon is considered to bring success, wisdom, honor and wealth.
Note : Another interesting properties of zircon includes, bringing success, wisdom, wealth, and honor.
Unique Properties of Zircon According to Color -
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Blue zircon builds self-confidence and relationship.
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For mental purification, one should wear colorless zircon.
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Pink colored zircon attracts new love, romance, and harmony.
Is Zircon Rarer than Diamond?
Colorless zircon is convincingly beautiful, as it imitates diamonds so well!
Regardless of the long history of zircon, it is a rare form of titanium oxide which is commonly found in nature having unique properties that makes this stone a desirable gemstone in the world. The vitreous luster, bright white/colorless sparkle and its distinctive properties makes it jewelry worthy.
There is no wonder why zircon is a natural option for a diamond simulant, as it has high refractive index and dispersion rate. When a zircon is cut appropriately, it is highly persuasive that it’s imitating diamond. For so many reasons it is justifiable that the zircon is rarer than diamond.
Comparison Between Zircon and Diamond
Although, zircon is called as a diamond look-alike, there are some on the visible differences which can make us differentiate between two with ease.
How can you tell if a stone is zircon and not a diamond if they look so similar?
You must be thinking of taking it to the gemologist right? Well, that’s a wonderful idea. But wait! let us tell you some other interesting characteristics by which these two can be compared.
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Composition
Zircon is basically a mineral which belongs to nesosilicates group. The chemical name for zircon is zirconium (IV) silicate, and its formula is ZrSiO4. Zircon is the main mineral in the majority of metamorphic and igneous rocks.
While, diamond is composed of the single element - Carbon. Diamond is approx 99.95% carbon and 0.05% can be trace elements.
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Color
Although, colorless zircon is considered as the purest but zircon do exists in different colors like - yellow, golden, red, brown, blue and green.
We all know diamond for its brilliance! It is indeed colorless and beautiful. But diamond are found in twelve colors - yellow, pink, blue, orange, gray, purple, brown, red, white, violet, green, and black.
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Price
Zircon is way too inexpensive when compare to diamond. The different color zircon comes at different price range. A carat of Zircon is about $50 to $400, which is really not that expensive and anyone can afford it.
Diamonds denotes luxury! And there is no doubt that they are expensive too. Cost of a 1 carat diamond lies in between $1962 - $11,380. The price depends on the size, shape, cut, and clarity of a diamond.
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Durability
Zircon stands on 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It has good physical durability as gemstone, and is a perfect stone for jewelry making. But, under too much pressure or below sharp object, zircon can break or chipped.
Diamond is known as the hardest material known, as well as the most durable one. Diamond stands at 10 on the Mohs Scale of hardness.
Conclusion :
While Zircon can mimic diamond in appearance, it is not a substitute for diamond in terms of durability, which is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a piece of jewelry. Overall, both zircon and diamond are great options for jewelry, but it is important to understand the differences between them and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Click to read more about zircon and its special qualities.
