Zircon: The Underrated Gemstone You Need to Know About

Discover the Beauty and History of Natural Zircon

Often confused with cubic zirconia, natural zircon is a stunning gemstone in its own right that deserves far more recognition than it receives. This ancient and brilliant stone has been captivating jewellery lovers for thousands of years.

What is Zircon?

Zircon is a natural gemstone composed of zirconium silicate. It's one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4.4 billion years. This makes zircon not just beautiful, but also scientifically significant—geologists use zircon crystals to study Earth's earliest history.

The Brilliance Factor

One of zircon's most impressive qualities is its exceptional brilliance and fire. With a refractive index higher than most gemstones (except diamond and moissanite), zircon displays remarkable sparkle and rainbow-coloured flashes of light. This natural brilliance makes it a stunning choice for jewellery that catches the eye.

A Rainbow of Colours

While many people associate zircon with colourless stones, it actually comes in a spectacular array of colours:

• Blue Zircon: The most popular and sought-after variety, ranging from sky blue to deep ocean hues
• Golden and Yellow: Warm, honey-toned stones that glow with inner fire
• Green: Rare and beautiful, from soft mint to deep forest shades
• Red and Orange: Vibrant stones known as hyacinth zircon
• Colourless: Diamond-like brilliance at a fraction of the cost
• Brown: Earthy tones that are often heat-treated to create blue zircon

Zircon vs. Cubic Zirconia: Setting the Record Straight

It's important to understand that zircon and cubic zirconia are completely different:

• Zircon is a natural gemstone mined from the earth, with a history spanning billions of years
• Cubic Zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic diamond simulant created in laboratories, first produced in the 1970s

The similar names have unfortunately led to confusion, causing many people to overlook the genuine beauty and value of natural zircon.

Historical Significance

Zircon has been treasured throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to promote wisdom, honour, and prosperity. Victorian-era jewellery often featured zircon, particularly the blue variety. The gemstone has also been used in Hindu poetry for thousands of years, where it was associated with the mythical Kalpa Tree.

December's Birthstone

Zircon is one of three official birthstones for December, alongside tanzanite and turquoise. Blue zircon, in particular, is a popular choice for December birthdays, offering a brilliant alternative to more expensive blue gemstones.

Caring for Your Zircon Jewellery

While zircon is relatively durable (6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale), it does require some care:

• Avoid harsh impacts as zircon can be brittle
• Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush
• Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching
• Remove zircon jewellery during vigorous activities

Why Choose Zircon?

Zircon offers exceptional value for those seeking a brilliant, colourful gemstone. Its natural origin, historical significance, and stunning optical properties make it a meaningful choice for jewellery. Whether you're drawn to the popular blue variety or the warm golden tones, zircon provides beauty and sparkle that rivals far more expensive gemstones.

At Wild & Nourished, we celebrate the unique beauty of natural gemstones like zircon, offering pieces that showcase their natural brilliance and timeless appeal.