Zircon, also known as zirconium silicate, is referred to as “freesia stone” in Japan. It is the birthstone for December and symbolizes success. Zircon is one of the oldest minerals formed on Earth.
The term “zircon” is used for the mineral, and it was formerly known as zirconium silicate or freesia stone. When transparent, it is used as a gemstone and referred to as zircon gemstone. The origin of the word “zircon” is believed to have evolved from the Arabic word “Zarkun,” originally meaning “cinnabar and vermilion.” Another theory suggests that it comes from ancient Persian “Zargun,” meaning “golden-colored.” The first documented use of the term “Zircon” was in 1783 when describing green zircon crystals from Sri Lanka.
Zircon is a natural gemstone with a refractive index second only to diamonds, and it has a high dispersion value. Colorless and transparent zircon closely resembles diamonds, making it an excellent diamond substitute. Zircon is commonly found in colors such as colorless, reddish-brown, brownish-red, and green. However, the most popular colors are blue and colorless, with blue zircon being more valuable. Often, zircons undergo heat treatment to enhance their quality, change their color, or alter their type. Many zircons available in the market have been subjected to heat treatment before being sold.
Zircon is frequently heat-treated to improve its quality or to change its color or type. Since no additional substances are added during the optimization process, zircon is still considered a natural gemstone in jewelry appraisal. Through optimization treatment, zircon becomes more beautiful and marketable.
In Western culture, wearing red zircon is believed to have hypnotic effects and can ward off plagues and conquer evil. In some countries today, zircon is paired with turquoise as the “December birthstone,” symbolizing success and victory. High-quality zircon is a mineral that crystallized early in magma formation and does not contain radioactive elements, making it safe for human wear.
The most famous blue zircon in the world weighs 208 carats and is currently housed in the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
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