Nature does not stop surprising, especially when it comes to stones, because it is impressive the amount of gems that it produces. However, one of the most curious or characteristic details is that they have existed for thousands of years. Such is the case of the zircon, one of the most interesting gemstones and, at the same time twisted in terms of its time of existence on planet earth, but thanks to science and technology it was discovered that the zircon is the most ancient precious gem.
The zircon or circon as it is also known, is a mineral, which according to Strunz classification, belongs to the family of the nesosilicates. It can appear in a number of variable colors, such as: yellow, red, green, blue, violet, black and colorless.
As for the etymology of its name, the one that begins with “Z” derives from Arabic, specifically zarqun which means “golden”. Now, the one that begins with “C”, which in its complete form is zirconium, refers to a chemical element located in the periodic table of the elements, with the number 40. This element was discovered by a German chemist in 1789, its etymology in this case comes from Latin zirconium.
Zircons are precious stones in every sense of the word. They can be found in a variety of colors, but, additionally, additional colors can be obtained if they are subjected to thermal treatments. However, few know that zircon is the original stimulant of the diamond. Well, when colorless stones are cut correctly, beautiful and convincing diamond substitutes can be obtained and even to make mediocre diamonds opaque. Its high dispersion is similar to that of diamond. However, the simulation only reaches a certain point.
Now, if they are compared to each other, the zircon is fragile unlike the diamond, and the faceted edges tend to chip and wear out. Zirconium should be used with much more care. If it is going to be used as a stone for a ring, it must have a protective layer. But, if it is used sporadically, it can work in any type of jewelry.
The main deposits of this stone are located in Cambodia, near the border with Vietnam; as well as in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Australia, the United States, South Africa and France.
The zircon is a stone that has been treasured by many civilizations of the world, today thanks to a group of scientists belonging to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and technology with respect to studies and data analysis, it has been achieved to decipher the reason for the high value of said gem, showing that the origin of it was exactly 4,400 million years ago, incredible, isn’t it?
Therefore, the zircon brings with it an enriching history and mythology. For example, during the Middle Ages, it was thought that this gem helped to rest, induced deep and restful sleep, drove away evil spirits, and promoted prosperity, energy, honor and wisdom who carried it. Other legends said that the zircon relieved pains and it is a natural gem associated with people born in December.
Another attribute of this precious gem is that it has one of the highest refractive index (IR) in nature, surpassing three of the four large precious stones such as the ruby, the sapphire and the emerald. Such index is one of the most important characteristics of a gemstone, it indicates the speed of light in the air and the speed of light through a transparent material; for example, gemstones with a higher IR are generally brighter, like the zircon, than those of low IR.
Finally, the zircon has unique attributes, a gem with wonderful colors and bright flashes of light, a treasure given by nature millions of years ago, a masterpiece for gem collectors and gem lovers.
ALFA