Exploring the Enigma of Zircon: A Little-Known Gemstone Boasting Incredible Qualities
### Natural Zircon
**Properties:**
Zircon, a naturally occurring mineral, is a silicate mineral composed of zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4). It can be found in various colours, including blue, green, yellow, and orange[2]. This gemstone is known for its high luster and good transparency, giving it a brilliance similar to diamonds[3]. Blue zircon, in particular, is valued for its calming effect and is believed to be beneficial for mental clarity and spiritual growth[3]. With a hardness of about 7.5 on the Mohs scale, zircon is relatively durable but not as hard as diamond or sapphire[2].
**Origins:**
Zircon is mined from various locations worldwide, with significant deposits found in Australia, Brazil, and Cambodia. It is among the December birthstones, alongside turquoise and tanzanite[2].
### Synthetic Cubic Zirconia
**Properties:**
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a synthetic, lab-created material, not a mineral but rather a compound made from zirconium dioxide (ZrO2)[1]. It is naturally colorless and can be treated to produce a wide range of colors. Compared to diamonds, CZ exhibits more fire (colored light dispersion) but lacks the same scintillation[1]. CZ has a hardness of about 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable but still not as hard as diamond[1].
**Origins:**
Cubic zirconia is created synthetically through a high-temperature and high-pressure process. It is often used as a more affordable alternative to diamonds and can be fashioned into various cuts and shapes[1].
### Key Differences
- **Occurrence:** Zircon is natural, while CZ is synthetic. - **Composition:** Zircon is a silicate mineral, whereas CZ is made from zirconium dioxide. - **Hardness and Durability:** Both are durable, but zircon is slightly softer than CZ. - **Appearance:** Zircon is known for its diamond-like brilliance, while CZ is noted for its fire and color variety[1][2]. - The fire in zircon comes close to that of a diamond, meaning it can split white light into spectral colours. - The optical properties of zircon cannot be measured with a refractometer, but can be identified with a spectroscope. - Zircon is a relatively affordable coloured stone suitable for all types of jewelry, with proper care. However, some heat-treated zircon stones may discolour if exposed to ultraviolet light for long periods.
In summary, while both zircon and cubic zirconia share some similarities in terms of hardness and durability, they differ significantly in their origin, composition, and appearance. Understanding these differences can help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing jewellery.
- In the field of gemmology, both zircon and cubic zirconia are subjects of extensive scientific study, allowing for advancements in technology to develop instruments for more accurate testing and identification of these gemstones.
- Publications in the field of science have discussed the potential use of zircon in the medical community for diagnosing certain medical conditions, due to its unique crystallographic structure and chemical composition.
- With the advancements in technology and the increasing popularity of zircon and cubic zirconia, various publications have been released to shed light on their properties and provide guidelines for their use, care, and maintenance, ensuring their longevity for future generations.
- The Foundation of Gemmology Research has funded several projects to further explore the properties of zircon and cubic zirconia, especially in terms of their optical properties and chemical compositions, contributing significantly to the broader understanding of these gemstones within the scientific community.
