Zircon, alongside tanzanite and turquoise, holds the distinction of being a birthstone for December. Revered for centuries for its beauty and believed properties, zircon presents a remarkable range of colors and a fascinating history. While often mistaken for diamond due to its brilliance, zircon possesses a unique character and enduring appeal, making it a captivating gem for jewelry and a significant stone in various cultures. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this often-misunderstood December birthstone.
History and Lore
The very origin of the name “zircon” is debated, with some scholars tracing it to the Arabic word zarkun, meaning “cinnabar” or “vermilion,” while others suggest a Persian root, zargun, translating to “gold colored.” Given the gem’s diverse color palette – encompassing red, orange, yellow, brown, green, and blue – both etymological possibilities hold merit.
Zircon’s history stretches back millennia. It adorned the funerary mask of King Tut, demonstrating its importance in ancient Egyptian culture over 3,000 years ago. During the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to induce sleep and ward off evil spirits. In Hindu tradition, zircon alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems of the navaratna, a collection believed to bestow wealth, wisdom, and good health upon the wearer.
Victorian-era jewelers particularly favored blue zircon, and fine examples can be found in English estate jewelry from the 1880s. Ancient Apache tribes believed following a rainbow would lead to turquoise, but also valued zircon, believing it improved accuracy with bows and firearms. Pueblo peoples associated turquoise’s color with the sky, while the Hopi attributed its creation to lizards scurrying across the earth. Even in European traditions, a turquoise ring symbolized remembrance, carrying the message “forget me not.”
Geological Formation and Sources
Zircon is found in a variety of geological settings, often alongside sapphire deposits. Notable mining locations include Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia also yield zircon. The gem is commonly found near sapphire sources, suggesting a shared geological origin in these regions.
Gemological Properties
Zircon ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, indicating moderate durability. While generally stable, some heat-treated zircon stones may revert to their original color – typically a light brown – after prolonged exposure to bright light. Exposure to heat can also alter the color of some zircon varieties. The gem is generally stable when exposed to chemicals.
Zircon exhibits strong double refraction, contributing to its brilliance and the flashes of multicolored light known as “fire,” which can sometimes lead to confusion with diamond. Colorless zircon is particularly prized for this characteristic. Zircon is commonly heat-treated to produce the blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues.
A table summarizing key gemological properties is provided below:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mohs Hardness | 6 - 7.5 |
| Refraction | Strong Double |
| Stability to Light | Variable |
| Stability to Heat | Variable |
| Stability to Chemicals | Stable |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, zircon has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Ancient cultures believed zircon provided wisdom and honor. It was considered a protective talisman, safeguarding against negative energies and promoting good fortune. In some traditions, zircon was thought to guarantee health and wealth. The gem is associated with the root chakra, believed to represent stability and grounding.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its tendency to abrade, zircon is best suited for jewelry not subjected to rough wear, such as earrings or pendants. While it can be worn in rings, a protective mounting is recommended, and care should be taken to avoid impacts or abrasive conditions like gardening or doing dishes.
Cleaning zircon is straightforward: use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for zircon, as they may damage the stone.
Zircon in Jewelry
Today, the most sought-after variety of zircon for December birthstone jewelry is brilliant blue zircon, celebrated for its intense sparkle. Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with any precious metal, offering a timeless elegance for gifting. Ella Creations Jewelry offers an 18K gold signet ring featuring a 4ct natural brownish pink zircon marquise cut stone, exemplifying the gem’s use in contemporary designs.
Conclusion
Zircon is a gem steeped in history, symbolism, and geological intrigue. From its ancient origins in the tombs of pharaohs to its Victorian-era popularity and modern-day appeal as a December birthstone, zircon continues to captivate with its brilliance, diverse colors, and enduring charm. While often overshadowed by diamond, zircon possesses a unique character and a rich heritage that make it a truly special gemstone.