Zircon

Zircon is a natural stone often used to imitate diamonds. It is often confused with cubic zirconia which is a synthetic stone. Sometimes zircon is used instead of diamonds in a wedding or engagement ring.

Zircon is a natural stone - not to be confused with Cubic Zirconia which is manmade. It is known as a colorless stone used to imitate diamonds but also comes in: blue, yellow, orange, red, brown and green . It has a hardness of 7.5.

Zircon is somewhat soft so avoid scratches and sharp blows. Avoid hot water and household chemicals.

Brown Zicon is usually heat treated to change them to colorless or blue Zircon. Blue stones that revert to brown will regain the blue if reheated. Blue Zircon reheated in the presence of oxygen will change to a golden yellow.

Zircon will have more wear on its facets than diamond. Zircon is imitated by colorless glass and synthetic spinel.

Zircon is found in Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, France, Myanmar, Nigeria, Sri Lanka and Tanzania.

Zircon is the December Traditional Birthstone

Zircon supposedly helps one be more at peace with oneself.

Zircon was believed to provide the wearer with wisdom, honor and riches.

The lost of luster on a Zircon stone is said to warn of danger.

The name Zircon is from Zargun which means "gold color".