Zircon is one of the ancient gemstones of the world and has been treasured for centuries.
Zircons first came to note in the ancient Indian tale of the Kalpa Tree, where a votive offering made to the Gods was a bright glowing tree with bejeweled leaves of green zircon. Despite this color - associated name, zircon actually occurs in virtually all colors. There is no relation at all between zircon and cubic zirconia . Z ircon is a bright, lustrous, highly brilliant gem that occurs in large sizes with high clarities, making it a favorite among people who like bright colorful gems.
Zircon is generally accepted as a birthstone for December along with Tanzanite and turquoise.
Treatments
Almost always heat treated.
Care Instructions :
Zircons are hard but quite fragile and subject to chipping easilly. Don't use chemical or abrasive cleaners. Avoid situations where you are at risk to strike the stone against a hard surface. Zircon is not appropriate for everyday wear.
Gemological Properties:
Specific Gravity: 4.70
Refractive Index: 1.925-1.984
Birefringence: .000 – 0.059
Fracture: Conchoidal
Hardness: 6-7 ½