Zircon is a beautiful gem available in a variety of colors but most recognizable in a brilliant light aqua blue. It’s best known for being one of December’s three birthstones (along with tanzanite and turquoise). Zircons are valuable natural stones, and should not be confused with inexpensive synthetic cubic zirconia. Because of this confusion, some gemologists have proposed “cambolite” as a new name for natural zircons mined in Cambodia. In the past, other names have been proposed, such as “Starlite” because of its brilliance, or “Matara” for colorless zircons from Sri Lanka, but these alternative names are less commonly used than the traditional “zircon.” Some fine red zircons were historically called “jacinths” and their yellow to amber hued cousins were known as “jargoons.” Ancients loved the red zircons known as jacinths, and one had a place of honor in the jeweled breastplate of Aaron in the Bible.
Zircons are some of the oldest minerals on earth, with zircons in Australia dating back 4.4 billion years. At Secrete Fine Jewelry, we think this incredible history is romantic; because of their age, choosing a zircon jewelry gift symbolizes long lasting love. Medieval Europeans believed that zircon promoted restful sleep and wealth, and that it dispelled evil spirits– because of this tradition, we love it for a “push present,” because every new parent could use a charm that brings on peaceful sleep. Zircon is also a traditional gift for a fourth wedding anniversary.
Zircons are found mostly in Australia, Cambodia, China, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam. Zircons typically display a beautifully flashy brilliance and fire (reflecting a rainbow of light). Natural colorless zircons were actually used as imitation diamonds in the Victorian era, as they were more sparkly than paste rhinestones and other commonly available diamond alternatives of the day. They range from 6 – 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, which is not quite as hard as sapphires, but definitely sturdy enough for normal jewelry wear.
Famous Zircon Jewelry
St. Edward’s Crown was made in 1661 for the English King in gold, silver, platinum, enamel, tourmalines, topazes, rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnet, peridot, zircons, spinel, aquamarines, velvet and ermine. The zircons here are “jargoons,” or pale yellow zircons. This is the most important crown in the British Royal family, worn by the current Queen Elizabeth II at her coronation. – Source: Royal Collection Trust
This 1920 brooch by Frank Gardner Hale features beautiful blue zircons accented by diamonds, sapphires, and peridots. Source: Museum of Fine Arts Boston (Public Domain)
This amulet case with Vishnu Riding Garuda dates from 17th–19th century Nepal. Made from gold, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, pearls, zircon, coral, lapis lazuli, and turquoise, this sacred object showcases the beauty of zircon. Source: MetMuseum (Public Domain)
The “Order of the Golden Fleece” brooch was symbolic of a chivalric order. This pin made in 1741 in red zircon (“jacinth”), diamonds, gold, and silver belonged to Frederick Augustus II, King of Saxony. Source- Wikimedia Commons
Buying zircons
There are a number of quality factors that you should consider when purchasing a zircon. The majority of blue zircons are heat treated to enhance their blue color. Zircons are valued for their color, clarity, and size. Deeper, even intense colors are preferred to the pastel shades.
The deep sea blue of the zircon on the left is a more valuable color than the paler aqua blue of the zircon on the right. Color, however, is always a matter of personal preference.
While less commonly known, natural colored non-blue zircons are very pretty and may be a great option for you if you prefer warmer or earth tones.
Natural zircon colors. Source: GIA
Whether you choose a classic blue or a warmer color for your zircon, Secrete Fine Jewelry will help you choose the right zircon for your unique piece. Our custom design purchases will allow you to create just the perfect jewelry, whether you’re celebrating a December birthday, looking forward to a fourth anniversary, welcoming a new baby into the world, or simply in love with the fire and brilliance of this ancient stone. Contact us to schedule a custom design appointment today.
