ZIRCON
Zircon
Zircon
A natural mineral capable of strong brilliance. It is a different material from manufactured cubic zirconia (CZ).
GEM PROFILE
Basic properties
- Mineral or material
- Zircon
- Main chemical composition
- ZrSiO₄
- Crystal & structure
- Tetragonal
Prismatic and bipyramidal forms are known. Physical properties vary considerably with the condition of its structure.
- Typical colors
- Blue, colorless, yellow, brown, red, green and more
- Mohs hardness
- 6–7.5
A measure of scratch resistance, distinct from resistance to impact or breakage.
About hardness and durability - Representative sources
Examples of known sources. Determining the origin of an individual stone requires examination and comparison with reference material.
- Common cutting styles
- Brilliant-style cuts and others that use its brilliance and dispersion.
Explore cutting styles
LOOK A LITTLE CLOSER
What to observe
Many zircons show strong birefringence, making facet edges appear doubled. Despite similar names, zircon and CZ should be distinguished.
TREATMENT & CARE
Treatments & care
Treatments & identification
Heating is used to produce colors such as blue or colorless. Some treated stones may change color under prolonged strong light.
Everyday care
Protect facet edges from abrasion, chipping and strong impacts. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning; use lukewarm water and mild detergent.
Cleaning depends on treatment, inclusions and mounting. If a stone's condition is unknown, ask your jeweler or a gem specialist before cleaning.
READING & REFERENCES
References
Public sources for learning about this gemstone's general properties.
- GIA · Gemological reference
- GIA · Care & Cleaning
- Handbook of Mineralogy · Mineral data (PDF)
- GIA · Gem sources and fundamentals
This dictionary provides general educational information. Values are representative and do not identify or grade an individual stone. Locality examples include historical deposits.
Sources checked: October 19, 2026