What is zircon and zirconium: stone in jewelry, who is it suitable for, cubic zirconium what is it

For diamond lovers, a great way out is zirconium stone in jewelry. This is an excellent imitation of diamond, with a brilliant shine that is indistinguishable by visual inspection. Not every woman can afford to wear diamond jewelry - this is the reality, and it’s hard to argue with it. The inventive human mind is always looking for loopholes to reconcile one's own desires with personal capabilities.

Zircon stone - varieties and colors

Zircon has several of the most famous varieties.

1. Hyacinth - Its color ranges from pale pink to bright red and brown.
2. Jargon - Zirconium is yellow in color.
3. Matar Diamond. This colorless mineral maintains muscle tone in the human body. This talisman is especially useful for people who want to lose weight and gain a slim figure.

Each subspecies of zircon has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, relieving insomnia and bad dreams.

Healers believe that the mineral owes its healing properties to the unusual internal structure of bipyramidal crystals. The pyramid is a therapeutic figure, therefore zircon, following the contour of the double pyramid, is endowed by nature with greater healing power.

Zircon and zirconium - radical differences

Zircon is often confused with zirconium, but these are fundamentally different things. Zircon is a natural gemstone and zirconium is a silver-colored metal. The name cubic zirconia, or cubic zirconia, is well known and comes from its chemical composition: cubic zirconia. However, it is a mistake to call cubic zirconia zircon because cubic zirconia is a synthetic stone.

Origin story

The zirconium gemstone is the only mineral currently known that can rival a diamond in its physical characteristics. The fact is that it has a similar level of gloss, a large selection of shades of transparent material. That is why zirconium has been revered since ancient times along with natural diamonds.

Zirconium is one of the most ancient minerals on the planet. According to conservative estimates by scientists, the age of the specimens found is at least four and a half billion years. Because of its rich palette of colors, zircon was undeservedly ignored by ancient people. In particular, in ancient Greece and Rome, zircon was confused with tourmaline, topaz and even citrine. The main reason for this is the similar golden, honey tones and bright shine of the transparent mineral. From the very beginning, black market scammers have been passing off zircon as a real diamond. Although it is easy to distinguish stones from each other, even with the naked eye. This scam takes place even in our time. In ancient times, when they tried to pass off precious stones as the hardest mineral on Earth, they said that this was a special kind of diamond brought from Ceylon.

In Europe, the mineral was recognized as a separate type of gemstone only in the mid-16th century. Until this time, jewelers called varieties of red, brown and reddish colors hyacinths, golden variations were called jargolits, and blue stones were called starlites. But such names were only confusing, since the physical and chemical characteristics were identical, only the appearance and color differed. It was decided to name the group of stones as one.

Applications of zirconium dioxide

Today, stone is used to produce fireproof and refractory materials. Hafnium and uranium are also mined from it.

High quality zircons are used in the jewelry industry. The disadvantage is the low density of the mineral, so it is easy to damage. Unfortunately, in today's realities, natural zircons are almost completely forced out of the jewelry market and replaced by artificial cubic zircons. The use of zirconium is much more common in antique items.

Zircon deposits

Natural zircon.
Photo: glittersgemstones.com Zircon deposits are mainly located in Thailand, on the island of Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Madagascar. Hyacinths are also mined in the USA, Brazil, Canada, Norway and Australia.

Zircon deposits are also known in Russia, in particular in the Urals, Yakutia, and the Kola Peninsula.

Healing properties

Lithotherapists attribute healing properties to zircon, depending on the color and type of stone. They believe that blue zirconium improves bowel function and relieves constipation.

Dark colored stones help with colds and hypothermia. Yellow and red zircons stimulate appetite, and transparent ones help in the fight against excess weight. Hyacinths also have a cleansing effect.

In general, any zircon is healing, and wearing it has a positive effect on the endocrine system.

Yellow zircon helps fight inflammatory processes in the respiratory system. Malakon will provide relief for the following diseases:

• colds;
• pneumonia;
• acute sinusitis;
• rhinitis.

Green zircon is characterized by its deep green color, but it is also the most radioactive of all its varieties. Wearing it may have negative health effects.

What stones does it go with?

If the stones are not combined correctly, they can absorb each other's energy or resonate. Esotericists say that such an effect has a detrimental effect on a person. Natural zircon is best combined with sapphire, carnelian, agate, beryl, coral, amethyst, turquoise and emerald. Sometimes you can wear it with topaz if the situation requires it. A combination with jasper, opal, aquamarine, quartz, garnet, moonstone and chrysolite is undesirable.

Reference. It is better not to take risks and not allow zirconium to be combined with obsidian, malachite, sardonyx and onyx in one image, much less in one piece of jewelry.

Magic properties

It is believed that zircon changes its magical properties depending on its color. The unusual shape of the double pyramid still attracts the attention of many magic lovers. The stone develops supernatural abilities in a person, endowing its owner with the gift of prophecy.

Magicians say that zircon brings success to businessmen and entrepreneurs, suggesting the right decisions for concluding important deals and negotiating.

A small, transparent zircon will awaken in the owner an interest in science, develop intelligence, concentration and hard work.

Jewelry with zircons helps to cope with depression, find harmony, and gain energy to overcome life's difficulties.

Which zodiac signs are zirconium suitable for?

Astrologers primarily recommend wearing zircons to Aquarians . The color of the stone must match the element of the sign. The patron planets of the mineral are the Sun and Saturn.

For Capricorns , zircon is a lucky find. Representatives of this zodiac sign can collect a whole collection of precious stones of different colors. Every pebble will lend a helping hand to Capricorn.

Who should not wear zirconia?

People born under the signs of Libra, Sagittarius and Taurus should refuse such an amulet. This can have negative consequences and make these people more withdrawn.

Cancer and Pisces will also not go well with zircon.

Zircon brings good luck and protects against many troubles. It strengthens the physical and emotional state of a person. This gem has not yet been fully discovered by man and holds many secrets.

Talismans and amulets

In ancient times, shamans and magicians attributed miraculous powers to zircon. For example, a red stone gives a lady mystery and charm.

A woman wearing earrings with zircons becomes sexy, seductive and mysterious. She is able to lure any man to her.

The yellow stone is a symbol of wisdom and success. If you want to improve your relationships with people around you, improve your business, then this gem is for you.

A pendant with blue zircon is a traveler's talisman. For this reason, the blue zirconium pendant is an indispensable talisman for travelers on the road. This amulet will protect the traveler from possible troubles.

Zirconium stone

Indian yogis believe that zircon has the ability to accumulate energy, relieving fatigue and giving vigor. Wear earrings or a ring with this stone before meditation and your chakras will definitely open.

The Timid Man amulet with zirconium will help make bolder decisions and push the owner to achieve the goal.

When using zircon as a talisman, be careful not to let it touch your skin. Ideally, the gemstone should be set in a setting.

Zircon is a unique stone that is very popular due to its beauty. There are many shades of it, and each stone has unique healing and magical properties. Although its cost is low, there are incredibly many fakes. Finding an authentic stone is not easy, so when choosing, pay attention to the external signs of its naturalness.

Industrial Applications

Many people are interested in where metal zirconium is used and why it is needed. Due to its beneficial properties, it is widely used in various industries. Zirconium alloys are used in the form of superconductors. They can withstand a load of 900 kA/cm2. In radio equipment, this element can be used to cover an electronic board, which will absorb the released gas. The zirconium filter of the X-ray tube radiation is highly monochrome. Besides:

1. 
   Nuclear energy uses metal in the form of a shell for thermonuclear reactors.

2. In metallurgy, stone acts as an alloying element. It perfectly deoxidizes necessary substances - even better than manganese. Therefore, it is added to structural metal, due to which its strength increases 3 times. The cutting process is further improved.
3. In the production of corundum ceramic products, metal is the main substance.
4. Used during the manufacture of the crucible and trough of a steel furnace.
5. In the mechanical engineering process, pumps and pipe shut-off valves are made from zirconium metal. Such parts can withstand any exposure to an aggressive environment.
6. When making fireworks and fireworks, zirconium metal is always added. This element does not smoke and emits a large amount of light when burned. They are filled with tracer bullets and flares.
7. The chemical industry uses zirconium raw materials to produce metal-ceramic coatings, which are particularly durable.

Zircon - how to wear and care

Zircon stone is very hard, but brittle. It does not withstand any impact: a simple hit against a wall or other object can cause a crack or chip in the surface of the stone. Therefore, jewelry with this stone should be worn very carefully, avoiding impacts. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight is also not recommended, especially for starlights, stones of blue and blue shades as they gradually lose color saturation.

Wash your earrings, ring or pendant with zirconium with a simple soap solution.

For severe stains, you can use mild kitchen “chemicals,” but the best way to clean is a stiff toothbrush with tooth powder.

Mineral in jewelry

Despite its incredible beauty and thousand-year history, zircon often acts as a backup for the most expensive stones. And although not everyone sees this mineral as an independent gem, large jewelry companies do not neglect to use this nugget to make jewelry under their own name.

Types of decorations

Zircon shines in a wide variety of jewelry:

• rings;
• earrings;
• brooches;
• bracelets;
• pendants;
• necklace.

Colorless stones are more often used in the manufacture of wedding accessories - necklaces, tiaras, earrings, combs.

Color spectrum

The color palette of zircon is quite wide. Some of the species are known by their own name:

• Jargon is a golden yellow gem.

• Hyacinth is a stone of red, red-brown, and pink shades.

• Matar diamond is a colorless mineral.

• Starlite is a blue nugget obtained by refining (calcining) zircons of other shades.
  Read also:  Diamond pictures with a pencil - How to draw a diamond with a pencil. TOP best options for beginners
• Malakon is a dark brown, almost black stone.

Gray and green nuggets are also found. All zircons contain radioactive elements in small doses. However, only green stones are not used for jewelry, as they contain an increased dose of uranium, which can be harmful to health.

Each gem transmits light differently. There are crystal clear specimens, translucent specimens, and also completely opaque specimens.

For men

Finding jewelry with natural zircon is not easy, and even more difficult for men. Large jewelry companies, as well as individual craftsmen, are engaged in the production of such products. Average price of jewelry:

• Ring made of jewelry alloy with gold plated and black zircons – 5,800 rubles.

  
  Signet with black Zircon

• Silver bracelet with a total weight of 45 grams, inlaid with black stones (44 pcs.) – 29,800 rubles.

  
  Bracelet

• Rosary beads made of natural minerals (agate, chrysoprase, amazonite, beryl, sunstone) with a bead made of rhodium-plated fittings studded with red zircons – 2,500 rubles.

Cufflinks are also made for men. Masters work not only in the classical style, but also come up with complex original designs. Accessories in the form of skulls, bulldog heads, royal shields, pomegranates (fruit), inlaid with natural stones, look unusual and stylish.

For women

Prices for women's jewelry:

• A bracelet made of red gemstones with elements measuring 2.4*0.9 mm with a silver clasp – 2,500 rubles.

  
  Natural Zircon bracelet

• Women's watch made of 925 sterling silver, inlaid with two transparent Matar diamond inserts - 11,200 rubles.
• Silver ring with Matar diamond inserts – 10,000 rubles.

  
  Ring

• Silver stud earrings with diamond-cut stones with a total weight of 0.81 carats – 3,200 rubles.

  
  Earrings

The production of products with natural zircon is not widespread. Such accessories are rare and are mainly made to order.

Popular types of cuts

Transparent, unpainted zircons are diamond-cut. For colored samples, a fancy cut is used, combining diamond (for the upper part of the insert) and step (for the lower) varieties.

Fancy cut shape

Common shapes of stones are oval, circle, radiant, cushion, pear, emerald. Translucent and opaque zircons are processed into an oval or round cabochon.

Stone setting

The setting for the mineral is precious metals - 925 sterling silver, multi-colored gold (but more often yellow) 585 sterling. Also, some varieties of zircon are inserted into jewelry alloys intended for the manufacture of luxury jewelry.

Compatibility with other stones

Combining zircon with other minerals is not easy, since the gem is selective and does not tolerate the proximity of more brilliant stones:

• ruby;
• diamond;
• grenade;
• Morion.

Zircon is not compatible elementally and planetarily with the last two nuggets.

Since a relative of the diamond belongs to two elements at the same time (Water, Earth), the best friends of the capricious gem will be water and earth minerals:

• opal;
• emerald;
• turquoise;
• melanitis;
• Labrador;
• aventurine;
• serpentine;
• chalcedony;
• jasper;
• heliotrope.

Incomprehensible relationships develop with air stones - amethyst, chrysoprase, rock crystal, amazonite, lapis lazuli, rauchtopaz. The behavior of each mineral in such a neighborhood can be the most unexpected, so such a combination is everyone’s personal choice.

How to wear

The selection of jewelry depends on the color of the stone. Golden, yellow-brown zircons appeal to red-haired beauties. Starlits look great on blondes. Brunettes and brown-haired women can safely choose bright multi-colored options. The colorless stone has no restrictions, as it is suitable for everyone, regardless of appearance or age.

Rainbow Zircon Jewelry

It is recommended to combine calm, pastel stone tones with everyday clothing. Bright varieties of large sizes in expensive frames are evening accessories that complement an elegant outfit.

Care instructions

Zircon belongs to the category of hard, but brittle minerals. Therefore, the products require careful wearing and care. Any mechanical impact will lead to the formation of a chip or crack. The sun is destructive for starlites - blue stones lose color from prolonged exposure to direct rays. It is also undesirable to keep other types of mineral in the sun.

Clean the stones with a soap solution. Persistent stains can be removed with “mild” household chemicals. The best option is tooth powder and a brush with stiff bristles.

How to spot a fake

The most common imitation of zircon is cubic zirconia. It is a synthetic stone that skillfully replaces most precious minerals, including diamonds. Due to the similarity of names (cubic zirconia - zirconium dioxide), it is easier to sell a fake to an inattentive buyer. You can independently recognize natural zircon by examining the stone under a magnifying glass in bright light. The dipyrammidal structure of the natural zircon crystal creates a split brilliance on the facets of the gem.

Zircon itself also often acts as an imitation of diamond. The same double refraction of light gives an imitation. A diamond does not have such a split. Thus, zircon “hangs” in the middle between diamond and cubic zirconia - in cost it is cheaper than the first, but more expensive than the second. Therefore, it is very difficult to find jewelry with a natural gem.

How to distinguish natural zircon from fake?

There are several ways to identify a real stone.

To distinguish natural zircon from cubic zirconia, it is important to remember the special characteristics of the stone. As such, clear stones are very rare, but they will certainly have inclusions, voids, etc. In any case, cubic zirconia will be transparent, like a drop.

1. Zircon sparkles just like diamond, but where there are inclusions, it has a resinous tint.
2. Zircon has a very low density compared to cubic zirconia, so stones of the same size will differ in weight - zircon will be lighter than cubic zirconia.
3. Zircon is often radioactive. If you have a device that measures radiation levels, it can help determine the naturalness of the stone.

Zircon and zirconium dioxide - what's the difference?

For many people, zircon and zircon are the same thing. And when it comes to cubic stabilized zirconium, many are surprised. The truth is simple: Zirconium is a metal. On the periodic table, the metal has atomic number 40. Write Zr to a chemist and he will automatically read “zirconium.”

Zircon is the name of the mineral whose crystals are used in jewelry. Chemical formula: ZrSiO4. Look closely and you will see the designation for zirconium in the formula.

Cubic stabilized zirconium, or simply cubic zirconia. The magical invention of magicians and sorcerers at FIAN. "The poor man's diamond", a stone with excellent jewelry properties. In the jewelry industry, colored artificial zircon is used as a substitute for expensive gemstones.

If you see the inscription “Zirkton” on a store window, do not think that this is an illiterate seller. Zirkton is a brand of synthetic blue-green corundum. It is sold as an imitation sapphire.

Physico-chemical properties of stone