Zircon Jewelry – Great Choice

When it comes to jewelry, there are few stones that are as versatile and stunning as zircon. Known for its unique brilliance and fire, zircon jewelry has long been a popular choice for both casual and formal occasions.

Despite its popularity, many people are not familiar with zircon as a gemstone, often confusing it with cubic zirconia. While the two may sound similar, they are entirely different stones with their unique properties and characteristics.

In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of zircon jewelry. We’ll explore the history of this gemstone, its properties, and what makes it such a great choice for jewelry. We’ll also discuss some popular styles and designs, as well as tips for shopping and caring for your zircon jewelry.

Whether you’re a seasoned jewelry enthusiast or simply looking to add some new pieces to your collection, you won’t want to miss this guide to zircon jewelry. So sit back, relax, and let’s explore the wonderful world of zircon together!

Understanding Zircon Gemstone

Zircon is a natural gemstone that belongs to the nesosilicate mineral family. It is one of the oldest minerals on earth, with some zircon crystals dating back more than 4 billion years. The name “zircon” comes from the Arabic word “zargun,” which means “golden.”

Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliance and fire that rivals diamonds. It can be found in a wide range of colors, including blue, green, yellow, brown, and red, with blue being the most popular.

Zircon is also valued for its clarity, with many stones being nearly flawless. However, it is important to note that zircon can have a range of inclusions, including radioactive elements like uranium and thorium. While these inclusions do not pose a significant health risk, they can impact the stone’s color and clarity.

Overall, zircon is a unique and beautiful gemstone that is both durable and affordable, making it an excellent choice for jewelry. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at some popular styles and designs of zircon jewelry.

Zircon Jewelry Design and Styles

Zircon can be used in a variety of jewelry designs, from vintage and classic to modern and trendy. Its unique brilliance and fire make it an excellent choice for statement pieces, such as cocktail rings and pendant necklaces.

One popular style of zircon jewelry is the halo ring, which features a central zircon stone surrounded by smaller diamonds or zircons. The halo setting enhances the stone’s brilliance and makes it appear larger than it is.

Another popular design is the tennis bracelet, which features a row of zircon stones set in a bracelet. This classic design is perfect for formal occasions and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit.

For those who prefer a more vintage look, zircon can be used in intricate and delicate designs. Filigree, Art Deco, and Victorian-style settings are perfect for showcasing the unique beauty of zircon.

Zircon is also a popular choice for birthstone jewelry, as it is the birthstone for December. It can be used in a variety of styles, from simple stud earrings to more elaborate pendant necklaces.

No matter what your style, zircon jewelry offers a wide range of design options to choose from. In the next section, we’ll explore the durability and maintenance of zircon jewelry.

The Durability and Maintenance of Zircon Jewelry

Zircon is a relatively durable gemstone, with a rating of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. While not as hard as diamonds, it is still considered to be a good choice for everyday wear. However, it is important to note that zircon can be brittle and can chip or fracture if not handled with care.

To ensure the longevity of your zircon jewelry, it is recommended to remove it before engaging in any physical activity, such as sports or housework. Zircon jewelry should also be stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching.

Cleaning zircon jewelry is relatively easy, and it can be done using warm, soapy water and a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.

It is also important to note that zircon can be sensitive to heat and light. Exposure to high temperatures or prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the stone to change color or lose its brilliance. To avoid this, it is recommended to store your zircon jewelry in a cool, dark place when not in use.

With proper care and maintenance, zircon jewelry can last a lifetime. And, as we’ll explore in the next section, it is also an affordable option for those on a budget.

The Affordability of Zircon Jewelry

One of the most attractive qualities of zircon jewelry is its affordability. Compared to other gemstones like diamonds, emeralds, and rubies, zircon is relatively inexpensive, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

Despite its affordability, zircon offers many of the same qualities as more expensive gemstones. Its unique brilliance and fire make it a great alternative to diamond jewelry, and its wide range of colors means that it can be used in a variety of designs.

In fact, some jewelry designers are specifically using zircon as a cost-effective alternative to diamonds in their designs. This allows them to offer high-quality, beautiful pieces at a fraction of the cost of traditional diamond jewelry.

Another advantage of zircon is that it is a natural stone, meaning that it has not been artificially created in a lab like cubic zirconia. This can be an important factor for those who prefer natural gemstones in their jewelry.

Overall, zircon offers an affordable option for those looking for beautiful, high-quality jewelry without breaking the bank. In the next section, we’ll offer some tips for shopping for zircon jewelry.

How to Shop for Zircon Jewelry

When shopping for zircon jewelry, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. These include the quality of the stone, the design of the piece, and the reputation of the jeweler.

First and foremost, it is important to look for high-quality zircon stones. This means looking for stones that are clear, bright, and well-cut, with a good level of brilliance and fire. It is also important to make sure that the stone is free from any visible inclusions or cracks that could impact its durability or appearance.

When it comes to the design of the jewelry, there are many options to choose from, including classic and modern styles. Consider your personal style and preferences, as well as the occasion for which the jewelry will be worn.

Finally, it is important to choose a reputable jeweler when shopping for zircon jewelry. Look for jewelers who have a solid reputation and who offer a guarantee of the quality of their products. You can also look for certifications, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certification, which can ensure the authenticity and quality of the stone.

In addition, it is important to consider the pricing of the jewelry. While zircon is more affordable than many other gemstones, prices can still vary depending on the quality of the stone and the design of the jewelry. Be sure to do your research and compare prices from different jewelers to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Zircon jewelry is a unique and affordable option for those looking for beautiful and high-quality jewelry. By considering the quality of the stone, the design of the piece, and the reputation of the jeweler, you can find the perfect zircon jewelry to suit your style and budget.

Conclusion: Why Zircon Jewelry is a Great Choice

Zircon jewelry offers many advantages for those looking for beautiful and affordable pieces. Its unique brilliance and fire make it a great alternative to more expensive gemstones, while its wide range of colors means that it can be used in a variety of designs.

In addition to its beauty, zircon is also a relatively durable stone, making it a good choice for everyday wear. With proper care and maintenance, zircon jewelry can last a lifetime, making it a great investment for those on a budget.

When shopping for zircon jewelry, it is important to consider the quality of the stone, the design of the piece, and the reputation of the jeweler. By doing so, you can ensure that you are getting a high-quality piece that is both beautiful and long-lasting.

Overall, zircon jewelry is a great choice for those looking for affordable, high-quality pieces that offer unique beauty and style. Whether you’re looking for a classic or modern piece, zircon jewelry is sure to impress and delight for years to come.

FAQs

1. Is zircon good for jewelry?

Zircon itself does not change color, but the color of zircon jewelry can appear different under certain lighting conditions. This is because the color of zircon is influenced by the presence of certain trace elements in the mineral, such as iron, uranium, and thorium.

For example, blue zircon can appear more grayish or greenish under fluorescent lighting, while yellow or brown zircon can appear more red or orange under incandescent lighting. This is due to differences in the wavelengths of light that are emitted by different light sources, which can affect how the colors of the zircon are perceived.

It is also important to note that some zircon stones can be heat-treated to enhance their color or to create a more vibrant hue. Heat treatment is a common practice in the gemstone industry, and can improve the appearance of some zircon stones. However, it is important to purchase zircon jewelry from a reputable jeweler who can provide information on any treatments that the stone has undergone.

While zircon jewelry itself does not change color, the way the color of the stone is perceived can vary depending on the lighting conditions and the presence of trace elements.

6. Does zircon jewelry tarnish?

Zircon jewelry itself does not tarnish because zircon is a mineral and is not affected by oxidation or other chemical reactions. However, the metal used in the jewelry, such as gold or silver, can tarnish over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and other environmental factors.

To prevent tarnishing of the metal in zircon jewelry, it is important to store it in a dry and air-tight place when not in use. It is also important to avoid exposing the jewelry to harsh chemicals, such as perfume or cleaning agents, as these can damage the metal and cause it to tarnish more quickly.

If you notice tarnish on your zircon jewelry, you can clean it using a soft cloth and a mild jewelry cleaner. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner carefully, and avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the zircon or the metal.

While zircon jewelry itself does not tarnish, the metal used in the jewelry can tarnish over time. With proper care and maintenance, however, you can keep your zircon jewelry looking beautiful and shiny for many years to come.