What Are Zircon Gemstones?

Zircon gemstones are not as frequently mentioned as other stones used in the design of popular jewelry pieces. In simplest terms, zircon is a nesosilicate mineral. Colors vary from clear to yellow, blue, green, red and a variety of brown hues. Because colorless pieces can be made to imitate diamonds, they are frequently termed Matura diamonds. In the 19^th century, these stones were used to create jewelry pieces that were more affordable to a wider audience than diamond pieces could ever be.

Buyers who do know of the zircon usually prefer to purchase blue varieties. Generally caused by the judicious treatment with heat during the cutting, polishing and setting process, it is nevertheless a highly valued variety. As a result, blue zircon is one of the more expensive types of these gemstones that are currently on the market. In fact, its cost has surpassed the expense of buying authentic blue topaz.

It is rare to find visible inclusions in zircon. While some pieces show cloudiness, heat treatment usually fixes this slight flaw. Interestingly, it was this kind of cloudy appearance that made the gemstone a favorite among Victorian jewelry buyers who were looking for suitable mourning jewelry. Another flaw that is rarely found – but still welcome – is the cat’s eye effect. On the few occasions that a stone does present with this setup, jewelry makers will usually cut it as a cabochon to heighten the visual effect.

Please note that zircon and cubic zirconia are not related but for the similarity in the spelling. Zircon is a properly mined gemstone whereas cubic zirconia is a synthetic product. It is not uncommon for novices to mistakenly use the terms interchangeably. Zircon is difficult to cut because of its brittle nature. Common cuts include brilliant, step cut and pavilion styles. If you choose to wear a ring with a zircon in its setting, note that it is possible for the edges to wear visibly when worn daily or exposed to hard materials on a regular basis.

Buying a zircon is not inexpensive. Depending on the color, the general market price is $100 per carat. Blue stones do, of course, demand higher prices. Yellow and orange stones are frequently offered in middle sizes that weigh in at five carats. Red or purple stones tend to be smaller. Blue or green stones tend to be bigger, with 10 carats not being unheard of. Set these stones in platinum, yellow or white gold for the most stunning effects. Modern artisans have also reported that rose gold is becoming a favorite among the modern jewelry buyers with a strong hankering for an old world style.

At Peter Suchy Jewelers we are experts at vintage and antique jewelry and we often carry a variety of Zircon jewelry pieces. Please stop by our showroom located at 1137 High Ridge Road in Stamford Connecticut to view our amazing inventory.

Or, if you enjoy shopping for antique and vintage jewelry online, head on over to our eBay store where you’ll find we are a top-rated PowerSeller.

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