Your Guide To Zircon Jewelry

Gemstone enthusiasts can explore a wide variety of stones. From dazzling diamonds to fashionable jade, these beautiful gems vary in color, luster, and value. However, one gemstone that is often overlooked is zircon.

What is Zircon Jewelry?

Zircon is a mineral that has been used in jewelry making for generations. It is a semi-precious stone that occurs naturally and comes in various colors, including brown, red, blue, yellow, and white. When added to jewelry, this understated yet popular gemstone can lend a piece infinite charm and grandeur.

White zircon closely resembles diamonds, making it a popular choice for affordable jewelry. Besides white zircon, blue zircon is also widely used. While pale blue zircon is common, deep blue zircon can also be found. Zircon is often named based on its color:

• Starlight: Typically heat-treated blue zircon. The color of starlight zircon is rarely naturally mature.

• Diamante: White zircon, named for its diamond-like appearance.

• Terminology: Colorless, pale yellow, or gray zircon.

• Jacinth: Yellow, brown, orange, or red zircon.

Where is Zircon Found?

Zircon is a mineral found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. They can also be found in beach sand deposits. This stone is mined worldwide, including in Australia, South Africa, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, Brazil, and Kenya.

Why is Zircon So Popular in Jewelry Making?

Though zircon may seem like a lesser-known gemstone, it has been widely used by jewelers throughout history and across various regions, and for good reasons:

Variety of Colors:

Zircon comes in a wide range of colors, from fiery reds to cool blues, and many shades in between. While some colors sparkle when cut, others, like blue zircon, are often heat-treated. Whatever the process, zircon offers jewelers a diverse palette to work with.

Luster:

Zircon is known for its high refractive index (the stone's ability to bend light) and high dispersion (the stone's ability to scatter white light into various spectral colors), resulting in a brilliant luster. The higher the luster of the gemstone, the more appealing the jewelry.

Natural Diamond Substitute:

Due to its luster, colorless zircon is often considered an ideal natural substitute for diamonds in jewelry making.

Durability:

Zircon is a relatively hard stone with good physical durability. Although it may not last as long as diamonds, it is still a durable gemstone for necklaces, rings, earrings, and more.

Is Zircon Expensive?

Interestingly, zircon is rarer than diamonds. However, they do not have a high market value. In fact, zircon jewelry is quite affordable. Depending on size and piece, a good zircon necklace set might start at around 2000 INR.

Why Buy Zircon Jewelry?

• Versatile: With a variety of colors, zircon can be versatile. Like most gemstones, they add elegance and charm to jewelry. You can find zircon jewelry for any occasion, whether it's festive or everyday wear.
• Affordable Gemstone Alternative: If you're looking for affordable yet tasteful jewelry, zircon is your best bet. While not as expensive as other precious gemstones, they still provide the brilliance and feel you desire. Want a piece of jewelry with diamond-like elegance? Look for pieces adorned with white zircon. See a piece resembling aquamarine or blue topaz? Opt for blue zircon jewelry. Explore GIVA's collection of white zircon jewelry here.
• Durable: Zircon is hard, lustrous, and chemically stable. With proper care, zircon jewelry can last for many years!

How to Ensure You’re Buying Genuine Zircon Jewelry?

Unfortunately, it is not easy to detect the authenticity of zircon. Here are some checks customers can perform to ensure they are buying genuine jewelry:

• Watch for Marketing Terms: Zircon is often confused with cubic zirconia (CZ). While the names sound similar, it’s important to note that CZ is a synthetic diamond substitute, not zircon. So, when buying zircon jewelry, carefully read the details to ensure the gemstone used is indeed zircon, not CZ.
• Buy from Reputable Sellers: Ensure you purchase zircon jewelry from a trusted and genuine seller.
• Test Its Luster: High-quality zircon has excellent luster and shine. When inspecting jewelry, do so in a bright room under a light source. If the gem has a good luster and emits various colors from the VIBGYOR spectrum, it is likely genuine zircon. However, this test cannot guarantee the stone is zircon, only that it is of high quality.

Zircon vs. Diamond: Which is Better?

People often think zircon is cheaper than diamond. However, this comparison is unfair to both gemstones as they each have unique qualities. So, the short answer to whether diamonds are better than zircon (or vice versa) depends on the buyer's needs:

• Price: Although zircon is rarer, diamonds are much more expensive. If you are looking for affordable jewelry on a very tight budget, consider zircon. On the other hand, diamonds are much more expensive, in high demand, and considered one of the world's most precious gemstones.
• Resale Value: Unlike precious metals like gold, gemstones (whether precious or not) do not have high resale value. However, diamonds still retain some resale value, often fetching 25% to 50% of the purchase price. Zircon, however, does not. If you consider buying gemstones with resale value, diamonds are the best choice.
• Luster: White zircon, with its high refractive index and dispersion, is the closest natural alternative to diamonds. However, they are considered substitutes for a reason. Zircon does not sparkle or shine as much as diamonds.
• Durability: Diamonds are the hardest substance on Earth. Combined with their lasting luster, these gems are referenced in the famous adage, "A diamond is forever." While zircon is relatively hard and lustrous, it is not as durable as its precious counterpart. Zircon requires more care as it can break easily. Over time, these semi-precious stones may also lose their luster.

How Long Can Zircon Jewelry Last?

Zircon is relatively hard with bright luster, allowing it to last a long time. However, several factors can affect zircon’s durability:

• Rough Handling: Although zircon is relatively hard, it is not the toughest gemstone. Mishandling can scratch or damage its surface.
• Light Exposure: Zircon is quite stable in sunlight. However, if the gemstone has been heat-treated (as most blue zircons are), it might lose its luster. This loss can be reversed if the stone undergoes the heat-treatment process again.

How to Care for Zircon to Prolong Its Lifespan?

Worried that your zircon jewelry might not be as durable as expected? Don't fret. A little care can keep them looking good for a long time. Here are some zircon care tips:

• Storage: Store zircon jewelry in a dark place with a smooth surface (to avoid scratching). Wrap the jewelry in soft cotton or velvet cloth.
• Avoid Excessive Sunlight: Frequent exposure to sunlight can cause your zircon jewelry to lose its luster. Therefore, avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. When not in use, store them in a dark place.
• Avoid Harmful Chemicals: While zircon is stable and doesn’t react with chemicals, it’s best to avoid direct contact with everyday items that contain harsh chemicals, like detergents, cosmetics, and cleaners. It’s safer to remove jewelry immediately after use. If you need to clean the jewelry, use mild soapy water.

CONTACT US

Shancheng Jewelry Co, Ltd. passionately designs and crafts exquisite jewelry. Leveraging our extensive experience, we deliver top-notch rings, necklaces, earrings, and more. Our dynamic design team consistently innovates to cater to diverse customer needs.

For inquiries about our products, feel free to reach out to us anytime through the following channels:

• Whatsapp: +86 18927912670
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