For those just beginning their journey into the world of gemstones, zircon is a true hidden gem. Celebrated for its exceptional brilliance and impressive density, zircon stands out among colored stones. While it is relatively abundant in nature, high-quality specimens—those with vivid color and excellent clarity—are surprisingly rare.
Most gem-quality zircons are sourced from alluvial deposits. As granite rocks gradually erode, the durable zircon crystals are carried by water and settle in riverbeds, where they can be collected over time.
Today, the jewelry industry obtains zircon primarily from Cambodia, Myanmar, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. However, much of the material extracted contains visible fractures or lacks rich color saturation. This makes large, vibrant, and clean zircon crystals especially rare—and highly prized by gem collectors and jewelry designers alike.
One of Zircon’s most captivating qualities is its impressive range of natural colors. It can be found in hues of red, yellow, green, and even blue. However, stones with pure, vivid color—free from brownish or muddy undertones—are exceptionally rare. That’s why most zircon on the market undergoes heat treatment to enhance its appearance, resulting in either a striking greenish-blue hue or a brilliant colorless stone that rivals diamonds in sparkle.
Zircon’s remarkable optical properties are a major part of its charm. Its high dispersion—the ability to break light into a spectrum of colors—creates a vivid play of rainbow flashes across the surface. When combined with expert faceting, the result is a gemstone that radiates intense color and brilliance.
A distinctive feature that sets zircon apart is its strong double refraction, which can be seen even without magnification. This optical effect gives the stone a slightly doubled appearance when viewed from certain angles and is a reliable indicator for identifying natural zircon.
Sky-blue zircons are showcased in the "Daily Gems," "Metropolis," and "Colored Dew" collections. One of the standout creations is the "Arctic" ring from the "Spheres" collection, where the zircon’s icy blue hue captures the essence of frozen light. Its crystalline clarity and cool saturation are beautifully balanced with snowy white pearls, creating a design that feels both crisp and luminous—like a breath of Arctic air captured in a jewel.
Explore more designs in our section: Jewelry with zircons.
