ZIRCON

ZIRCON

Zircon is not to be confused with Zirconia, Cubic Zirconia or Zirconium which is a man-made diamond substitute.

In fact, Zircon is the oldest gemstone ever discovered; it is also the oldest item on the planet! To be precise, it is 4.4 billion years old!

Zircon is very resistant to heat and corrosion. These properties made it able to survive geologic processes like erosion, transport and even high-grade metamorphism (alterations of compositions and structures of rocks due to cycles of heat and pressure), they become valuable resources for scientists to study geochronology and the evolution of earth and space. There is even a branch of studies called Zirconology.

Scholars cannot agree on the origin of the name Zircon. Many think that it comes from the Arabic word zarkun, meaning "cinnabar" or "vermilion". Others believe it comes from the Persian zargun, meaning "gold coloured"; or from the Arabic zirk which means "jewel". Either of these speculations seem possible.

Zircon rival diamonds in its unique high dispersion and refractive index. Its double refraction means that when light enters the gem, this light "bounces" into two rays of light which then disperses into a myriad of rainbow colours. This "fire" is therefore much more intense than the sparkles of diamonds.

Zircon comes in a variety of colors: reddish brown, yellow, green, gray and colorless (in rare cases, pink, purple and red).

Zircon possesses many healing properties. In the Middle Ages, this gem was thought to induce sound sleep, drive away evil spirits, and promote riches, honour and wisdom.

It is said to be beneficial in all of the chakras as it stimulates energy and activates them. It gives inspiration to the wearer to act with purpose and confidence.

Zircon also benefits the physical body and brings healing balances. It is powerful in soothing pain, removing viruses and stopping infection of the digestive system. It even helps to normalize cardiac arrythmia. Please note that crystals should only be used as a complementary healing tool. It should never replace conventional medical treatments.

If one suffers from asthma and allergies, the crystal can also help tame these conditions. Zircon is also great for healing bronchitis and lung issues. The stone has also been found to relieve painful menstruation and when it comes to sexual interest, zircon is believed to enhance desire.

Zircon has been around for eons and survived extreme environmental conditions. It is an incredible crystal with multiple benefits for the body, mind and soul.