zircon

     

Zircon is a mineral belonging to the group of nesosilicates. Its chemical name is zirconium silicate an its corresponding chemical formula is ZrSiO4. Hafnium is almost always present in quantities ranging from 1 to 4%. The crystal structure of zircon is tetragonal crystal class. The natural color of zircon varies between colorless, yellow-golden, red, brown, and green. Colorless specimens that show gem quality are a popular substitute for diamond; these specimens are also known as "Matura diamond". It is not to be confused with cubic zirconia, a synthetic substance with a completely different chemical composition.

Trivia about zircon

  • The name of this gemstone is from the Persian "zargun" meaning gold-colored
  • One birthstone of the last month of the year is this 6-letter gem that starts with the last letter of the alphabet
  • A Matura diamond is actually a variety of this mineral that's used as a diamond substitute
  • Give me a Z! One crystal of this 6-letter mineral was found in sandstone formed in Australia about 4.4 bil. years ago
  • The matura diamond is a colorless variety of this 6-letter mineral

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