Natural brilliance, with a history of its own. Zircon is a naturally occurring gemstone prized for lively reflection and flashes of spectral colour.
A Record of Deep Time
Zircon is more than a gemstone; it is also one of geology’s most important timekeepers. Tiny zircon crystals from the Jack Hills of Western Australia have been dated to about 4.4 billion years old, preserving a record from one of the earliest chapters of Earth’s history.
Its exceptional durability helps that record survive. Because zircon can incorporate uranium as it forms, scientists can use the gradual decay of uranium to lead within the crystal as a geological clock. This uranium-lead dating method has helped researchers reconstruct events from the earliest history of our planet.
Zircon, Not Cubic Zirconia
Natural zircon and cubic zirconia are entirely different materials. Zircon is a gemstone formed in nature, while cubic zirconia is a laboratory-created material. The similarity in their names often causes confusion, but their origins and compositions are distinct.
Selected for Light
At Cirque D’Or, natural zircon is selected for clarity, proportion, and the brightness it brings to a design. Its ability to return light makes it particularly effective as a precise point of brilliance within sculptural metalwork.
Natural Variation
As with any natural gemstone, subtle differences in clarity and appearance can occur from stone to stone. These variations are part of its natural character.
Care
Avoid rough wear, sharp impact, excessive friction, and contact with harder jewellery. Clean natural zircon gently with mild soapy water and dry thoroughly.