Earth Treasures: Yellow Zircon
By Chisom Ibemere
Yellow zircon is a gemstone with a rich history, captivating color, and widespread occurrence.
Zircon is one of the oldest gemstones known to humans, with a history dating back thousands of years. Yellow zircon, specifically, has been used since ancient times and was particularly popular in Victorian jewelry.
It was often used as an alternative to diamonds due to its vibrant yellow color and high brilliance.
Yellow zircon, like other colored zircons, is basically used in jewelry. It is often faceted into various shapes like rounds, ovals, cushions, or emerald cuts to enhance its light reflection and brilliance.
Yellow zircon is typically set in rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets. It is a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and eye-catching gemstone.
Yellow Zircon is widespread all over the world, but significant deposits of yellow zircon are primarily sourced from Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar.
Other notable occurrences include Australia, Tanzania, and the United States. These widespread sources contribute to the availability and affordability of yellow zircon.
Yellow zircon is a variety of zircon, a silicate mineral. It has a refractive index comparable to diamonds, making it an attractive gemstone choice.
Yellow zircons can vary in shade from pale yellow to deep golden hues, with higher saturation being more valuable. They have a high hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them suitable for everyday jewelry.
The value of yellow zircon, like any gemstone, is influenced by factors such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Vivid and saturated yellow zircons tend to be more valuable. Gemstones without visible inclusions or flaws command higher prices.
Yellow zircon has a long history, being used in jewelry for centuries. It is primarily valued for its vibrant yellow color and exceptional brilliance.
With its widespread occurrence, yellow zircon can be found in various parts of the world, making it more accessible and affordable. The global value of yellow zircon varies based on factors like color, clarity, and carat weight.