Blue zircon
Natural blue zircon stone price and meaning. Considered by many gem enthusiasts as the brightest blue stone for jewelry, it is often set as a ring, necklace, or earrings. As a result of its remarkable sparkle, blue zircon is a perfect gift for special occasions—especially as an engagement ring set on white gold. This gemstone is known not only for its vibrant hue but also for its exceptional brilliance, making it a prized option for those seeking a striking alternative to more common blue stones.
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The brightest blue gemstone
There are only a few gemstone varieties of blue color that combine both notable hardness and captivating gloss. Sapphire is the most famous, while blue topaz is widely popular, often achieved by the irradiation of colorless topaz. Blue topaz is found in various shades and is readily available at attractive prices. Other popular choices include tanzanite, which exhibits a mesmerizing blue-violet color, and aquamarine, which displays a softer, lighter blue. In some instances, tourmaline and spinel can also be found in blue, though such occurrences are rare.
Blue zircon is arguably the gemstone with the brightest blue color. Its refractive index surpasses that of sapphire, tanzanite, and spinel, leading to remarkable brilliance. Despite these stunning qualities, blue zircon remains less known by the general public, often confused with cubic zirconia—a synthetic diamond simulant. In reality, zircon is a completely natural mineral. Technically defined as zirconium silicate, it can be found in a wide range of colors, including colorless.
The blue color of zircon commonly results from the heat treatment of brown zircon. However, not all brown zircons turn blue during heating—only those with the right physical structure exhibit this desirable transformation. Because of this, Cambodia remains the leading source for fine-quality stones that can be successfully heated to yield the brilliant blue zircon.
Brown zircon turns to blue after heat treatment
Gemolocial description
Natural zircon is a mineral belonging to the nesosilicates group. Chemically, it is zirconium silicate, with the formula ZrSiO4. Zircon forms in silicate melts that contain large proportions of high-field-strength, incompatible elements. Hafnium is almost always present in quantities from 1% to 4%. The crystal structure of zircon belongs to the tetragonal crystal system.
Zircon is ubiquitous in the Earth’s crust, occurring as a common accessory mineral in igneous rocks, as a primary crystallization product in metamorphic rocks, and as detrital grains in sedimentary rocks. Large zircon crystals are relatively rare; their average size in granite rocks typically ranges from 0.1 to 0.3 mm, but they can grow several centimeters long in special geological environments like mafic pegmatites and carbonatites.
Zircon occurs in a variety of colors, including colorless, yellow-golden, red, brown, green, and the highly coveted blue.
Pailin’s diamond
Colorless zircon is sometimes referred to as “Matura diamond.” In Cambodia, local people frequently call colorless zircon “Pailin’s diamond,” even though no true diamond is found in that region. Pailin is a province located in western Cambodia near the border with Thailand and is well-known for its gem deposits, particularly zircon.
Natural zircon from Ratanakiri, Cambodia
Historical and cultural significance
Throughout history, zircon—including blue zircon—has been prized for its brilliance and positive energies. Many ancient cultures valued zircon as a protective talisman for travelers. Blue zircon, in particular, was thought to safeguard against misfortune and bring luck to those embarking on long journeys. Today, it continues to be admired for its captivating color and is a popular choice for artisanal and fine jewelry.
Care and maintenance for blue zircon jewelry
Blue zircon is moderately hard (7.5 on the Mohs scale), yet it should still be protected from rough wear. When cleaning, gentle methods are best—such as warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, which could damage more delicate settings. Proper care ensures your blue zircon jewelry remains lustrous and vibrant for years to come.
Blue zircon meaning and metaphysical properties
The following section is pseudo-scientific and based on cultural beliefs.
An alternative birthstone for December
The meaning of blue zircon stone is often associated with mental clarity. Symbolically, it is believed to promote purity of thought and help release stagnant energy that may accumulate due to stress. This cleansing effect can be beneficial for regaining self-confidence and overcoming negative thoughts.
Blue zircon is also considered an alternative birthstone for December. Its vibrant hue serves as a striking choice for those seeking an original gemstone to represent the final month of the year.
FAQ
What is blue zircon worth?
Small gemstones with low quality, lighter blue color, or poor cut can wholesale for as low as $5 per carat. Meanwhile, top gem-quality blue zircon can command prices up to $200 per carat. Stones over 10 carats with exceptional color and clarity may range from $150 to $500 per carat.
Is blue zircon rare?
Yes, it is rare—much rarer than diamonds. However, it is less expensive because fewer people know about it and demand is relatively lower. The blue variety is considered the most valuable and highly sought after among zircon colors.
What is blue zircon used for?
Blue zircon is believed to possess purifying properties against negative energy. Historically, it was used as a protective talisman, and many still regard it as a stone that helps cleanse one’s energy. It is also highly admired for its beauty in jewelry, from rings and earrings to pendants.
Who should wear blue zircon?
In Indian astrology, blue zircon is recommended for Tula (Libra) and Vrishabha (Taurus) rashi. Western astrology associates it with the birthstone for Cancer. People with Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn, or Aquarius ascendants may also benefit from wearing this gemstone.
Does blue zircon fade?
Natural blue zircon color may fade if exposed to direct sunlight over a long period. However, keeping it in a dark place, like a safe or a drawer, usually restores its vibrant color. Limiting prolonged exposure to direct sunlight is recommended to maintain its hue.
How can you tell a real zircon stone?
Zircon is characterized by high birefringence, which can make the stone appear slightly fuzzy when viewed from certain angles. It also has a higher specific gravity, making it noticeably heavier than many other blue gemstones.
Is zircon the same as cubic zirconia?
Although they sound similar, zircon and cubic zirconia are completely different. Natural zircon is a mined gemstone (zirconium silicate), while cubic zirconia is a lab-grown diamond simulant (zirconium dioxide). Blue zircon is formed by natural processes in the Earth’s crust, whereas cubic zirconia is synthesized in a laboratory and has different optical and physical properties.
Natural blue zircon for sale in our gem shop
We create custom-made blue zircon jewelry, including engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, and pendants. Please contact us for a quote.