Zircon

Zircon is one of the birthstones for December (other December birthstones are turquoise and tanzanite). Zircon gemstone colors are red, orange, yellow, brown, green and blue. Colorless zircon is known for its brilliance and flashes of multicolored light called fire. The sparkle of zircon is second only to diamond. 

Zircon is often located near sapphire sources. In addition to Sri Lanka and Australia which are major producers, countries where the two gems overlap include Myanmar, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Zircon ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is commonly heat treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow and red. The gem is generally stable when exposed to light, but some heat-treated stones may revert to their original colors (usually light brown) after prolonged exposure to bright light. Exposure to heat can alter the color of some zircon. 

Because zircon tends to abrade, it is best to avoid wearing it in rough conditions, such as while gardening, playing sports or doing dishes.

Don’t be confused by the name. Zircon is a natural, magnificent, and underrated gemstone that has been worn and treasured since ancient times. It’s not cubic zirconia.