Zircon

Physical Properties

Zircon comes in many colours. Colourless stones can resemble diamond and have been used in their place, either by mistake or intentionally. The strong double refraction of zircon makes them easy to tell apart. Some sones contain radioactive thorium and uranium which breaks down the internal crystal structure. These stones with a metamict structure are known as low zircon. Undamaged stones are known as high zircon. Zircons make an attractive gemstone though they are a little brittle so have to be worn with care. Gem quality stones are usually found as pebbles in alluvial deposits. Sri Lanka has been a huge source of gem material for many centuries. Other localities include Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Kampuchea, Australia, Brazil, Nigeria, Tanzania, Pakistan and France. Zircon was believed to provide the wearer with wisdom, honour and riches. Any loss of lustre was said to warn of danger. The name comes from the Arabic zargun, which derives from the Persian for gold colour. Chemical composition: Zirconium silicate Crystal structure: Tetragonal. Hardness: 7.5

Metaphysical Properties and Crystal Healing

Zirconm, a many coloured stone calms the emotions, providing protection against insomnia and depression. It strengthens the mind, aids bowel problems, helps in balancing the pituitary and pineal glands giving the personality more symmetry, aligns subtle bodies, emotional balance, self esteem, aids sleep, similar properties as diamond and quartz crystal, an all round healer. Also historically used as poison detoxifier. Man-made (cubic Zirconia or "CZ") is not nearly as strong or effective as the natural stone. "Pink Ice" is pink CZ.

In Astrology

Zircon is the Traditional Birthstone of Capricorn and is also associated with Libra .
The 17th century astrologer William Lilly associated Zircon with the Sun and the planet Jupiter .

7 Chakras

Differs according to colour.