mineral

White Zircon

Zircon (Zirconium silicate, ZrSiO4)

Hardness: 7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless (White); Luster: Adamantine (diamond-like); Crystal Structure: Tetragonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.6–4.7; High dispersion (fire).

Hardness: 7
Color: Colorless (White)
Luster: Adamantine (diamond-like)

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless (White); Luster: Adamantine (diamond-like); Crystal Structure: Tetragonal; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.6–4.7; High dispersion (fire).

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous rocks (granites, pegmatites) and metamorphic rocks. As it is very durable, it is often found in sedimentary deposits like 'gem gravels'. Some specimens are billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primary source of zirconium metal; high-quality faceted stones are used in jewelry as a diamond alternative; used in industrial refractory applications and casting molds.

Geological facts

Zircon is the oldest known mineral on Earth, with some grains dated to 4.4 billion years. It contains trace amounts of uranium and thorium, which geologists use for radiometric dating.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high luster, specific gravity, and 'doubling' of facet edges when viewed through the table due to high birefringence. Found in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Australia.