Is zircon expensive?

As a gemstone expert with years of experience in the field, I can tell you that the cost of zircon is influenced by a variety of factors, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, much like other gemstones. Let's delve into the details to understand why zircon can range from being relatively inexpensive to quite valuable. Color: Zircon is known for its wide array of colors. The most common colors are brown, yellow, and red, which are generally less expensive. However, blue zircon, which is often heat-treated to enhance its color, can be more costly. The rarest and most valuable color is the bright red variety known as "hyacinth zircon." Clarity: Zircon gemstones are often quite clear, which adds to their beauty. The fewer inclusions a zircon has, the more valuable it is. High clarity zircons can be quite sought after. Cut: The cut of a zircon can significantly impact its appearance and, therefore, its value. A well-cut zircon will reflect light beautifully, enhancing its color and sparkle. Carat Weight: Larger zircons are rarer than smaller ones, so their price tends to increase with size. A zircon of significant size and high quality can be quite expensive. Origin: The place where a gemstone is mined can also affect its price. Zircons from certain mines are more highly regarded and can command higher prices. Treatment: Many zircons on the market have been heat-treated to improve their color. While this is a common and accepted practice in the industry, it's worth noting that untreated zircons can be more valuable. Demand: As with any gemstone, the demand for zircon can fluctuate. If there's a surge in popularity for zircon jewelry, for example, prices may rise. Mistaking Zircon for Diamond: It's true that zircon has been historically used as a diamond simulant due to its high refractive index and similar sparkle. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it's cheap. In fact, a high-quality zircon can be quite expensive, especially if it closely resembles a diamond in appearance. Radioactivity: It's important to note that while some zircons do contain trace amounts of radioactive elements, the levels are typically so low that they pose no harm to the wearer. This fact is often misunderstood and can lead to misconceptions about the value of zircon. In conclusion, while zircon can be found at a relatively low cost, it can also be a valuable and sought-after gemstone, especially in its more vibrant and rarer colors. The cost of zircon is determined by a combination of factors, and it's always worth having a gemstone appraised by a professional to determine its true value.

The Gemstone Zircon. Zircon is an important gemstone of many colors, and is an historical gemstone used for thousands of years. It is sometimes looked upon as a cheap Diamond simulant, but in actuality it can be a valuable gem. Its color diversity is caused by traces of certain impurities, some of which are radioactive ...