Zircon Gemstone Symbolism Facts & Meaning: Zodiac, Superstitions, Dreams, and Legends
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Zircon Gemstone Facts and History
With hundreds of gemstones discovered through the centuries, Zircon appears to be the oldest and most ancient gemstone in the world and is known for its diamond-like appearance. Zircon is a nesosilicate mineral that is commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Some pieces of Zircon that are discovered in Australia date back to 4.4 billion years ago. In some parts of the world like Australia, India, Brazil, and Florida, Zircon can be found in beach sands that are carried back onto the shore by the beach waves.
Historical records suggest that the term Zircon came from the Arabic word zarkun which means “cinnabar”, a popular traditional Chinese medicine that contains naturally occurring mercuric sulfide, known for improving vision, detoxifying the body, and producing sedative effects.
In Persian, Zircon was derived from the word zargun, which means gold-like. The name was coined by the German geologist Abrahan Gottlob Werner in 1783.
With a Mohs hardness scale rating of 6 – 7.5, Zircon is highly resistant to weathering and high temperatures. Although it doesn’t have the same play of color as a diamond, Zircon’s high refractive index of 1.92 makes it an exceptional diamond substitute.
An interesting fact about Zircon is its rare optical quality known as birefringence or double fraction. When light travels through Zircon, it divides into two different paths, resulting in a high refractive index that produces sparkling displays of multi-colored lights, making it a popular gemstone among collectors and jewelry makers.
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Zircon Gemstone Uses
The commercial extraction of Zircon has become prominent for its zirconium metal, which is utilized in abrasives and insulation. Zircon is the origin of zirconium oxide, a white crystal substance primarily used in producing different types of hard ceramics.
Due to its similar appearance to diamonds, jewelers have been using Zircon as its substitute for crafting pieces of jewelry. Surprisingly, Zircons are actually much rarer than diamonds, and when cut properly, can outshine mediocre-looking diamonds.
Zircon is also believed to aid in meditation and help in developing psychic intuition with its metaphysical properties of clearing negative energy and promoting a protective aura.
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Zircon Gemstone Spiritual Meaning and Symbolism
Zircon has a range of metaphysical properties due to its high vibrations, helping individuals connect with the world. Zircon promotes clarity and is a helpful tool for knowing one’s place in the world and focusing on the more important things in life.
In the Middle Ages, it was believed that wearing Zircon could help improve the quality of one’s sleep and bring prosperity, honor, and wisdom to the wearer. According to some beliefs, Zircon had the power to enhance a person’s sense of honor and self-respect, especially in situations where they felt they were being treated poorly. Zircon was believed to boost a sense of self-worth and help individuals avoid mistreatment.
The spiritual aspect of Zircon is also connected to the element of fire which governs action, change, and inspiration. It can be used to bring energy to one’s life and embrace change and transformation.
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Zircon Gemstone Symbolism of Different Shapes and Forms
Zircon comes in different colors. However, the colorless Zircon, also known by its trade name, Matura Diamond Zircon, is seen to be the most prominent type of this cherished gemstone.
Integrating a Matura Diamond Zircon with meditation practice is good for mental clarity. Believed to symbolize innocence, purity, and wisdom, a colorless Zircon can be an essential tool to cleanse the mind, body, and spirit.
Blue Zircon, also known as Starlites, is probably one of the most popular types of Zircon and is believed to be a powerful tool for releasing stagnant energy in one’s life. When an individual is filled with negative energy due to stress, it is believed that blue Zircon can bring back or boost self-confidence.
For those who have closed themselves off emotionally, pink Zircon can be a powerful gemstone for rekindling affection and kindness. Pink gemstones are often associated with the heart chakra, helping in improving human relationships and promoting a sense of compassion and warmth.
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Zircon Gemstone Symbolism in Different Cultures
Being the oldest gemstone in the world, Zircon has been esteemed by many cultures for centuries.
The popularity of Zircon increased during the Victorian Era, as it was believed that Zircon amplified one’s wealth and personal security. It was believed to bring financial prosperity to the wearer.
In some Native American tribes, Zircon was used in ceremonial rites and has been used as a powerful talisman. However, with the historical and cultural significance of Zircon in different parts of the world, its symbolism and importance continue to evolve and adapt to contemporary beliefs and practices.
In Hindu culture, it was said that the Kalpa Tree of the Hindus has leaves of Zircon. While in medieval Europe, Zircon was used as a talisman to ward off evil forces and bring prosperity to homes.
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Zircon Gemstone in Combination with other Gems
The grounding properties of Zircon can be enhanced when it is combined with several other gemstones. Among the most effective gemstones to pair with Zircon are quartz, amethyst, citrine, and obsidian.
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Zircon Gemstone Birthstone and Zodiac Sign
Together with turquoise and tanzanite, blue Zircon is one of the modern birthstones for those born in December under the Sagittarius zodiac sign. Sagittarians are known for their lively and outgoing nature, making them quite likable. Blue Zircon can be beneficial when a Sagittarian is feeling stagnant and yearns to rediscover their cheerful and vibrant self.
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Zircon Gemstone in Dreams
Dreaming of Zircon may symbolize a feeling of not deserving the kind of life one truly desires. It could indicate that a person is accepting less than they should and is settling for mediocrity. This dream may serve as a reminder to value and respect oneself and to aim for what one truly deserves.
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Zircon Gemstone Omens and Superstitions
While there are no found superstitions associated with Zircon, it was historically believed that Zircons were worn as protective amulets, particularly by travelers to prevent injuries and diseases. It was said that when the wearer of Zircon fell ill, the gemstone would lose its luster and brightness.
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Zircon Gemstone Mythology and Folklore
In medieval folklore, Zircon was thought to improve the quality of sleep, ensuring a well-balanced rest. Some myths suggested that Zircon had the power to guide individuals to find their way under the light of the moon and stars.
Referred to as the “stone of virtue,” Zircon was believed to possess healing and grounding properties that promoted balance in all aspects of life. According to folklore, Zircon was associated with detoxification, easing pain and cramps. Its grounding qualities were thought to protect against nightmares, reduce stress, and alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
