Zircon is a mineral that is commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is composed of zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4) and is known for its remarkable hardness and high refractive index, which makes it a popular choice in the jewelry industry. Zircon can occur in a range of colors, including colorless, yellow, brown, red, and green, depending on the presence of trace elements and radiation effects. Colorless zircon is often used as a diamond substitute, while colored zircon is prized for its natural beauty.

Zircon is also used in industrial applications, such as in the production of ceramics, refractories, and as a source of zirconium metal. The mineral is notable for its ability to preserve geological information, as its crystals can survive in rocks for millions of years, making it useful in geochronology for dating the age of rocks.

Zircon's unique properties, such as its high density and resistance to radiation, make it valuable in scientific research, particularly in studying the Earth's history.