Zircon
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameZircon
Chemical FormulaZrSiO4
Mohs Hardness7.5
Crystal Systemtetragonal
Lusteradamantine
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageindistinct/poor on {110}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity4.68
Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, yellow, green, blue, colorless
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityTuxedo, Henderson County, North Carolina, USA
Mineral GroupSilicates
Usesgemstone, source of zirconium, geochronology
Associated Mineralsquartz, feldspar, biotite, magnetite
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen displays a reddish-brown, somewhat blocky crystal of zircon, exhibiting its characteristic adamantine luster. The crystal appears to be embedded in a matrix, possibly of other rock-forming minerals.
Geological Context
Zircon is a common accessory mineral in igneous rocks (especially felsic types like granite), metamorphic rocks, and as detrital grains in sedimentary rocks due to its durability. It forms at high temperatures and pressures.
