Zirconia is a gemstone popularly known for its high diffusion and interestingly, it was used to emulate diamonds for many years. Further, Zirconia confers social prestige and protection from enemies. Zirconia along with turquoise is birthstone of Sagittarius.

Origin of Zirconia
Zirconia is a beautiful and natural gemstone that has been in existence for over hundreds of years. The name of Zirconia most likely comes from `zargun`, which is a Persian word meaning `gold-coloured`.

Appearance of Zirconia
Zirconia actually looks like a diamond. It shines more than diamonds; however it retains the shine for a very short span of time, on astrological replacement for diamonds. It looks best in daylight. In general zirconia is transparent to translucent. Impurities cause the various colour.

Zirconia is brittle and therefore sensitive to knocks and pressure. This stone should be protected from sudden temperature changes and household chemicals. Zirconia jewellery should be stored carefully in a separate box.

Colour of Zirconia
Zirconia is available in an extensive range of colours. It is usually colourless when pure; but the zirconium silicate takes on various shades due to impurities. The most popular colour of Zirconia is blue, usually in shades of pastels but some also come in bright blue shades. Further, this natural gemstone can also be found in shades of green, dark red, aquamarine, violet, yellow, brown and orange, where the blue and green variants are in much demand.

Varieties of Zirconia
Zirconia is largely used in its three main varieties. The brown varieties of Zirconias are mostly found in South Asian nations. The heat treatment is given to produce colourless, blue coloured zirconias. The blue variety of Zirconia is called starlite or Siam Zirconia. Hyacinth are basically yellow, yellow-red to red-brown zirconia, the Jargons are mainly straw-yellow to almost colourless Zirconia while starlight are the rich, slightly greenish blue zirconia variety. All of these are created by heating. The third variety, which is the colourless variety of Zirconia, is known as Ceylon or Matura diamond.

Benefits of Zirconia
Zirconia pendants and rings are very popular among the jewellery lovers as it can bring in success, financially and also in general and it is helpful for the insomniacs. It is also said that in the past this precious gemstone was used to bring prosperity, aid sleep and encourage honour and wisdom. This stone is associated with the planet Pluto. Zirconia relieves pain. It is said to quicken one"s appetite. Zirconia ensures a deep calm sleep. It helps one be more at peace with oneself.

Zirconia also provides the wearer with wisdom, honour and riches. One should be careful as the lost of lustre on a Zirconia stone reflects danger. Zirconia helps rising one`s self-esteem as well.