1.22 Ct. Orange Zircon from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This 1.22 carat cushion shaped orange zircon is presented by The Natural Gemstone Company with precise measurements of 6.28 x 6.13 x 5.78 mm, a mixed brilliant cut, and an excellent polish. The cushion outline is gently squared with softened corners, and the mixed brilliant faceting combines a faceted brilliant crown with a carefully arranged pavilion that enhances both brilliance and color return. The stone is transparent, with an intense orange color intensity that reads as saturated and evenly distributed across the table. There is no enhancement applied to this specimen, and its origin is Ceylon Sri Lanka, a provenance that is historically associated with high quality zircons. The gem’s finish demonstrates lapidary control in facet alignment and symmetry, producing crisp facet junctions and a lively interplay of flashes under direct and diffused lighting.

Weight and proportion are primary determinants of value and rarity for zircons, and this 1.22 carat example occupies a distinctive category among orange zircons. Carat weight in zircon does not translate to visual size in the same way as lower density gems, because zircon has a relatively high density which concentrates weight into a compact volume. A 1.22 carat zircon at these dimensions therefore represents a robust mass of material, and that mass contributes directly to the stone’s market value. Heavier stones with intense, untreated color are scarce, because color zoning and heat related treatments often reduce available supply. In this piece the combination of 1.22 carat weight with intense natural orange hue increases rarity compared with similarly sized or shaped zircons that display paler tone or require enhancement to achieve saturation.

From a cutting and clarity perspective the mixed brilliant cut has been executed to balance dispersion and scintillation, allowing the inherent dispersion and high refractive character of zircon to translate into lively color flashes without sacrificing overall clarity. The clarity grade is very slightly included evaluated at eye level, indicating minute internal features that do not materially disrupt light transmission when viewed unaided. These inclusions are small and well positioned, and they are effectively masked by the gem’s facet geometry and depth, which together optimize light return and prevent obvious windowing. The excellent polish elevates facet contrast and maximizes contrast scintillation, so that the orange tone reads as consistent and vivid across the crown and pavilion. The absence of any enhancement is crucial for collectors and connoisseurs, because untreated Ceylon zircons of this weight and saturation are sought for their natural optical properties and for the confidence they bring to grading and long term value retention.

For jewelry application and investment the physical and optical attributes of this gem make it highly versatile. The cushion outline is conducive to bezel or prong settings that protect the softened corners while allowing the table to present maximum color. The substantial pavilion depth indicated by the stone’s dimensions provides a concentrated heart of color when set, producing an apparent increase in saturation under typical lighting conditions. From a valuation standpoint the 1.22 carat weight, combined with intense natural color, very slightly included clarity at eye level, excellent polish, and Ceylon origin, positions this zircon in a premium segment of the market. The Natural Gemstone Company recommends secure mounting practices that preserve the stone’s proportions and optical performance, and our team is available to advise on cut proportionality, mounting profiles, and design choices that will showcase the gem’s brilliance and color while protecting its long term integrity.