13.24 Ct. Zircon from Cambodia

One beautiful transparent 13.24 carat cushion shape greenish blue zircon with dimensions 11.13 x 10.17 x 10.56 mm, mixed brilliant cut, clarity grade eye clean as evaluated at eye level, medium intense color intensity, excellent polish, enhancement heat treated, origin Cambodia. This description encapsulates the technical specifications that matter most to an educated buyer, while also situating the gem within an established trade context at The Natural Gemstone Company. A gem of this size and quality is immediately noteworthy, because zircon of more than ten carats, possessing both transparency and an eye clean clarity, is uncommon. The cushion outline provides a generous face up presence, while the mixed brilliant cutting style has been employed to balance weight retention with optimal light return. The polished finish is excellent, which means facets meet crisply and surface finish is free from abrasions that would otherwise diminish brilliance. Taken together, these attributes make the stone a compelling candidate for a signature ring or a museum quality collection piece.

From a grading and gemological perspective, several features elevate the desirability of this parcel. Clarity described as eye clean indicates that inclusions are not visible to the unaided eye at normal viewing distances, which is a primary threshold of quality for fine colored gems. Because zircon has a relatively high refractive index and significant dispersion for a nondiamond gem, clarity and a high quality polish are essential to reveal its internal fire and scintillation. The mixed brilliant cut is purposeful, combining brilliant facets on the crown and pavilion with complementary faceting that preserves weight while stimulating lively light performance. The medium intense greenish blue hue of this example is particularly attractive, because it occupies a sweet spot between muted tones and overly saturated stones that can appear inky under certain lighting. Many zircons also display pleochroism, exhibiting slightly different hues when viewed from different angles, and this dynamic color shift can enhance the visual complexity of the stone when set in jewelry. The cushion shape further softens the presentation, making the piece versatile for both contemporary and vintage inspired settings.

Heat treatment is a common and accepted enhancement for zircons, and honest disclosure of treatment is a critical element of responsible trade practice. In this instance the stone has been heat treated to stabilize and intensify its greenish blue color, a process that can also reduce brown or gray overtones that occur in some natural zircons. The treatment is permanent under normal wear conditions, and it is widely recognized in the market as the standard method to achieve the most desirable hues in gem quality zircon. Origin information contributes materially to the overall valuation of colored gemstones. Cambodian zircons have gained prominence for their attractive blue and greenish blue material, and stones from this provenance are prized for a distinctive combination of tone and clarity. Provenance can carry a premium because geological conditions, such as the mineralogy of the host sediments and the thermal history of the deposit, influence crystal chemistry in ways that create predictable and collectible color profiles. For the buyer who values transparency and traceability, the confirmed origin of Cambodia is an important attribute that adds both aesthetic and connoisseurship value.

For the educated buyer considering this 13.24 carat cushion greenish blue zircon, the practical appeal is multifaceted. From an investment viewpoint, large, eye clean zircons with excellent polish and attractive color intensity are comparatively rare when contrasted with more common sizes and lower clarity grades. From a design viewpoint, the mixed brilliant cut and cushion form offer an opportunity for a setting that maximizes the gem visual impact, while also protecting the girdle and pavilion in daily wear. When planning a commission, metal choice and setting style should take into account the stone hardness and specific gravity, and a secure bezel or prong setting designed by an experienced jeweler will ensure the gem is both showcased and protected. At The Natural Gemstone Company we take care to disclose enhancement, provide accurate dimension and weight data, and offer photographic documentation so that buyers can evaluate the stone with confidence. For clients who desire further assurance, we can assist in arranging independent gemological reports from recognized laboratories, and we are available to advise on mounting, care, and insurance considerations. This Cambodian zircon represents a rare combination of scale, clarity, and color, making it a valuable addition to a serious collection or a memorable centerpiece for a custom piece of fine jewelry.