2.40 Ct. Zircon from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This 2.40 carat pear shape brown zircon from Ceylon is a fine example of natural gem quality and careful craftsmanship. The stone measures 9.45 x 6.49 x 4.67 millimeters, and it has a mixed brilliant cut that combines a faceting scheme optimized for both scintillation and dispersion. Its clarity grade is very slightly included evaluated at eye level, which means that any inclusions are minor and do not detract from the overall visual performance when viewed without magnification. The color intensity is described as dark, and while darker tones in zircon can moderate some of the stone's fire, they also create a warm, sophisticated appearance that is desirable for those seeking a distinctive brown hue. The polish is excellent, and the stone is entirely natural with no enhancement, a fact that elevates its desirability among collectors and connoisseurs who prioritize untreated gems. At The Natural Gemstone Company we document origin, and this piece comes from Sri Lanka, historically referred to as Ceylon, a source that is renowned for producing clean, well crystallized zircons.

From a gemological perspective this brown zircon combines several properties that explain its visual appeal and its standing among other gems. Zircon has a high refractive index in the range typical for natural zircons which gives it pronounced brilliance, and it exhibits strong dispersion which contributes to colorful fire that is more pronounced than in many stones such as sapphire or topaz. Compared to sapphire, which has a refractive index near 1.76 and relatively low dispersion, this zircon returns more white light and flashes of spectral color under the same faceting. Compared to natural diamond, zircon has lower refractive index and slightly lower dispersion than diamond, so it will not match a high quality diamond for sheer brilliance and fire, but it does offer a lively and different optical character that appeals to buyers who want distinctiveness rather than imitation. When placed side by side with other members of the zircon category, the mixed brilliant cut of this pear shape is particularly effective at balancing the stone s inherent birefringence and strong luster, producing crisp facet outlines and a pleasing mix of scintillation and flash. The dark color intensity reduces the visible fire somewhat, but the excellent polish and quality of cutting preserve maximum light return while creating a warm and complex visual field that is attractive in both daylight and artificial lighting.

For an educated buyer the value proposition of this particular specimen is clear. The weight of 2.40 carats in a well proportioned pear shape makes it suitable for a variety of jewelry designs, and the dimensions provide presence without being oversized. The very slightly included clarity means that the gem will photograph well and sit confidently in a prong or bezel setting without the need for internal alteration. The lack of enhancement is significant in the market for zircons because heat treatment is a common method used to alter color and improve transparency, and unenhanced stones from Ceylon command a premium for their natural state and documented provenance. Wear considerations are straightforward, because while zircon has good hardness it can be brittle and should be set with protective design features if intended for everyday use. The higher specific gravity of zircon also gives it a satisfying heft that feels substantial for its size. At The Natural Gemstone Company we prioritize full disclosure and traceability, and this brown Ceylon zircon is offered with detailed grading information and origin notes so that buyers have confidence in their acquisition. If you are considering this gem for a bespoke commission or as a collectible piece for an informed collection, it represents a rare combination of natural color, excellent polish, and responsible sourcing that educated buyers will appreciate.