3.37 Ct. Zircon from Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

This specimen is a transparent purplish red zircon, weighing 3.37 carats, presented in an oval shape with exact dimensions of 9.50 by 7.60 by 5.00 millimeters. The stone has been faceted in a mixed brilliant cut, combining facets intended to emphasize both scintillation and depth of color. Clarity is graded very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, and the surface displays an excellent polish that enhances light return across the crown and pavilion. Color intensity is described as dark, which contributes to a richly saturated purplish red appearance that remains lively under direct light. There has been no enhancement applied to the material, and origin is documented as Ceylon, Sri Lanka. These specifications reflect the objective measurements and observations recorded during our internal evaluation, and they form the core information for understanding this gems physical and optical character.

The journey of this zircon began in the gem bearing gravels of Ceylon, Sri Lanka, a region with a long and well documented history of zircon occurrence and gem commerce. Extraction in the immediate locality is typically a combination of small scale alluvial methods and more structured artisanal operations, aimed at recovering individual heavy mineral grains from ancient river terraces and secondary deposits. At the point of recovery, rough pieces are hand sorted by experienced field sorters who assess initial color, size, and clarity, and then segregate material destined for faceting. This particular rough was selected for its combination of color saturation and clarity, attributes that are less common in larger stones. From the mine site the piece moved through a sequence of controlled handling stages, including basic cleaning, preliminary trimming, and secure transport to a certified cutting facility. Chain of custody was maintained to preserve provenance information, and each handling step was logged to ensure that origin, weight, and rough condition were recorded prior to any lapidary intervention.

At the cutting bench, the decision to execute a mixed brilliant cut was guided by the need to balance color depth with light performance. The cutter oriented the pavilion and crown facets to maximize the dispersion and brilliance that zircons are known for, while preserving the purplish red hue and preventing windowing that can occur when a deep colored stone is cut too shallowly. Careful attention was paid to facet junctions and symmetry, which supports the excellent polish observed on the finished gem. During the cutting sequence magnification inspections were performed to evaluate inclusions and to confirm the clarity grade of very slightly included at eye level. The result is a transparent gem that retains a measurable degree of brilliance and fire, with internal features that do not materially affect the visual performance when viewed unaided. No heat or chemical treatments were applied at any stage, and the description of no enhancement is supported by our testing and the absence of indicators commonly associated with enhancement techniques. Final measurements and weight were confirmed after cutting, and the dimensions of 9.50 by 7.60 by 5.00 millimeters and the weight of 3.37 carats were recorded as part of the finished goods documentation.

The final phase of the journey moved the polished gem into inspection, photography, and market presentation under the quality standards of The Natural Gemstone Company. Each example undergoes a structured quality check that includes visual assessment, measurement verification, and comparison against recorded origin documentation. High resolution imaging is produced to accurately represent the stone, and detailed descriptive records are created to accompany the gem when offered to clients. In the market context this purplish red zircon is suitable for a variety of fine jewelry settings where a balance of color depth and optical performance is desired, including solitaire settings, halo configurations that add contrast, and bespoke pieces that capitalize on the stone as the focal element. The clarity grade of very slightly included at eye level indicates that the gem will display without visible inclusions in normal use, while the excellent polish contributes to durable surface performance and ease of cleaning. Care for the stone follows standard guidance for natural zircons, with recommendations for routine gentle cleaning using a soft brush, mild detergent, and lukewarm water, and avoidance of harsh chemicals and ultrasonic treatments if there is any concern about mounted settings.

The account above presents the factual progression of this gemstone from its origin in Ceylon, Sri Lanka to its readiness for incorporation into fine jewelry, and it emphasizes the measurable attributes that inform valuation and use. The stone is a 3.37 carat oval purplish red zircon, with dimensions of 9.50 by 7.60 by 5.00 millimeters, a mixed brilliant cut, clarity graded very slightly included at eye level, dark color intensity, excellent polish, and no enhancement. The documentation of origin and the controlled handling steps executed by experienced field and lapidary professionals support the provenance and integrity of the piece. For clients and designers seeking a natural, untreated zircon with pronounced color and refined cutting, this gem is presented and authenticated by The Natural Gemstone Company, accompanied by our standard descriptive documentation and imagery to aid in informed selection and setting.