Zircon (Noun)
Meaning
A common mineral occurring in small crystals; chief source of zirconium; used as a refractory when opaque and as a gem when transparent.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The geologist carefully extracted a small sample of zircon from the rock face, hoping to study its properties further.
- In its transparent form, zircon is used as a less expensive alternative to diamond in high-end jewelry.
- Zircon is a highly durable mineral, which is why it's often used as a refractory in high-temperature applications.
- After years of searching, the miner finally discovered a rich vein of zircon running through the mountain.
- When cut and polished, zircon's range of colors, from colorless to orange to blue, make it a popular choice among gem collectors.