Zircon Clarity
Clarity refers to the tiny imperfections, or inclusions inside a gemstone. These can look like crystals, feathers, needles, fractures, or other natural features. If you’re curious about the different types, check out our
Complete Guide to Diamond Inclusions.
The good news? Faceted, gem-quality zircon is often eye-clean, meaning you won’t usually notice any inclusions without magnification. That doesn’t mean every inclusion is a deal-breaker. Small inclusions near the edge of a stone often disappear once it’s set, while large, centrally located, or surface-reaching inclusions are much easier to notice.
As always, the goal is a zircon that looks clean to your eye—not one that’s flawless under a microscope.
Zircon Cut
A zircon can have all the color and fire in the world, but if it’s poorly cut, you’ll never see it.
Unlike diamonds, there’s no universal cut grade for colored gemstones. Instead, what matters is how the stone looks. A well-cut zircon should feel alive, with flashes of color that catch your eye from across the room.
Rounds and ovals tend to show off zircon’s sparkle best, but cushions, pears, emerald cuts, marquises, radiants, and antique-inspired cuts can all be incredible in the right hands.
