red zircon

[Tropicmaster]

Does anybody have a non vendor pic of a red zircon ring? What exactly does double refraction mean? Would the stone be really sparkly, or does it mean something else? I am in search mode for my next project for MrsT and this stone really caught my eye-

 

[PrecisionGem]

Zircons, if cut down a certain axis will show a very strong double image of each facet. If you cut them down a different axis this effect will not be as strong. Some people like the effect, others don''t. It can give the stone a bit of a fuzzy look, sort of like looking at a stone when you are drunk.
Red zircons are often too dark, so be sure you can see it in person.

 

[neatfreak]

Date: 11/9/2008 9:04:43 PM
Author: PrecisionGem
Zircons, if cut down a certain axis will show a very strong double image of each facet. If you cut them down a different axis this effect will not be as strong. Some people like the effect, others don''t. It can give the stone a bit of a fuzzy look, sort of like looking at a stone when you are drunk.

Red zircons are often too dark, so be sure you can see it in person.

Very interesting...is there a way to tell from a vendor picture online which way it''s been cut?

 

[ma re]

If I may butt my way in (since I''m no expert, but know a thing or two), I''d just like to say that I think this fuzziness might not be as noticable in darker colors - like that of a red zircon. BTW, they are very sparkly, like nice red garnets, but it''s not the best ring stone due to some durability issues. They''re known not to have trouble chipping, I''m affraid. Of course, a jeweller might help with some ideas regarding that and protect the stone as much as possible.