Call number:
D65 (12)
Classification:
Orthosilicates
Sorosilicates
Sorosilicates
Translated title:
Zircon
Place of origin:
Miask / Orenburg, ex U.S.S.R.
Depositional environment:
An accessory rock in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Description:
Zircon, zirconium orthosilicate, is found in most igneous rocks and some metamorphic rocks as small crystals or grains, mostly widely distributed and rarely more than 1% of the total mass of the rock. It is also found as alluvial grains in some sedimentary rocks due to its high hardness. Zircon has a high index of refraction and, where crystals are large enough, is often used as a gemstone.
Chemical formula:
ZrSiO4
Crystal system:
Tetragonal
Crystal schema:
Ditetragonal Dipyramidal
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