[1] Zircon consists of 8-coordinated Zr4+ centers linked to tetrahedral orthosilicate SiO44- sites.

Given its highly crosslinked structure, the material is hard, and hence prized as gemstone and abrasive.

[2] It can also be synthesized by fusion of SiO2 and ZrO2 in an arc furnace, or by reacting a zirconium salt with sodium silicate in an aqueous solution.

The major applications exploit its refractory nature and resistance to corrosion by alkali materials.

[4] Zirconium silicate is also used as foundry sands due to its high thermal stability.

[5] t is also the primary source of zirconium, which is used in various applications, including in nuclear reactors, due to its high resistance to corrosion and low neutron absorption.