One intriguing fact about zircon is its exceptional age. Zircon crystals found in nature can be incredibly old, with some specimens dating back billions of years. In fact, zircon is often used in geology for radiometric dating due to its ability to incorporate uranium and thorium atoms into its crystal lattice over time. By measuring the radioactive decay of these elements within zircon crystals, scientists can determine the age of the rock formations in which they are found. This makes zircon an invaluable tool for understanding the Earth's geological history and the processes that have shaped its surface over millions and even billions of years.
