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Jacinth
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The Jacinth is a red variety of zircon. The name derives from hyacinthos, the Greek word for hyacinth. This association with the plant was due to the similarity of the flower’s color to that of the gem.
The list of folkloric properties associated with the stone is short, but varied. First the jacinth is said to ward off pestilence, and would change color when someone in the vicinity has the plague. Second the gem was supposed to prevent infection and stop bleeding. Third it is said to have the power to unravel sorceries and enchantments. This was usually accomplished by tracing various symbols with the stone. It was also it is said to grant sleep, which is a peculiar trait not often associated with precious stones, especially red ones. And finally, it was supposed to grant protection from lightning.
Many of these virtues are associations with the jacinth’s color and high refractive index. The ability to predict and protect from plague may be linked with the stones ability to ward off fever, a trait shared with other red fiery stones. Such gems are also often believed to stop bleeding, in this case an infection is red and inflamed so the property preventing the worsening of a wound is very likely an extension of that belief. As far as changing color, a zircon will appear to change color or intensity depending on the light source. So open air environments during the day would make the stone appear more lustrous then candle light in an enclosed and darkened room. A person in a sick room would very likely view the stone as loosing luster, both due to light play and personal perception brought on by the social situation.
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Colors
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Red to yellow
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Locations
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Australia, Africia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam
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Compisition
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ZrSiO4, Zirconium silicate
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Hardness
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7.5
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