zircon

Zircon is a mineral composed of zirconium silicate, commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Geologists value it because it often contains uranium, which allows scientists to determine its age through radioactive decay—a key method for dating Earth's oldest rocks. Zircon is highly resilient and resistant to weathering, making it an important mineral for understanding Earth's geological history. Its crystal structure often preserves detailed information about the conditions under which it formed, providing insights into Earth's early environment and the processes that shaped our planet.