Zirconium is a transition metal element denoted by the atomic symbol, Zr. It has an atomic number of 40 and the average atomic weight of its isotopes is 91.224. It is found as a bluish amorphous powder or as a greyish-white metal. It has a melting point of about 3371°F (1855°C) and a boiling point of 7968.2°F (4409°C). Zirconium occurs to the extent of 0.023% in the earth's crust. It has also been found in moon rocks, in the sun, in meteorites, and in S-type stars.

Compounds of zirconium had been known for centuries. Zircon, for example, had been used as a gemstone in many cultures since before the birth of Christ. However, it was so similar to aluminum oxide that no one had suspected that it contained a new element. Another zirconium-containing mineral was jacinth, also known as hyacinth. This mineral is mentioned in the Book...