Finding from geochemists at the University of Wisconsin Madison prove Earth's fiery ball emerged sooner from the magma ocean than previously thought.
It is estimated the Earth formed about 4.5 billion years ago. Little is known about the early years, or when the planet became cool enough for the crust to congeal from a sea of molten rock and for water to form. 600 million years was thought to be needed for the cooling period.
This took place about 160 million years after the creation of the Earth and other planets in our solar system—much earlier than previously believed. The study at the University of Wisconsin Madison used a new technique most of us wouldn't understand, so I won't include it.
Due to its toughness, zircon can withstand billions of years of erosion. The crystals remain chemically intact and contain a wealth of geological information. Younger rocks and even sand contain minute quantities.
A stone of great purity and quiet vibrations, many people believe Zircon enables one to be at peace with oneself. (Not to be mistaken for the laboratory-made cubic zirconia which would give out as much peace as a steel knife.) I love real gemstones. A rectangular, Victorian cut-glass bowl holds an assortment on my mantelpiece, emitting vibrations into the main room. I couldn't attest to their benefits, but I love to look at these beautiful stones which formed early in Earth's creation.