Zircon is a widespread mineral that occurs in many different geological environments. It is a zirconium silicate mineral with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄ and is characterized by its high hardness and chemical resistance. Zircon can occur in a variety of colors, including colorless, brown, green, red and yellow. When irradiated with UV light, zircon often shows a yellow fluorescence, which is usually caused by the presence of trace elements such as uranium, thorium or rare earths (e. g. europium) in the zircon's crystal lattice. These elements partially replace the zirconium in the crystal structure and lead to electron transitions that emit light in the visible range. The intensity and color nuance of the fluorescence can vary greatly and depends on the concentration and type of trace elements contained.

Vishnevogorsk, located in the southern Ural Mountains in Russia, is a well-known site for various minerals, including zircon. The yellow fluorescence of zircon from Vishnevogorsk is particularly interesting, as it is more intense and consistent compared to zircon from other regions.