Zircon is an important accessory mineral because it incorporates U and Th while excluding Pb, making it a key mineral for U–Pb geochronology and preserving records of crystallisation and geological processes. Cathodoluminescence (CL) imaging is especially valuable for zircon as it reveals internal zoning, growth structures and compositional variations that are not visible in conventional SEM imaging using backscattered or secondary electrons. These luminescence patterns provide insights into crystallisation history, trace element distribution, and post-growth processes such as metamorphism, recrystallisation or fluid interaction. High-resolution CL imaging is performed in an SEM equipped with the Deben Centaurus CL Detector. 

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Cathodoluminescence (CL) image of zircon grains showing distinct internal zoning.