Two samples of crystal bars of pure zirconium on a white glass plate showing different surface textures, made by the crystal bar process, and a 1 cm3 cube of it for comparison. Zirconium is a lustrous, grey-white, strong transition metal that resembles titanium. It is mainly used as a refractory and opacifier, although it is used in small amounts as an alloying agent for its strong resistance to corrosion.Photo: Alchemist-hp