Alexandrite vs Jadeite jade
Alexandrite is harder (Mohs 8.5) than Jadeite jade (Mohs 6.5–7), so it resists scratching better; Jadeite jade is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Alexandrite has the higher refractive index (1.746–1.755 vs 1.66), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Alexandrite is denser (SG 3.73 vs 3.34); a alexandrite of the same size weighs about 12% more.
Advertisement
Ad space (in-content)
| Property | Alexandrite | Jadeite jade |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Chrysoberyl | Jadeite (pyroxene) |
| Mohs hardness | 8.5 | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive index | 1.746–1.755 | 1.66 |
| Specific gravity | 3.73 | 3.34 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | Monoclinic (aggregate) |
| Birefringence | 0.008–0.010 | Not usually measurable |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
Test it yourself
More comparisons
Diamond vs AlexandriteDiamond vs Jadeite jadeRuby vs AlexandriteRuby vs Jadeite jadeSapphire vs AlexandriteSapphire vs Jadeite jadeEmerald vs AlexandriteEmerald vs Jadeite jadeAquamarine vs AlexandriteAquamarine vs Jadeite jadeMorganite vs AlexandriteMorganite vs Jadeite jadeAlexandrite vs SpinelAlexandrite vs TopazAlexandrite vs TourmalineAlexandrite vs Garnet (almandine)