Alexandrite vs Moissanite
Moissanite is harder (Mohs 9.25) than Alexandrite (Mohs 8.5), so it resists scratching better.
Moissanite has the higher refractive index (2.648–2.691 vs 1.746–1.755), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Alexandrite is denser (SG 3.73 vs 3.22); a alexandrite of the same size weighs about 16% more.
Advertisement
Ad space (in-content)
| Property | Alexandrite | Moissanite |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Chrysoberyl | Silicon carbide |
| Mohs hardness | 8.5 | 9.25 |
| Refractive index | 1.746–1.755 | 2.648–2.691 |
| Specific gravity | 3.73 | 3.22 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | Hexagonal |
| Birefringence | 0.008–0.010 | 0.043 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
Test it yourself
More comparisons
Diamond vs AlexandriteDiamond vs MoissaniteRuby vs AlexandriteRuby vs MoissaniteSapphire vs AlexandriteSapphire vs MoissaniteEmerald vs AlexandriteEmerald vs MoissaniteAquamarine vs AlexandriteAquamarine vs MoissaniteMorganite vs AlexandriteMorganite vs MoissaniteAlexandrite vs SpinelAlexandrite vs TopazAlexandrite vs TourmalineAlexandrite vs Garnet (almandine)