Amethyst vs Moissanite
Moissanite is harder (Mohs 9.25) than Amethyst (Mohs 7), so it resists scratching better.
Moissanite has the higher refractive index (2.648–2.691 vs 1.544–1.553), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Moissanite is denser (SG 3.22 vs 2.65); a moissanite of the same size weighs about 22% more.
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| Property | Amethyst | Moissanite |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Quartz | Silicon carbide |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 9.25 |
| Refractive index | 1.544–1.553 | 2.648–2.691 |
| Specific gravity | 2.65 | 3.22 |
| Crystal system | Trigonal | Hexagonal |
| Birefringence | 0.009 | 0.043 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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