Diamond vs Tourmaline
Diamond is harder (Mohs 10) than Tourmaline (Mohs 7–7.5), so it resists scratching better.
Diamond has the higher refractive index (2.417 vs 1.624–1.644), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Diamond is denser (SG 3.52 vs 3.06); a diamond of the same size weighs about 15% more.
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| Property | Diamond | Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Diamond (carbon) | Tourmaline |
| Mohs hardness | 10 | 7–7.5 |
| Refractive index | 2.417 | 1.624–1.644 |
| Specific gravity | 3.52 | 3.06 |
| Crystal system | Cubic | Trigonal |
| Birefringence | None (isotropic) | 0.014–0.021 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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