Emerald vs Pearl
Emerald is harder (Mohs 7.5–8) than Pearl (Mohs 2.5–4.5), so it resists scratching better; Pearl is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Pearl has the higher refractive index (1.53–1.69 vs 1.577–1.583), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
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| Property | Emerald | Pearl |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Beryl | Organic (nacre) |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5–8 | 2.5–4.5 |
| Refractive index | 1.577–1.583 | 1.53–1.69 |
| Specific gravity | 2.72 | 2.71 |
| Crystal system | Hexagonal | Organic |
| Birefringence | 0.005–0.009 | Not applicable |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.