Emerald vs Spinel
Spinel is harder (Mohs 8) than Emerald (Mohs 7.5–8), so it resists scratching better.
Spinel has the higher refractive index (1.718 vs 1.577–1.583), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Spinel is denser (SG 3.6 vs 2.72); a spinel of the same size weighs about 32% more.
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| Property | Emerald | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Beryl | Spinel |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5–8 | 8 |
| Refractive index | 1.577–1.583 | 1.718 |
| Specific gravity | 2.72 | 3.6 |
| Crystal system | Hexagonal | Cubic |
| Birefringence | 0.005–0.009 | None (isotropic) |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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