Garnet (almandine) vs Cubic zirconia
Cubic zirconia is harder (Mohs 8–8.5) than Garnet (almandine) (Mohs 7–7.5), so it resists scratching better.
Cubic zirconia has the higher refractive index (2.15–2.18 vs 1.790), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Cubic zirconia is denser (SG 5.8 vs 4.05); a cubic zirconia of the same size weighs about 43% more.
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| Property | Garnet (almandine) | Cubic zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Garnet | Synthetic zirconium oxide |
| Mohs hardness | 7–7.5 | 8–8.5 |
| Refractive index | 1.790 | 2.15–2.18 |
| Specific gravity | 4.05 | 5.8 |
| Crystal system | Cubic | Cubic |
| Birefringence | None (isotropic) | None (isotropic) |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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