Garnet (almandine) vs Opal
Garnet (almandine) is harder (Mohs 7–7.5) than Opal (Mohs 5.5–6.5), so it resists scratching better; Opal is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Garnet (almandine) has the higher refractive index (1.790 vs 1.450), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Garnet (almandine) is denser (SG 4.05 vs 2.15); a garnet (almandine) of the same size weighs about 88% more.
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| Property | Garnet (almandine) | Opal |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Garnet | Opal (hydrated silica) |
| Mohs hardness | 7–7.5 | 5.5–6.5 |
| Refractive index | 1.790 | 1.450 |
| Specific gravity | 4.05 | 2.15 |
| Crystal system | Cubic | Amorphous |
| Birefringence | None (isotropic) | None |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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