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Garnet (almandine) vs Peridot

Garnet (almandine) is harder (Mohs 7–7.5) than Peridot (Mohs 6.5–7), so it resists scratching better; Peridot is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.

Garnet (almandine) has the higher refractive index (1.790 vs 1.654–1.690), which a refractometer can use to separate them.

Garnet (almandine) is denser (SG 4.05 vs 3.34); a garnet (almandine) of the same size weighs about 21% more.

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PropertyGarnet (almandine)Peridot
Species / materialGarnetOlivine (forsterite)
Mohs hardness7–7.56.5–7
Refractive index1.7901.654–1.690
Specific gravity4.053.34
Crystal systemCubicOrthorhombic
BirefringenceNone (isotropic)0.035–0.038

Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.

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