Moissanite vs Cubic zirconia
Moissanite is harder (Mohs 9.25) than Cubic zirconia (Mohs 8–8.5), so it resists scratching better.
Moissanite has the higher refractive index (2.648–2.691 vs 2.15–2.18), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Cubic zirconia is denser (SG 5.8 vs 3.22); a cubic zirconia of the same size weighs about 80% more.
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| Property | Moissanite | Cubic zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Silicon carbide | Synthetic zirconium oxide |
| Mohs hardness | 9.25 | 8–8.5 |
| Refractive index | 2.648–2.691 | 2.15–2.18 |
| Specific gravity | 3.22 | 5.8 |
| Crystal system | Hexagonal | Cubic |
| Birefringence | 0.043 | None (isotropic) |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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