Peridot vs Zircon
Peridot and Zircon have similar hardness (Mohs 6.5–7).
Zircon has the higher refractive index (1.925–1.984 vs 1.654–1.690), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Zircon is denser (SG 4.69 vs 3.34); a zircon of the same size weighs about 40% more.
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| Property | Peridot | Zircon |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Olivine (forsterite) | Zircon |
| Mohs hardness | 6.5–7 | 6.5–7.5 |
| Refractive index | 1.654–1.690 | 1.925–1.984 |
| Specific gravity | 3.34 | 4.69 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | Tetragonal |
| Birefringence | 0.035–0.038 | 0.059 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.