Ruby vs Jadeite jade
Ruby is harder (Mohs 9) than Jadeite jade (Mohs 6.5–7), so it resists scratching better; Jadeite jade is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Ruby has the higher refractive index (1.762–1.770 vs 1.66), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Ruby is denser (SG 4 vs 3.34); a ruby of the same size weighs about 20% more.
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| Property | Ruby | Jadeite jade |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Corundum | Jadeite (pyroxene) |
| Mohs hardness | 9 | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive index | 1.762–1.770 | 1.66 |
| Specific gravity | 4 | 3.34 |
| Crystal system | Trigonal | Monoclinic (aggregate) |
| Birefringence | 0.008–0.010 | Not usually measurable |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.