Sapphire vs Tanzanite
Sapphire is harder (Mohs 9) than Tanzanite (Mohs 6–7), so it resists scratching better; Tanzanite is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Sapphire has the higher refractive index (1.762–1.770 vs 1.691–1.700), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Sapphire is denser (SG 4 vs 3.35); a sapphire of the same size weighs about 19% more.
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| Property | Sapphire | Tanzanite |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Corundum | Zoisite |
| Mohs hardness | 9 | 6–7 |
| Refractive index | 1.762–1.770 | 1.691–1.700 |
| Specific gravity | 4 | 3.35 |
| Crystal system | Trigonal | Orthorhombic |
| Birefringence | 0.008–0.010 | 0.008–0.013 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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