Sapphire vs Tourmaline
Sapphire is harder (Mohs 9) than Tourmaline (Mohs 7–7.5), so it resists scratching better.
Sapphire has the higher refractive index (1.762–1.770 vs 1.624–1.644), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Sapphire is denser (SG 4 vs 3.06); a sapphire of the same size weighs about 31% more.
Advertisement
Ad space (in-content)
| Property | Sapphire | Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Corundum | Tourmaline |
| Mohs hardness | 9 | 7–7.5 |
| Refractive index | 1.762–1.770 | 1.624–1.644 |
| Specific gravity | 4 | 3.06 |
| Crystal system | Trigonal | Trigonal |
| Birefringence | 0.008–0.010 | 0.014–0.021 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
Test it yourself
More comparisons
Diamond vs SapphireDiamond vs TourmalineRuby vs SapphireRuby vs TourmalineSapphire vs EmeraldSapphire vs AquamarineSapphire vs MorganiteSapphire vs AlexandriteSapphire vs SpinelSapphire vs TopazSapphire vs Garnet (almandine)Sapphire vs PeridotSapphire vs AmethystSapphire vs CitrineSapphire vs TanzaniteSapphire vs Zircon