Spinel vs Cubic zirconia
Spinel and Cubic zirconia have similar hardness (Mohs 8).
Cubic zirconia has the higher refractive index (2.15–2.18 vs 1.718), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Cubic zirconia is denser (SG 5.8 vs 3.6); a cubic zirconia of the same size weighs about 61% more.
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| Property | Spinel | Cubic zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Spinel | Synthetic zirconium oxide |
| Mohs hardness | 8 | 8–8.5 |
| Refractive index | 1.718 | 2.15–2.18 |
| Specific gravity | 3.6 | 5.8 |
| Crystal system | Cubic | Cubic |
| Birefringence | None (isotropic) | None (isotropic) |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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