Spinel vs Moissanite
Moissanite is harder (Mohs 9.25) than Spinel (Mohs 8), so it resists scratching better.
Moissanite has the higher refractive index (2.648–2.691 vs 1.718), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Spinel is denser (SG 3.6 vs 3.22); a spinel of the same size weighs about 12% more.
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| Property | Spinel | Moissanite |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Spinel | Silicon carbide |
| Mohs hardness | 8 | 9.25 |
| Refractive index | 1.718 | 2.648–2.691 |
| Specific gravity | 3.6 | 3.22 |
| Crystal system | Cubic | Hexagonal |
| Birefringence | None (isotropic) | 0.043 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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