Tanzanite vs Cubic zirconia
Cubic zirconia is harder (Mohs 8–8.5) than Tanzanite (Mohs 6–7), so it resists scratching better; Tanzanite is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Cubic zirconia has the higher refractive index (2.15–2.18 vs 1.691–1.700), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Cubic zirconia is denser (SG 5.8 vs 3.35); a cubic zirconia of the same size weighs about 73% more.
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| Property | Tanzanite | Cubic zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Zoisite | Synthetic zirconium oxide |
| Mohs hardness | 6–7 | 8–8.5 |
| Refractive index | 1.691–1.700 | 2.15–2.18 |
| Specific gravity | 3.35 | 5.8 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | Cubic |
| Birefringence | 0.008–0.013 | None (isotropic) |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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