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Tanzanite vs Jadeite jade

Jadeite jade is harder (Mohs 6.5–7) than Tanzanite (Mohs 6–7), so it resists scratching better; Tanzanite is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.

Tanzanite has the higher refractive index (1.691–1.700 vs 1.66), which a refractometer can use to separate them.

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PropertyTanzaniteJadeite jade
Species / materialZoisiteJadeite (pyroxene)
Mohs hardness6–76.5–7
Refractive index1.691–1.7001.66
Specific gravity3.353.34
Crystal systemOrthorhombicMonoclinic (aggregate)
Birefringence0.008–0.013Not usually measurable

Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.

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