Tanzanite vs Moissanite
Moissanite is harder (Mohs 9.25) than Tanzanite (Mohs 6–7), so it resists scratching better; Tanzanite is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Moissanite has the higher refractive index (2.648–2.691 vs 1.691–1.700), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Tanzanite is denser (SG 3.35 vs 3.22); a tanzanite of the same size weighs about 4% more.
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| Property | Tanzanite | Moissanite |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Zoisite | Silicon carbide |
| Mohs hardness | 6–7 | 9.25 |
| Refractive index | 1.691–1.700 | 2.648–2.691 |
| Specific gravity | 3.35 | 3.22 |
| Crystal system | Orthorhombic | Hexagonal |
| Birefringence | 0.008–0.013 | 0.043 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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