Advertisement
Ad space (header)

Tanzanite vs Pearl

Tanzanite is harder (Mohs 6–7) than Pearl (Mohs 2.5–4.5), so it resists scratching better; Pearl is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.

Tanzanite has the higher refractive index (1.691–1.700 vs 1.53–1.69), which a refractometer can use to separate them.

Tanzanite is denser (SG 3.35 vs 2.71); a tanzanite of the same size weighs about 24% more.

Advertisement
Ad space (in-content)
PropertyTanzanitePearl
Species / materialZoisiteOrganic (nacre)
Mohs hardness6–72.5–4.5
Refractive index1.691–1.7001.53–1.69
Specific gravity3.352.71
Crystal systemOrthorhombicOrganic
Birefringence0.008–0.013Not applicable

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

Test it yourself

More comparisons

Advertisement
Ad space (footer)