Tourmaline vs Jadeite jade
Tourmaline is harder (Mohs 7–7.5) than Jadeite jade (Mohs 6.5–7), so it resists scratching better; Jadeite jade is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Jadeite jade has the higher refractive index (1.66 vs 1.624–1.644), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Jadeite jade is denser (SG 3.34 vs 3.06); a jadeite jade of the same size weighs about 9% more.
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| Property | Tourmaline | Jadeite jade |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Tourmaline | Jadeite (pyroxene) |
| Mohs hardness | 7–7.5 | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive index | 1.624–1.644 | 1.66 |
| Specific gravity | 3.06 | 3.34 |
| Crystal system | Trigonal | Monoclinic (aggregate) |
| Birefringence | 0.014–0.021 | Not usually measurable |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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