Zircon vs Moissanite
Moissanite is harder (Mohs 9.25) than Zircon (Mohs 6.5–7.5), so it resists scratching better; Zircon is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Moissanite has the higher refractive index (2.648–2.691 vs 1.925–1.984), which a refractometer (over-the-limit reading) can use to separate them.
Zircon is denser (SG 4.69 vs 3.22); a zircon of the same size weighs about 46% more.
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| Property | Zircon | Moissanite |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Zircon | Silicon carbide |
| Mohs hardness | 6.5–7.5 | 9.25 |
| Refractive index | 1.925–1.984 | 2.648–2.691 |
| Specific gravity | 4.69 | 3.22 |
| Crystal system | Tetragonal | Hexagonal |
| Birefringence | 0.059 | 0.043 |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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