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Natural AlexandriteVSZultanite (Color-Change Diaspore)
Side-by-side comparison of physical properties, fluorescence, and crystal system — to identify by observation.
- ◎ is higher in Natural Alexandrite, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Natural Alexandrite, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Natural Alexandrite, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Zultanite (Color-Change Diaspore), giving a numerical distinguishing point.
Note: properties whose numeric ranges do not overlap are auto-extracted. Both are measurable with a refractometer or heavy-liquid bath.
| Property | A: Natural Alexandrite | B: Zultanite (Color-Change Diaspore) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refractive index (RI) | 1.745–1.755 | 1.700–1.722 | A higher |
| Specific gravity (SG) | 3.71–3.75 | 3.34–3.39 | A higher |
| Mohs hardness | 8.5 | 6.5–7.0 | A higher |
| Birefringence | 0.009 | 0.018 | B higher |
| Dispersion | — | — | — |
| Property | A: Natural Alexandrite | B: Zultanite (Color-Change Diaspore) |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal system | 斜方晶系 | 斜方晶系 |
| Pleochroism | 強(緑・赤紫・黄橙) | 強(緑・赤紫・黄) |
| Chelsea filter | red | — |
| UV (long-wave) | weak (red) | — |
| UV (short-wave) | weak (red) | inert |
◆Alexandrite has RI 1.74–1.76 and SG 3.71 with a stronger emerald-to-ruby color change; Zultanite has RI 1.70–1.72 and SG 3.36 with a softer kiwi-to-rose change and visible perfect .
Distinguishing tools
Tools that decide between Natural Alexandrite and Zultanite (Color-Change Diaspore) in practice.
- High-output penlightDETAILS →
Switch between daylight and warm incandescent light to verify color change
- Chelsea filterDETAILS →
Quick chrome-content screen — chromium-bearing stones glow red through the filter
- Handheld spectroscopeDETAILS →
Absorption-line pattern identifies the chromophore (Cr, Fe, or Co)
Note: this page is auto-generated from published GIA / CGL reference values. Individual stones, treatments, and synthetics may fall outside these ranges. For a definitive identification, consult an accredited gem laboratory.

