COMPARE GUIDE
AquamarineVSParaíba Tourmaline
Side-by-side comparison of physical properties, fluorescence, and crystal system — to identify by observation.
Decisive distinctionsDECISIVE
- ◎ is higher in Paraíba Tourmaline, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Paraíba Tourmaline, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Paraíba Tourmaline, 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.
Physical propertiesPROPERTIES
| Property | A: Aquamarine | B: Paraíba Tourmaline | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refractive index (RI) | 1.567–1.583 | 1.620–1.640 | B higher |
| Specific gravity (SG) | 2.66–2.80 | 3.06–3.10 | B higher |
| Mohs hardness | 7.5–8.0 | 7.0–7.5 | Overlap |
| Birefringence | 0.006 | 0.018 | B higher |
| Dispersion | — | — | — |
Optics & fluorescenceOPTICS & UV
| Property | A: Aquamarine | B: Paraíba Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal system | 六方晶系 | 三方晶系 |
| Pleochroism | 強（青・無色） | 強（青緑・緑） |
| Chelsea filter | inert | inert |
| UV (long-wave) | inert | inert |
| UV (short-wave) | inert | inert |
ObservationOBSERVATION
◆Aquamarine is a calm, quiet blue. Paraíba's neon glow is on another level — side by side the difference is unmistakable.
Color categoriesCATEGORIES
A: Aquamarine
Blue
B: Paraíba Tourmaline
Blue
DISTINGUISHING TOOLS · 3 ITEMS
Distinguishing tools
Tools that decide between Aquamarine and Paraíba Tourmaline in practice.
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.