COMPARE GUIDE
CharoiteVSSugilite
Side-by-side comparison of physical properties, fluorescence, and crystal system — to identify by observation.
Decisive distinctionsDECISIVE
- ◎ is higher in Sugilite, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Charoite, 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: Charoite | B: Sugilite | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refractive index (RI) | 1.550–1.570 | 1.604–1.610 | B higher |
| Specific gravity (SG) | 2.54–2.78 | 2.74–2.80 | Overlap |
| Mohs hardness | 5.0–6.0 | 6.0–6.5 | Overlap |
| Birefringence | 0.009 | 0.003 | A higher |
| Dispersion | — | — | — |
Optics & fluorescenceOPTICS & UV
| Property | A: Charoite | B: Sugilite |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal system | 単斜晶系（多結晶） | 六方晶系 |
| Pleochroism | — | — |
| Chelsea filter | — | — |
| UV (long-wave) | — | — |
| UV (short-wave) | inert | inert |
ObservationOBSERVATION
◆Sugilite has RI 1.59–1.61 and SG 2.74, with a more uniform purple color and granular rather than fibrous texture; charoite has RI 1.55–1.57 and an unmistakable swirling chatoyant fiber structure.
Color categoriesCATEGORIES
A: Charoite
Purple
B: Sugilite
Purple
DISTINGUISHING TOOLS · 2 ITEMS
Distinguishing tools
Tools that decide between Charoite and Sugilite 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.