COMPARE GUIDE
Green SpinelVSTsavorite Garnet
Side-by-side comparison of physical properties, fluorescence, and crystal system — to identify by observation.
Decisive distinctionsDECISIVE
- ◎ is higher in Tsavorite Garnet, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Green Spinel, 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: Green Spinel | B: Tsavorite Garnet | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refractive index (RI) | 1.712–1.736 | 1.740–1.760 | B higher |
| Specific gravity (SG) | 3.58–3.61 | 3.57–3.73 | Overlap |
| Mohs hardness | 8.0 | 7.0–7.5 | A higher |
| Birefringence | — | — | — |
| Dispersion | — | — | — |
Optics & fluorescenceOPTICS & UV
| Property | A: Green Spinel | B: Tsavorite Garnet |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal system | 等軸晶系 | 等軸晶系 |
| Pleochroism | — | — |
| Chelsea filter | — | inert |
| UV (long-wave) | — | inert |
| UV (short-wave) | inert | weak (yellow) |
ObservationOBSERVATION
◆Tsavorite is brighter and more transparent green with refractive index near 1.74; green spinel has RI 1.71–1.72 and is typically slightly darker.
Color categoriesCATEGORIES
A: Green Spinel
Green
B: Tsavorite Garnet
Green
DISTINGUISHING TOOLS · 2 ITEMS
Distinguishing tools
Tools that decide between Green Spinel and Tsavorite Garnet 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.

