Peridot (Olivine) vs Tourmaline
Both popular gemstones that share a similar color palette, Peridot (Olivine) and Tourmaline are frequently compared by gemstone enthusiasts. Peridot (Olivine) scores 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale while Tourmaline scores 7.0. Price-wise, Peridot (Olivine) is moderately priced and Tourmaline is moderately priced.
| Property | Peridot (Olivine) | Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Semi-Precious Gems | Semi-Precious Gems |
| Primary Color | green | various |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5–7.0 | 7.0–7.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.27 | 2.85 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 | 1.614 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Trigonal |
| Luster | Vitreous,Greasy | Vitreous |
| Chemical Formula | — | — |
| Price Tier | Moderate ($50-500/ct) | Moderate ($50-500/ct) |
| Daily Wear | لا | نعم |
Key Differences
- ◆ {'gem_a': '6.5', 'gem_b': '7.0', 'property': 'Hardness (Mohs)'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Orthorhombic', 'gem_b': 'Trigonal', 'property': 'Crystal System'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '3.27', 'gem_b': '2.85', 'property': 'Specific Gravity'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '1.65', 'gem_b': '1.614', 'property': 'Refractive Index'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Vitreous,Greasy', 'gem_b': 'Vitreous', 'property': 'Luster'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'moderate', 'gem_b': 'moderate', 'property': 'Price Range'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'No', 'gem_b': 'Yes', 'property': 'Daily Wear'}
When to choose Peridot (Olivine)
Choose Peridot (Olivine) when you want higher brilliance and light performance, and its significance as the modern August birthstone. It's ideal for occasional wear pieces and pendants.
When to choose Tourmaline
Choose Tourmaline when you want superior hardness and scratch resistance, and suitability for daily wear. It's ideal for engagement rings and everyday jewelry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is harder, Peridot (Olivine) or Tourmaline?
Tourmaline is harder at 7.0-7.5 on the Mohs scale, compared to Peridot (Olivine) at 6.5-7.0. This makes Tourmaline more resistant to scratching. Tourmaline is suitable for daily wear, while peridot (olivine) requires more careful handling and is not ideal for daily wear.
Is Peridot (Olivine) more expensive than Tourmaline?
Peridot (Olivine) and Tourmaline are in a similar price range, both classified as moderately priced ($50-500/ct). Peridot (Olivine) typically ranges moderately priced ($50-500/ct), while Tourmaline ranges moderately priced ($50-500/ct).
Should I choose Peridot (Olivine) or Tourmaline for an engagement ring?
For an engagement ring, Tourmaline is the stronger choice with a durability rating of 7/10. At 7.0-7.5 Mohs hardness, it can withstand daily wear well. Peridot (Olivine) (6.5-7.0 Mohs) is softer and more prone to scratching with everyday use, making it better suited for occasional-wear jewelry.
How can I tell Peridot (Olivine) and Tourmaline apart?
There are several visual cues: Peridot (Olivine) typically appears green while Tourmaline is various; Peridot (Olivine) has a vitreous,greasy luster compared to Tourmaline's vitreous luster; they have different crystal systems — Peridot (Olivine) is Orthorhombic and Tourmaline is Trigonal. A gemologist can confirm identification using refractive index testing.
Why do Peridot (Olivine) and Tourmaline look similar?
Peridot (Olivine) and Tourmaline look similar because both can show overlapping colors — Peridot (Olivine) is green and Tourmaline is various.