Peridot (Olivine) vs Tsavorite
Comparing Peridot (Olivine) and Tsavorite — two popular gemstones that share a similar color palette. On the Mohs scale, Peridot (Olivine) rates 6.5 and Tsavorite rates 7.0. In terms of price, Peridot (Olivine) falls in the moderately priced range and Tsavorite in the moderately priced range.
| Property | Peridot (Olivine) | Tsavorite |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 3.55 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 | 1.735 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Isometric |
| Luster | Vitreous,Greasy | — |
| Chemical Formula | — | — |
| Price Tier | Moderate ($50-500/ct) | Moderate ($50-500/ct) |
| Daily Wear | Nein | Ja |
Key Differences
- ◆ {'gem_a': '6.5', 'gem_b': '7.0', 'property': 'Hardness (Mohs)'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Orthorhombic', 'gem_b': 'Isometric', 'property': 'Crystal System'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '3.27', 'gem_b': '3.55', 'property': 'Specific Gravity'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '1.65', 'gem_b': '1.735', 'property': 'Refractive Index'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Vitreous,Greasy', 'gem_b': 'N/A', '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 its significance as the modern August birthstone. It's ideal for occasional wear pieces and pendants.
When to choose Tsavorite
Choose Tsavorite when you want superior hardness and scratch resistance, higher brilliance and light performance, and suitability for daily wear. It's ideal for engagement rings and everyday jewelry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is harder, Peridot (Olivine) or Tsavorite?
Tsavorite is harder at 7.0-7.5 on the Mohs scale, compared to Peridot (Olivine) at 6.5-7.0. This makes Tsavorite more resistant to scratching. Tsavorite 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 Tsavorite?
Peridot (Olivine) and Tsavorite are in a similar price range, both classified as moderately priced ($50-500/ct). Peridot (Olivine) typically ranges moderately priced ($50-500/ct), while Tsavorite ranges moderately priced ($50-500/ct).
Should I choose Peridot (Olivine) or Tsavorite for an engagement ring?
For an engagement ring, Tsavorite 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 Tsavorite apart?
There are several visual cues: Peridot (Olivine) typically appears green while Tsavorite is various; Tsavorite (RI 1.735-1.744) shows more brilliance than Peridot (Olivine) (RI 1.65-1.71); they have different crystal systems — Peridot (Olivine) is Orthorhombic and Tsavorite is Isometric. A gemologist can confirm identification using refractive index testing.
Why do Peridot (Olivine) and Tsavorite look similar?
Peridot (Olivine) and Tsavorite look similar because both can show overlapping colors — Peridot (Olivine) is green and Tsavorite is various.