Peridot (Olivine) vs Spinel
ペリドット（オリビン）とスピネルはどちらも8月の誕生石として知られる人気宝石です。スピネルは硬度と輝きで優れ、ペリドットはより手頃な価格帯に位置します。
| Property | Peridot (Olivine) | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Semi-Precious Gems | Semi-Precious Gems |
| Primary Color | green | various |
| Mohs Hardness | 6.5–7.0 | 8.0 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.27 | 3.54 |
| Refractive Index | 1.65 | 1.71 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Isometric |
| Luster | Vitreous,Greasy | Vitreous |
| Chemical Formula | — | — |
| Price Tier | Moderate ($50-500/ct) | Fine ($500-5,000/ct) |
| Daily Wear | いいえ | はい |
Key Differences
- ◆ {'gem_a': '6.5', 'gem_b': '8.0', 'property': 'Hardness (Mohs)'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Orthorhombic', 'gem_b': 'Isometric', 'property': 'Crystal System'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '3.27', 'gem_b': '3.54', 'property': 'Specific Gravity'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': '1.65', 'gem_b': '1.71', 'property': 'Refractive Index'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'Vitreous,Greasy', 'gem_b': 'Vitreous', 'property': 'Luster'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'moderate', 'gem_b': 'fine', 'property': 'Price Range'}
- ◆ {'gem_a': 'No', 'gem_b': 'Yes', 'property': 'Daily Wear'}
When to choose Peridot (Olivine)
より手頃な価格や8月の誕生石としての意義を重視する方にはペリドット（オリビン）がお勧めです。
When to choose Spinel
傷つきにくさとより高い輝きを求める方にはスピネルがお勧めです。婚約指輪や日常使いに最適です。
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is harder, Peridot (Olivine) or Spinel?
Spinel is harder at 8.0 on the Mohs scale, compared to Peridot (Olivine) at 6.5-7.0. This makes Spinel more resistant to scratching. Spinel 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 Spinel?
No, Peridot (Olivine) is generally less expensive. Peridot (Olivine) is classified as moderately priced ($50-500/ct) at moderately priced ($50-500/ct), while Spinel is fine/premium ($500-5,000/ct) at fine/premium ($500-5,000/ct).
Should I choose Peridot (Olivine) or Spinel for an engagement ring?
For an engagement ring, Spinel is the stronger choice with a durability rating of 9/10. At 8.0 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 Spinel apart?
There are several visual cues: Peridot (Olivine) typically appears green while Spinel is various; Peridot (Olivine) has a vitreous,greasy luster compared to Spinel's vitreous luster; Spinel (RI 1.71-1.735) shows more brilliance than Peridot (Olivine) (RI 1.65-1.71); they have different crystal systems — Peridot (Olivine) is Orthorhombic and Spinel is Isometric. A gemologist can confirm identification using refractive index testing.
Can I use Peridot (Olivine) instead of Spinel as a birthstone?
Yes, both Peridot (Olivine) and Spinel are recognized birthstones for August. Peridot (Olivine) is the modern August birthstone and Spinel is the traditional August birthstone, so either is an appropriate choice for that month.