Comparison · Semi-Precious Stones
Peridot vs Spinel
Peridot and Spinel are easy to confuse because both are semi-precious stones. Spinel is harder (Mohs 8) than Peridot (Mohs 6.5), so Spinel will scratch Peridot and not the other way round. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Peridot and Spinel
- Spinel is harder (Mohs 8) than Peridot (Mohs 6.5), so Spinel will scratch Peridot and not the other way round. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Peridot is orthorhombic, Spinel is cubic.
Peridot vs Spinel properties
| Property | Peridot | Spinel |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Semi-Precious Stones | Semi-Precious Stones |
| Mohs hardness | 6.5 | 8 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | transparent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 3.3 | 3.6 |
| Crystal system | orthorhombic | cubic |
| Common colors | Yellow-Green, Olive Green, Lime Green | Red, Pink, Blue, Purple, Orange, Black |
| Rarity | uncommon | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $50–$2000+ | $100–$10000+ |
Which is more valuable?
Spinel is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $500 against $200 for Peridot, and premium Spinel can reach $10000 or more.
About Peridot
Peridot is the gem variety of olivine, one of the most common minerals in Earth's mantle. Its distinctive yellow-green color comes from iron.
About Spinel
Spinel was historically mistaken for ruby and sapphire. The 'Black Prince's Ruby' in the British Crown Jewels is actually a spinel.
Peridot vs Spinel FAQ
Is Peridot the same as Spinel?
No. Both are semi-precious stones, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Spinel is harder (Mohs 8) than Peridot (Mohs 6.5), so Spinel will scratch Peridot and not the other way round. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
How can you tell Peridot from Spinel?
Spinel is harder (Mohs 8) than Peridot (Mohs 6.5), so Spinel will scratch Peridot and not the other way round. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file. Well-formed crystals give it away: Peridot is orthorhombic, Spinel is cubic.
Which is harder, Peridot or Spinel?
Spinel is harder: Mohs 8 against Mohs 6.5 for Peridot.
Which is more valuable, Peridot or Spinel?
Spinel is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $500 against $200 for Peridot, and premium Spinel can reach $10000 or more.
