Yattrium aluminum garnet is a synthetic crystalline material belonging to the garnet group. YAG is popular for use in optic applications such as laser systems. Doping YAG with another ion such as neodymium or erbium can make it useful in solid-state lasers.
Once used as a diamond simulant, it can be colored with other elements and faceted. YAG has excellent clarity, durability, high refractive index, and can exhibit a color-change phenomenon. It was replaced as a diamond simulant once synthetic cubic zirconia hit the market in 1995.
Gemological Information for YAG
| Color: | Colorless and a Variety of Other Colors |
| Crystal Structure: | Cubic |
| Refractive Index: | 1.83 |
| Durability: | Very Durable |
| Hardness: | 8 |
| Family: | |
| Similar Stones: | Diamond, Zircon, Strontium Titanate, Sphene, CZ, GGG, Synthetic Rutile, Spessartite, Demantoid |
| Manufacturing Method | Czochralski |
| Country of Origin: |
YAG Care
| Ultrasonic Cleaning: | Safe |
| Steam Cleaning: | Safe |
| Warm Soapy Water: | Safe |
| Chemical Attack: | None |
| Light Sensitivity: | None |
| Heat Sensitivity: | None |