The refractive index of fused alumina is approx. 1.76, whereas that of normal glass types is approx. 1.4. The closer the refractive indices are to each other, the more transparent the system (e.g. varnishes).
What is the structure?
Structure is basically the spacing between abrasive grains. An open structure would be 12 or higher while a closer structure would be 6 or so. Here again, the structure depends on a variety of factors not the least