What is the Mohs Scale?
The Mohs scale of mineral hardness characterizes the scratch resistance of various minerals through the ability of harder material to scratch softer material. It ranges from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond).
Common Gemstones and Their Hardness
- Diamond - 10: The hardest natural substance, perfect for everyday wear
- Ruby & Sapphire - 9: Excellent for all jewelry types
- Emerald - 7.5-8: Durable but requires more care due to inclusions
- Aquamarine - 7.5-8: Good for most jewelry
- Amethyst - 7: Suitable for most jewelry with reasonable care
- Opal - 5.5-6.5: More delicate, best for occasional wear
- Pearl - 2.5-4.5: Very soft, requires special care
Practical Implications
Understanding hardness helps you:
- Choose appropriate stones for different jewelry types
- Understand care requirements
- Prevent damage through proper storage
- Make informed purchasing decisions
Daily Wear Recommendations
For rings and bracelets worn daily, choose gemstones with a hardness of 7 or higher. Softer stones are better suited for earrings, pendants, or occasional wear pieces.