The Mohs Scale of Hardness
What Is the Mohs Scale—and Why Does It Matter for Jewellery?
When you’re shopping for jewellery, you probably think about things like colour, sparkle, and style. But have you ever wondered how tough your favourite gemstones really are? That’s where the Mohs scale comes in—a handy little tool that tells us how hard a gem is and how well it can stand up to everyday wear.
So, what exactly is the Mohs scale?
The Mohs scale of mineral hardness was created in 1812 by German geologist Friedrich Mohs (yep, it’s named after him!). It ranks minerals on a scale from 1 to 10, based on their ability to scratch one another. A higher number means a harder material.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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1 – Talc (super soft—you could scratch it with your fingernail)
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5 – Apatite (about as hard as window glass)
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7 – Quartz (pretty tough—many everyday surfaces can’t scratch it)
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10 – Diamond (the hardest natural material known)
Why does it matter for jewellery?
Understanding a gem’s hardness can help you choose the right piece for your lifestyle. For example:
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Diamonds, sapphires, and rubies (8–10) are great for rings and daily wear—they’re less likely to scratch.
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Opals, pearls, and turquoise (softer, around 5 or below) are more delicate, so they’re better for special occasions or pieces like earrings and pendants that don’t get bumped as much.
A little care goes a long way
Even hard gemstones can chip if struck, and softer ones can still be beautiful with the right setting and care. So while the Mohs scale is a helpful guide, it’s just one piece of the puzzle when choosing and caring for your jewellery.
Whether you’re picking out your next heirloom or just curious about your favourite gemstones, the Mohs scale is a great way to understand what makes each gem unique. And if you ever have questions, we’re always here to help! Feel free to get in touch here
