What is the Mohs' Scale?

When you’re choosing a beautiful gemstone for your next piece of jewelry, there’s one factor you should always consider: durability. And that’s where the Mohs' Scale comes in. Developed by German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs in 1812, this scale measures the hardness of minerals, ranking them from 1 to 10 based on their resistance to scratching. Whether you’re picking out a diamond ring or a softer opal necklace, understanding the Mohs' scale can help you make an informed decision.

Let’s dive into the scale’s most notable stones. Diamonds, the hardest natural material, sit proudly at the top of the scale with a perfect 10. They are incredibly resistant to scratches, which is why they’re a popular choice for engagement rings and other high-wear jewelry. On the other hand, amber, a fossilized tree resin, sits at the lower end of the scale with a rating of 2-2.5, making it more susceptible to scratches and damage.

How Does the Mohs' Scale Work?

The Mohs' scale ranks minerals by their ability to scratch others. For example, a mineral with a hardness of 6 can scratch all minerals rated lower but will be scratched by anything rated 7 or higher. This scale isn’t just a linear measure—diamonds at a 10 are actually significantly harder than topaz at 8.

The Top 15 Gemstones on the Mohs' Scale

Here’s a quick look at the most popular gemstones and where they fall:

1. Amber (2-2.5) – A stunning, golden fossilized resin, but fragile and easy to scratch.

2. Pearl (2.5-4.5) – Organic and delicate, pearls can be damaged by everyday chemicals.

3. Opal (5.5-6.5) – Known for its enchanting colors but needs careful handling to avoid scratches.

4. Jade (6-7) – Although tough in terms of breakage, it can be scratched more easily.

5. Moonstone (6-6.5) – This ethereal gem is a variety of feldspar, requiring gentle care.

6. Quartz (7) – A common and durable gemstone, used in many designs like amethyst and citrine.

7. Garnet (6.5-7.5) – Garnet is a classic, durable gemstone, perfect for everyday wear.

8. Peridot (6.5-7) – A vibrant green stone, but still vulnerable to scratches.

9. Topaz (8) – Known for its brilliance and durability, this stone can hold up well in rings.

10. Spinel (8) – Often mistaken for ruby, spinel offers a high level of durability.

11. Emerald (7.5-8) – While it ranks high, emeralds have inclusions that can make them brittle.

12. Aquamarine (7.5-8) – A clear blue stone that is strong enough for everyday wear.

13. Sapphire and Ruby (9) – Both are varieties of corundum, making them durable and popular choices for fine jewelry.

14. Diamond (10) – The hardest natural substance, ideal for long-lasting beauty and sparkle.

Why the Mohs' Scale Matters

Choosing a gemstone isn’t just about its beauty, it’s about its practicality too. The Mohs' scale helps you pick stones that match your lifestyle. If you’re shopping for a piece you’ll wear often—like a ring or bracelet—you’ll want to go with a gemstone rated 7 or higher to ensure it withstands daily wear and tear.

For delicate pieces, like a necklace or pearl earrings, a softer gem can still work beautifully as it’s less likely to be bumped or scratched.

Understanding the Mohs' scale allows you to choose jewelry that stays radiant over time, ensuring that your investment is as enduring as it is dazzling. Ready to shop for your next piece of gemstone jewelry? Explore Robinson's Jewelers' extensive collection of rings, earrings, necklaces, and more!