Diamond Hardness

Hardness is material property which describes just how resistant it is to being damaged or scratched. It is quantified using the scale of Mohs.

Diamond is 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness.

The Mohs scale was chosen somewhat illogically by the German mineralogist. He's scale represents different levels of absolute hardness from 1 to 10 Mohs.

Where Corundum is the next hardest material at 9 Mohs, IGI claims it is proven to be 10 to 150 times weaker than diamond. The variation is a result of differences in testing techniques and the fact that diamond surface hardness is variable depending on directional factors. Hardness is spatially directed.

Nevertheless, any material of hardness 9 Mohs or less is much softer than diamond.

Its unique hardness and lasting beauty has made diamonds the preferred gem when symbolising long term commitment.

Mohs Scale
Diamond 10
Corundum 9
Topaz 8
Quartz 7
Feldspar 6
Apatite 5
Fluorite 4
Calcite 3
Gypsum 2
Talc 1