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Diamond Hardness
Diamond hardness is a material property which describes how resistant a diamond 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 in a somewhat illogical manner by the German mineralogist, Friedrich Mohs back in 1812. Mohs’ scale represents different levels of absolute hardness from 1 the softest (Talc) through to 10 the hardest (Diamond).
According to the Mohs scale, Corundum is the next hardest material at 9 Mohs, however IGI claims to have proven Corundum 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 with a hardness of 9 Mohs or less is much softer than diamond.
Today, diamond hardness is measured with a scientific instrument called a sclerometer. Because diamond is the hardest substance on earth, the only way to test how it scratches is to apply diamond to the surface of the diamond, and apply pressure until a scratch is produced. This is what the sclerometer does and how it determines diamond hardness.
Diamond hardness is important to preserving the beauty and attractiveness of the stone, because a scratch will inhibit the brilliancy, lustre and transparency of the stone. Diamond hardness also helps in the polishing process and makes the diamond’s cutting efficiency.
It is the beauty of diamond, its lasting beauty and the diamond hardness that makes diamonds the preferred gem to symbolize long term love and commitment.
Mohs Scale
Diamond 10
Corundum 9
Topaz 8
Quartz 7
Feldspar 6
Apatite 5
Fluorite 4
Calcite 3
Gypsum 2
Talc 1
