Comparing Hardness: Moissanite vs. Diamonds

When it comes to choosing a gemstone for your jewelry, hardness is a crucial factor to consider. Moissanite and diamonds are two popular choices, but how do they compare in terms of hardness?

What is the Mohs Scale of Hardness?

The Mohs Scale of Hardness is a scale that measures the scratch resistance of various minerals. It ranges from 1 (the softest) to 10 (the hardest). Diamonds, with a score of 10, are the hardest natural substance known to man. Moissanite, on the other hand, scores 9.25 on the Mohs Scale, making it a close contender in terms of hardness.

Why is Hardness Important?

Hardness is important because it determines how well a gemstone can withstand everyday wear and tear. A harder gemstone is less likely to scratch or chip, making it more suitable for everyday jewelry.

Which is Harder: Moissanite or Diamonds?

While diamonds are technically harder than moissanite, the difference in hardness between the two is minimal. In fact, the average person would not be able to tell the difference in hardness between a moissanite and a diamond in everyday wear.

Benefits of Moissanite's Hardness

Moissanite's hardness makes it a durable and long-lasting gemstone for jewelry. It is less likely to scratch or chip compared to other gemstones with lower hardness scores. This makes moissanite an excellent choice for engagement rings and other jewelry that is worn daily.

Considerations for Diamonds

While diamonds are the hardest gemstone, they are not indestructible. Diamonds can still chip or break if subjected to a hard blow or impact. It is important to care for your diamond jewelry properly to ensure its longevity.

Conclusion

When comparing hardness, both moissanite and diamonds are excellent choices for jewelry. While diamonds are slightly harder than moissanite, the practical difference in hardness is minimal for everyday wear. Ultimately, the choice between moissanite and diamonds should be based on personal preference, budget, and desired aesthetic.

The main difference in hardness between moissanite and natural diamonds is that diamonds have a hardness of 10, which is the hardest substance found in nature, while moissanite has a slightly lower hardness of 9.25. Although moissanite's hardness is slightly lower than that of diamonds, it is still very hard and is the second-hardest gemstone in nature. This means that moissanite can resist a certain degree of scratches and wear in everyday wear, but it is still slightly more susceptible to damage compared to diamonds.