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A known gemstone of brilliance and durability in the range of diamonds is Moissanite. Its sparkle and vibe can be attained inexpensively, acting as a replacement for diamonds. Especially for those who want a stone for an engagement ring or other types of jewelry.
Today, almost every moissanite product mentions its hardness, a parameter that makes it scratch and wear-resistant.
This article will help you in knowing about the moissanite’s hardness based on the Mohs hardness scale and also provide an explanation why it is among the best choice for everlasting jewelry.
What Is the Mohs Scale of Hardness?
The Mohs scale of hardness-a hardness scale developed in Germany by mineralogist Friedrich Mohs in 1812. It is used for measuring hardness of minerals, ranging from a spectrum of 1 to 10: with 1 being the softest (like talc) and 10 hardest (diamond).
This scale allows a classification of minerals in terms of scratch resistance. Each successive number can scratch any minerals with a lower number.
For jewelers and consumers alike, where a stone falls within the Mohs scale is crucial because it provides insight into how well it is going to hold up to daily wear.
In the case of moissanite, this rating becomes especially important, as it is the most often selected stone for daily wear engagement rings.
Moissanite on the Mohs Scale
Moissanite rates a stunning 9.25 on the Mohs scale, placing it just below diamonds, which are the only stones with a perfect 10 score.
Thus, Moissanite ranks a close second to diamonds, which is why it's one of the best choices for rings, bracelets, and any such item that comes into contact with different surfaces frequently.
What Separates Moissanite from Others?
Moissanite is not only one of the hardest stones on the Mohs scale, but granting it an appropriate toughness and resistance to chipping certainly adds to its desirability in fine jewelry.
Compared with other stones in the 7-9 category, including sapphires (9) or quartz (7), Moissanite seems to edge ahead with its toughness and scratch resistance where durability is concerned on the list of priorities for those purchasing a gemstone.
Moissanite Hardness Vs Other Gemstones
While considering the hardness of Moissanite, comparing it to other classic gemstones can help give you a better idea:
Diamond (10)-As point number ten, the diamond is the hardest natural material; practically, no other material can scratch a diamond. However, Moissanite is, in contrast to diamonds, highly resistant to chipping due to the latter's brittle nature.
Sapphire and Ruby (9)-Both gemstones belong to the corundum family and are widely used in fine jewelry. Although extremely hard, they lack the fire and brilliance of Moissanite.
Topaz (8)-Slightly softer than Moissanite, though still tough enough to withstand wear and tear, it is somewhat more fragile to scratches and chips.
Quartz (7)-Abundant and thus often used for jewelry, quartz is also quite soft and can easily be scratched by everyday materials.
By scoring above many of the other classical gemstones on the Mohs scale, Moissanite offers an interesting proposition for those who need a gemstone that combines durability with beauty.
Importance of Hardness in Jewelry
It is essential in jewelry to keep in mind the hardness of a material. As that determines how well a gem will be able to withstand everyday wear.
The gems that have Mohs hardness above 7, like Moissanite and diamond, stand the least likelihood of scratching from daily wear stuff like metals, glass, dirt, or dust.
Hardness is also crucial for engagement rings, which are worn on a daily basis, to prevent a gemstone from losing its polish and shine.
The extremely high hardness of moissanite contributes to the fact that it does not require a lot of care to remain looking elegant.
Softer stones such as opals (5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale) easily attract scratches, making them less attractive since they will need to be polished regularly.
Care of Moissanite
Moissanite, being so hard, has a good resistance to scratching when taken care of properly. There are tips you can use to keep your Moissanite jewelry in good condition.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While Moissanite can take a beating thanks to its scratch resistance, some cleaning chemicals can leave it hazy. For best results, use mild cleaners like soapy water to clean your jewelry.
- Clean Up After Use: Dirt and oils do accumulate on any stone, including Moissanite. Use a soft toothbrush with mild soap to clean your jewelry back to its sparkling condition.
- Safe Storage: Moissanite should be kept in either a soft pouch or jewelry box to keep from scratching against other materials.
- Workbook Checkups: It will, over time, at some point require inspection to check for any loose settings in gemstones, especially with rings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Moissanite perfect in handling scratches?
While no gemstone can ever truly be scratch-proof, Moissanite's hardness rating of 9.25 ensures that it can stand up to most materials against scratching. Only diamonds and a few lab-created substances can scratch Moissanite.
- Can Moissanite be worn every day?
Absolutely. Tough as nails-Moissanite ranks high on the 9.25 Mohs hardness scale. It is a splendid choice for the daily wear of engagement rings or any other regularly used jewelry.
- How does it compare with respect to lab-grown diamonds?
Diamonds grown in labs are similar to mined diamonds in terms of hardness, with a score of 10 on the Mohs scale. Since 9.25 of Moissanite is also an exceedingly strong and scratch-proof alternative, take your pick.
- What are the odds of Moissanite taking a chip?
Although Moissanite is remarkably tough, any gemstone could chip under sufficient force. Because of its peculiar crystal structure, it is less likely to chip compared with diamond, thus making it rather suitable for rings and other types of jewelry subject to knocks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, with its Mohs hardness rating of 9.25, Moissanite will be listed among the most durable gemstones after diamonds. Its high hardness, combined with formidable toughness, makes it appropriate for everyday wear in the form of rings and bracelets. Its beautiful grain, durable quality, and affordability create a marvelous alternative to diamonds; hence Moissanite is an excellent choice for jewelry requiring durability. Moissanite Engagement Rings, with their exceptional brilliance and lasting durability, offer a stunning and affordable option for couples looking for an elegant, enduring symbol of love.
