Mohs Hardness Scale

The Mohs scale of mineral hardness characterizes the scratch resistance of various minerals through the ability of a harder material to scratch a softer material.

RatingTest RockOther Tests
1TalcCan be scratched by fingernail
2GypsumScratched by copper/bronze coin
3CalciteScratched by copper/bronze coin
4FluoriteScratched by steel; scratches coin
5ApatiteScratched by steel; scratches coin
6FeldsparScratches glass
7QuartzNot scratched by steel
8TopazNot scratched by steel
9CorundumNot scratched by steel
10DiamondNo mineral harder


The table below shows the hardness for various gemstones.

GemstoneHardness
Serpentine1.5
Amber2-2.5
Chrysocolla2-2.5
Tortoise shell2.5
Pearl2.5-3.5
Jet2.5-4
Coral3.5
Rhodochrosite3.5-4.5
Rock crystal3.5-5
Lapis Lazuli5.5
Moonstone5.5-6
Turquoise5.5-6
Opal5.5-6.5
Tanzanite6
Chalcedony6.5-7
Jade6.5-7
Peridot6.5-7
Garnet6.5-7.5
Kunzite7
Quartz7
Tourmaline7-7.5
Zircon7.5
Beryl7.5-8
Spinel8
Topaz8
Chrysoberyl8.5
Sapphire9
Ruby9
Diamond10

Source: Wikipedia, Dragon #248

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