The ability of a gemstone to resist mechanical action such as external pressing, scoring or grinding is called its hardness. The hardness of a gemstone is related to its crystal structure, chemical bond, and chemical composition.
The hardness of gemstones can be divided into absolute hardness and relative hardness. The absolute hardness is measured by a hardness tester under standard conditions. The relative hardness (or comparative hardness) of a gemstone (F) is the relative scoring hardness obtained by comparing with the specified standard minerals, which is the most meaningful in the identification of gemstones. The Mohs hardness tester is a qualitative level determined by the German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs in 1822 based on the relative hardness of 10 standard minerals. It is divided into ten levels, namely: talc 1, gypsum 2, calcite 3, and fluorite 4. , Apatite 5, Feldspar 6, Quartz 7, Topaz 8, Corundum 9, Diamond 10. If an unknown mineral can engrave orthoclase (Hm=6) but can be engraved by quartz (Hm=7), the Mohs hardness of this unknown mineral is between 6 and 7. In addition, the Mohs hardness of nails is 2.5, the Mohs hardness of glass is 5, and the Mohs hardness of steel blades is 5.5-6.
Mohs hardness is very helpful in gem identification. For example, when distinguishing Hetian jade and carbonate jade of the same color, the easiest way is to use a knife to mark. The one that can be marked by a knife is carbonate rock jade, and the one that cannot be marked by a knife is Hetian jade. For another example, when identifying Shoushan stone and talc, it is talc that can be scratched by nails, and Shoushan stone is not scratched. Scratch is a destructive test method, which is generally only used for testing gem materials, or testing on the inconspicuous parts of the finished gem. When conducting a hardness test, be sure to seek the opinions of customers or businesses.
For gems, the hardness is generally required to be large, so that it is not easy to wear. The main component of dust in the air is quartz. The polished surface of gemstones with a Mohs hardness of 7 and Mohs hardness less than 7 will become “hairy” and lose its original luster due to frequent impact and abrasion by dust in the air.
Baolong.com will continue to introduce you to jewelry, jade, and jade related knowledge to help you understand jewelry culture and enjoy a quality life.
OEM/ODM jewelry manufacturer design custom your own jewelry
LET’S GET STARTED : mo@kingjy.com
GuangZhou JingYing focus on custom wholesale ring necklaces bracelets earrings sterling silver 925 jewelry,sterling silver gold plated with 18K,14K,24K yellow gold,white gold and rose gold.It is able to custom sterling silver jewelry various design,logo brand or other words by laser engraving according to the customer’s requirement.
Our monthly production capacity is up to 50,000 piece bracelets necklace earrings ring jewelry.JingYing entering into a partnership with supermarkets,jewelry chain shop,outlet stores,jewelry wholesaler,traders and jewelry brand company,professional provide create customized jewelry and mass production of high quality 925 sterling silver jewelry service.