While all gemstones possess unique allure, not all are created equal when it comes to withstanding the rigors of daily life. The key to choosing a stone that will last lies in understanding the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.

What is the Mohs Hardness Scale?

Developed in 1812 by German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs, this scale ranks minerals on a scale from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest) based on their ability to resist scratching. It’s important to note that the scale is relative and non-linear—a diamond at 10 is significantly harder than a corundum (ruby or sapphire) at 9, which is itself much harder than a topaz at 8.

Gemstones Suitable for Daily Wear (7 and Above)

For rings, bracelets, and other jewelry subject to frequent contact, experts generally recommend stones with a hardness of 7 or higher on the Mohs scale. These gemstones can resist scratches from common environmental dust, which contains quartz particles rated at hardness 7.

Top Tier for Daily Wear (8-10)

The hardest known natural material, virtually scratch-proof.

An extremely durable lab-created gemstone.

Excellent choices for engagement rings and daily-wear jewelry.

Highly durable and suitable for regular wear.

Good durability, though emeralds often have inclusions that require more careful wear.

Good Choices for Daily Wear (7-7.

5)

Including amethyst, citrine, and ametrine.

Available in a rainbow of colors.

Most varieties fall in this range.

At the lower end of acceptable for daily wear.

Gemstones Requiring More Care (Below 7)

While beautiful, these stones are more prone to scratching and damage with regular wear:

Also sensitive to sudden temperature changes.

Best reserved for occasional wear or protective settings.

Can be porous and sensitive to chemicals.

Organic gems that require special care.

Fossilized resin that scratches easily.

Beyond Hardness:

Other Factors to Consider

While hardness is crucial, it’s not the only factor determining a gemstone’s suitability for daily wear:

Toughness: A gem’s resistance to breaking or chipping. Jade, though only 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, has exceptional toughness.
Stability: Resistance to heat, light, and chemicals. Some stones may fade or react to household chemicals.
Cleavage: The tendency to split along defined planes. Diamond has perfect cleavage despite its hardness, meaning it can chip if struck at the right angle.

Practical Recommendations

Choose stones with hardness of 8 or above.

Bezels or channel settings offer more protection than prong settings.

If you work with your hands, opt for harder stones regardless of the jewelry type.

Even durable gems benefit from periodic professional cleaning and inspection of settings.

Conclusion

The Mohs scale provides an essential guideline for selecting gemstones that will endure daily wear while maintaining their beauty. By choosing stones rated 7 or higher for frequently worn jewelry and reserving softer stones for pieces worn on special occasions, you can enjoy your gemstone collection for years to come. Remember that proper care and appropriate settings can extend the life of even the more delicate gems, allowing you to wear your favorites with confidence.

Ultimately, the perfect gemstone balances durability with personal meaning and aesthetic appeal—informed choices ensure your jewelry remains as lasting as the memories it represents.