The Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness (Crystal Identification) (1 Viewer)

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Laron

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Yes, there is actually an official scientific scale to go by, when it comes to crystals and stones, called Mohs. For those out there who have a collection of crystals, this can be really helpful, but it's also rather interesting anyway.

The Mohs Scale is a qualitative original scale that characterizes the scratch resistance of minerals, based on harder material scratching softer.

Back in 1812, a German mineralogist and geologist Friedrich Mohs came up with the idea, and since then, it's helped scientists in the field identify crystals.

Mohs_Scale2_1.jpg
Image Source: National Park Service, USA

As we can see above, the hardest mineral is a Diamond, following by Corundum, Topaz, Quartz, Orthoclase, Apatite, Flourite, Calcite, Gypsium and Talc.

Interestingly, these items are also measured on the scale to provide further perspective.:

8.5 — Maonary Drill Bit
6.5 — Steel Nail
5.5 — Knife/Glass Plate
3.5 — Copper Penny
2.5 — Fingernail

For those of you have have bitten a fingernail, now you know you can chew into some Talc and Gypsum if your're anxious or bored. (Just kidding, I don't recommend this!)

Additionally, here are some other things that are measured on this scale.

1 1/2 — Tin
2 1/2 — Gold & Silver
2 1/2-3 — Copper
 

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