Moissanite Hardness Scale: What is the Hardness of Moissanite?
Men looking to up their accessory game are drawn towards moissanite jewelry and for good reasons. It’s a fraction of what you’d pay for traditional diamond jewelry yet it shines brighter. Plus, there are no ethical concerns associated with moissanite.
But what is the hardness of moissanite? Is moissanite harder than diamond? How hard is moissanite compared to other diamond alternatives? We’ll answer all these questions and many others about the moissanite hardness scale here in this guide.
It makes sense that you’d question the hardness of moissanite, as this speaks to the stone’s durability. You want something that will stand the test of time, resisting scratches, chips, and fading. Rest assured moissanite will meet your expectations.
It’s an impressive 9.25/10 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamonds. So whether you’re interested in a moissanite chain, moissanite bracelet, moissanite rings, or anything in between, you can place your order at Adamans with peace of mind.
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness Rating |
|---|---|
| Diamond | 10 |
| Moissanite | 9.25 |
| Sapphire | 9 |
| Cubic Zirconia (CZ) | 8-8.5 |
| Topaz | 8 |
Overview of Moissanite
This gemstone is as bold and brilliant as any you have at your disposal. It was originally discovered in meteorite fragments by Nobel Prize-winning scientist Dr. Henri Moissan. Since then this rare mineral has become one of the most sought-after alternatives to diamonds.
Today, most moissanite is lab-made. It still puts out the same incredible sparkle associated with real moissanite but at a fraction of the price (and without the ethical concerns of mined stones).
The unique refractive properties of moissanite capture and reflect light like no other gemstone - even diamonds. It puts out an intense sparkle that draws attention from every angle.
Moissanite is also known for exceptional fire, or the rainbow-like flashes of color it emits. It’s even more vibrant in this regard than diamonds, which is why anyone looking for a statement piece that will turn heads is drawn toward moissanite.
From its affordability to its sustainability and ethical benefits, there’s so much to love about moissanite. But, durability is certainly an important factor as well. So, what is the hardness of moissanite?
What is the Hardness of Moissanite?
The moissanite Mohs hardness of 9.25 is exceptional. In fact, there’s only one stone in the world that is harder. But what is the Mohs hardness scale, exactly?
It’s a way of measuring a mineral’s resistance to scratching. Stones are placed on a scale of 1-10, meaning moissanite is just about as good as it gets. It’s incredibly durable and capable of withstanding everyday wear and tear without losing its brilliance or integrity.
Whether set in a ring, chain, or pendant, its hardness ensures that it won’t dull, chip, or scratch easily, making it perfect for jewelry designed to last a lifetime. On that note, we want to quickly highlight why the hardness of moissanite is one of its main selling points.
Why the Moissanite Hardness Matters
The last thing you want is a piece of jewelry you’re scared to wear too often for fear of damaging it. Or worse, noticing a chip or scratch on your favorite chain without even realizing you did anything to it. Fortunately, these aren’t concerns with moissanite.
Even with daily wear, your moissanite jewelry will remain as brilliant and pristine as the day you unboxed it. No need to stress about scratches, chips, or dulling. It can take an occasional bump against a surface and exposure to different environments in stride.
Of course, the stone itself is just one piece of the puzzle. It needs to be paired with durable metals like 18K gold or rhodium-plated silver for a piece that truly stands the test of time.
This is why customers shop here at Adamans, whether you’re looking for a moissanite tennis chain, moissanite Cuban link chain, moissanite pendant, moissanite watch, or even moissanite grillz. All our pieces are guaranteed for life.
Moissanite Hardness vs Diamond: Is Moissanite Harder Than Diamond?
The hardness of moissanite is remarkable - but is moissanite harder than diamond? In comparing the moissanite hardness vs diamond, this is actually the only gemstone that surpasses the durability of moissanite.
Diamonds hold the crown as the hardest gemstone on Earth with a perfect 10/10 ranking on the Mohs hardness scale. They set the standard. That being said, moissanite isn’t far behind with its rating of 9.25.
So, how hard is moissanite compared to diamonds? The difference is negligible for most wearers. It resists scratches and chips, even with frequent use. There may be extreme cases where a moissanite stone would get chipped or scratched and a diamond would not.
But, the moissanite hardness vs diamond is only one factor to take into consideration when choosing jewelry. While diamonds may be marginally more durable, they’re way more expensive, linked to ethical concerns, and lack the brilliance/fire moissanite is known for.
How Hard is Moissanite Compared to Other Diamond Alternatives?
But what about other gemstones used in modern jewelry - how hard is moissanite compared to these alternatives? Again, it's second only to diamonds, which means cubic zirconia (CZ), sapphire, and more will fall short of its durability.
CZ ranks around 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale depending on the manufacturer in question. That’s still pretty durable, but a good bit below moissanite. While CZ may look similar at first glance, it scratches easily and loses its brilliance over time.
Meanwhile, something like white sapphire is closer to moissanite on the Mohs hardness scale at 9. However, it will leave much to be desired in terms of brilliance and fire, which moissanite delivers effortlessly.
You’ll see much of the same in looking at gemstones such as topaz (8 on the Mohs scale) and quartz (7). They’re affordable, but you get what you pay for. Their durability concerns mean you might find yourself replacing the piece sooner than you’d like.
When it comes to balancing hardness, durability, and visual appeal, Moissanite outshines its competitors - literally. You can see more comparisons between moissanite vs cubic zirconia or a simulated diamond vs moissanite in our blog.
We also have tips on how to clean moissanite chain and address common questions like how much is a moissanite chain, does moissanite get cloudy, and does moissanite pass diamond tester. At this point, though, it’s time we wrapped up our moissanite hardness guide.
Bringing Our Moissanite Hardness Guide to a Close
So, what is the hardness of moissanite? Its incredible 9.25 ranking on the Mohs hardness scale is second only to diamonds, making this one of the most durable gemstones you have at your fingertips.
While it may fall a bit short of diamonds, the moissanite Mohs hardness is only one reason it’s the #1 choice for any guy looking to upgrade his accessory game. It puts out more brilliance and fire than diamonds at a fraction of the cost with none of the ethical concerns.
So whether you’re interested in a moissanite cross pendant, custom moissanite pendants, or anything in between, take a look at Adamans and see what we have in store for you. From simple, subtle styles to statement-makers, there’s something for everyone.
All our jewelry is backed by GRA reports and carries a lifetime guarantee so you can place your order with peace of mind. Discover the brilliance and hardness of Moissanite today.
