The Hardness of Ruby: Understanding the Mohs Scale
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As a gemstone enthusiast, you've likely heard of the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This scale, developed by the German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs in 1812, is a fundamental tool for understanding the durability and resilience of various gemstones. In this blog post, we'll dive deep into the Mohs hardness of one of the most coveted gemstones: ruby.
Ruby, a variety of the mineral corundum, is renowned for its stunning red hue and exceptional hardness. With a Mohs hardness of 9, ruby is one of the hardest naturally occurring gemstones, surpassed only by diamond, which sits at the top of the scale with a hardness of 10.
Understanding the Mohs Scale
The Mohs scale is a relative measure of a mineral's resistance to scratching. It ranges from 1 to 10, with 1 being the softest (talc) and 10 being the hardest (diamond). The scale is based on the ability of a harder mineral to scratch a softer one.
Here's a breakdown of the Mohs scale:
- Talc
- Gypsum
- Calcite
- Fluorite
- Apatite
- Orthoclase
- Quartz
- Topaz
- Corundum (ruby and sapphire)
- Diamond
The significance of the Mohs scale lies in its ability to predict a gemstone's durability and resistance to everyday wear and tear. Gemstones with a higher Mohs hardness are less likely to scratch, chip, or break, making them more suitable for everyday jewelry and accessories.
The Hardness of Ruby
As mentioned earlier, ruby has a Mohs hardness of 9, which is exceptionally high. This means that ruby is capable of scratching most other gemstones, with the exception of diamond. The high hardness of ruby is a result of its chemical composition and crystalline structure.
Rubies are composed of the mineral corundum, which is an aluminum oxide (Al2O3). The tight, well-organized crystal structure of corundum is what gives ruby its remarkable hardness. The strong bonds between the aluminum and oxygen atoms in the crystal lattice make it incredibly resistant to scratching and abrasion.
This high level of hardness is a significant advantage for ruby in the jewelry industry. Rubies are often used in engagement rings, necklaces, and other pieces of fine jewelry that are subjected to regular wear and tear. The durability of ruby ensures that the gemstone will maintain its luster and brilliance over time, even with frequent use.
Caring for Ruby Jewelry
Given the exceptional hardness of ruby, it may come as a surprise that proper care is still essential to maintain the gemstone's beauty and longevity. While ruby is highly resistant to scratching, it is not immune to damage from other sources, such as impacts or exposure to harsh chemicals.
Here are some tips for caring for your ruby jewelry:
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Rubies, like most gemstones, should be kept away from harsh chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, and harsh cleaners. These substances can dull the gemstone's surface and even cause discoloration. When cleaning ruby jewelry, use a mild soap and water solution, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners.
Protect from Impacts
While ruby is hard, it is still susceptible to chipping or cracking if subjected to sudden impacts or blows. Be mindful when wearing ruby jewelry, and avoid activities that may put the gemstone at risk of damage.
Store Properly
When not in use, store ruby jewelry in a soft, padded jewelry box or pouch. This will help prevent the gemstone from scratching or bumping against other pieces of jewelry, which could potentially cause damage.
Consult a Professional
For more extensive cleaning or repair of ruby jewelry, it's best to consult a professional jeweler. They have the expertise and equipment to safely clean and maintain your precious ruby pieces.
By understanding the Mohs hardness of ruby and following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your ruby jewelry remains a stunning and durable addition to your collection for years to come.
Conclusion
The exceptional hardness of ruby, as measured by the Mohs scale, is a testament to the gemstone's durability and resilience. With a Mohs hardness of 9, ruby is one of the hardest naturally occurring gemstones, making it an ideal choice for everyday jewelry and accessories.
By understanding the significance of the Mohs scale and the specific hardness of ruby, you can make informed decisions about the care and maintenance of your ruby jewelry. With proper handling and storage, your ruby pieces will continue to captivate and dazzle for generations to come.
So, the next time you admire the fiery brilliance of a ruby, take a moment to appreciate the remarkable hardness that gives this gemstone its unparalleled strength and longevity.
