Wondering how hard your favorite gemstone is? Explore our ranked list of the most common gemstones on the Mohs Hardness Scale — including birthstones — with Martin Busch Jewelers in NYC.
Ranked: The Most Common Gemstones on the Mohs Hardness Scale
Not all gemstones are created equal — especially when it comes to durability. Whether you're choosing an engagement ring or a meaningful birthstone gift, knowing where a gemstone falls on the Mohs Hardness Scale helps you choose jewelry that fits your lifestyle.
At Martin Busch Jewelers, we believe you should feel confident in your jewelry—whether it’s for everyday wear or a special occasion. Let’s explore how common gemstones rank, including your birthstone.
What Is the Mohs Hardness Scale?
The Mohs Scale of Hardness is a scientific system that ranks minerals on a scale from 1 (very soft) to 10 (extremely hard) based on their ability to resist scratching.
Most Common Gemstones Ranked by Hardness
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Diamond | 10 | Hardest; perfect for everyday wear |
| Sapphire & Ruby | 9 | Durable & colorful corundum varieties |
| Spinel & Topaz | 8 | Great luster; avoid sharp blows |
| Quartz (Amethyst, etc) | 7 | Popular and affordable; moderate care needed |
| Moonstone, Feldspar | 6 | Soft; not ideal for rings |
| Apatite | 5 | Very soft; for occasional wear only |
| Pearls, Opal, Turquoise | 2.5–4.5 | Extremely delicate; avoid exposure & friction |
Where Do Birthstones Rank on the Mohs Scale?
Your birthstone holds personal meaning — but how well does it hold up in daily wear? Here's a quick breakdown of each month’s birthstone ranked by Mohs hardness, along with care tips:
| Month | Birthstone(s) | Mohs Hardness | Durability Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | 6.5–7.5 | Moderate |
| February | Amethyst (Quartz) | 7 | Fairly durable |
| March | Aquamarine | 7.5–8 | Great for regular wear |
| April | Diamond | 10 | Extremely durable |
| May | Emerald | 7.5–8 (but brittle) | Use with care |
| June | Pearl, Moonstone, Alexandrite | 2.5–8.5 | Varies; pearls need care |
| July | Ruby | 9 | Very durable |
| August | Peridot, Spinel | 6.5–8 | Medium |
| September | Sapphire | 9 | Ideal for everyday wear |
| October | Opal, Tourmaline | 5.5–6.5 | Handle with care |
| November | Citrine, Topaz | 7–8 | Fairly durable |
| December | Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Turquoise | 5–8 | Mixed durability |
Birthstone Tip:
Not all birthstones are suited for rings or everyday use. If you love a softer stone (like opal or turquoise), consider wearing it as a pendant or earrings, which are less exposed to bumps and wear.
Gemstone Care Based on Hardness
| Mohs Range | Recommended Care |
|---|---|
| 9–10 | Low maintenance, ideal for daily wear |
| 7–8 | Moderate care; avoid abrasives |
| 6 and below | High care; store separately, avoid heat and moisture |
Choose the Right Gemstone for You
Understanding the Mohs hardness of a gemstone helps you protect your jewelry, choose pieces that suit your daily routine, and keep sentimental items looking their best.
Whether you’re shopping for a birthstone necklace, a custom engagement ring, or a special anniversary piece, our team at Martin Busch Jewelers is here to help you choose jewelry that’s both beautiful and built to last.
Martin Busch Jewelers | Trusted NYC Jeweler Since 1954
We're proud to offer expert advice, custom jewelry design, and a curated selection of durable, meaningful gemstone jewelry right here in the Financial District of NYC.
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