Hardness

The measure of a material's resistance to deformation, typically reviewed in jewelry to assess durability.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: Hardness is a critical property in the jewelry industry as it indicates how well a material can resist scratching and wear over time. This characteristic is especially important for gemstones and metals used in everyday pieces, such as rings and bracelets, that are prone to frequent contact and potential damage. The measurement of hardness is often done using the Mohs scale, where materials are rated on a scale from 1 (talc) to 10 (diamond), the hardest known material. A higher hardness rating signifies that the material is less likely to scratch, ensuring that jewelry retains its beauty and structural integrity for a longer period. Consequently, understanding the hardness of materials aids jewelers and consumers in making informed decisions about the suitability of specific stones and metals for various types of jewelry.