Dureza y durabilidad de los metales de joyería: Escala Mohs y uso diario

When selecting an engagement ring or wedding band, the metal you choose determines not only its appearance and weight, but also its long-term durability, scratch resistance, and resizability.

Here is an engineering and metallurgical breakdown of common ring metals compared on the Mohs Hardness Scale and Vickers Hardness Scale (HV).

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Ring Metal Hardness Comparison Table

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Key Metal Characteristics for Daily Wear

1. Platinum: The Heirloom Standard

Platinum is dense and ductile. When platinum scratches, metal is not lost; instead, the metal shifts microscopically, developing a soft, lustrous antique finish known as a patina. It holds diamonds more securely than gold and can be resized repeatedly over generations.

2. 14k vs 18k Gold

14k gold contains 58.3% pure gold alloyed with copper, silver, and zinc, making it significantly harder and more scratch-resistant for daily manual labor than softer 18k gold (75% pure gold) or 22k gold.

3. Tungsten Carbide: The Indestructible Choice

Tungsten carbide is nearly as hard as a diamond. It will never bend, scratch, or lose its mirror polish under normal daily conditions. However, because it cannot be bent or melted, tungsten rings cannot be resized—if your finger size changes, the ring must be replaced.