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Mohs Hardness Set, Collection of 9 Mohs Hardness Set
Sequentially Calibrated Specimens (Scale 1-9): Enables students to evaluate and rank unknown lithological samples against a standardized index for accurate mineral classification.
Partitioned Indexed Storage: Preserves the integrity of calibrated surfaces and prevents cross-contamination, ensuring reliable identification of hardness variables across multiple cohorts.
₹365.00
Quick Answer: This set provides reference specimens for the Mohs hardness scale, the standard relative scratch-hardness scale used in mineral identification, letting students perform hands-on scratch tests rather than only reading about hardness values.
Product Description
The Mohs Hardness Set gives students physical reference specimens for the Mohs scale, the relative hardness scale mineralogists have used for two centuries to compare how easily one mineral scratches another. Hardness is one of the most diagnostic physical properties in mineral identification, and this set turns an abstract 1-to-10 numbering system into a hands-on scratch-testing exercise.
In a typical Mohs hardness exercise, students take an unknown mineral and test it against reference specimens of known hardness, working up or down the scale until they find the point at which the unknown can scratch, and be scratched by, specimens of a given hardness. This bracketing method is a genuinely useful field and lab identification technique, and practicing it with real reference specimens builds skill that translates directly to identifying unknown rocks and minerals elsewhere in a course.
This set pairs naturally with a general mineral identification collection, since hardness testing is most useful as one tool among several (alongside streak, luster, and cleavage) when working through an unknown specimen.
Set Details
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Specimen Count | 9 individually numbered hardness reference specimens |
| Purpose | Hands-on reference set for the Mohs relative hardness scale |
| Specimen Format | Hand-sample sized pieces suitable for repeated scratch testing |
| Recommended Use | Mineral hardness testing and identification exercises |
| Storage | Labeled tray or set box for organized storage between uses |
Applications
- Hands-on Mohs scratch-hardness testing exercises
- Mineral identification labs using the bracketing method against known reference hardness
- Introductory geology and earth science units on physical mineral properties
- Companion tool alongside a general mineral identification collection
Care & Handling
- Handle specimens carefully during scratch testing to avoid excessive wear on reference surfaces
- Return specimens to their labeled slots after each use to preserve the correct hardness sequence
- Store away from direct moisture and sunlight
- Avoid unnecessary scratching beyond what is needed for the identification exercise, to extend specimen life
Why Choose LabEquip
LabEquip’s Mohs Hardness Set turns a textbook concept into a genuine hands-on skill. Pair it with a general reference collection like the Mineral Set, Collection of 20 Minerals, or explore another physical-property themed set with the Odor/Taste Collection. Browse the full Educational Rock and Minerals category for more reference sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mohs hardness scale?
The Mohs scale is a relative scratch-hardness scale used in mineralogy, where each mineral on the scale can scratch those below it and be scratched by those above it.
How is this set used in the classroom?
Students test an unknown mineral against the reference specimens, using the bracketing method to determine where its hardness falls on the scale.
Why does this set have 9 specimens rather than 10?
This set provides a practical working range of Mohs hardness reference specimens for classroom scratch testing; check the current listing for the exact hardness values included.
Is hardness testing enough to identify a mineral on its own?
No. Hardness is a valuable diagnostic property, but it works best combined with other tests such as streak, luster, and cleavage as part of a full identification process.
Can this set be used alongside a general mineral collection?
Yes. It is designed as a companion reference set to support hardness testing during broader mineral identification exercises.
Are the specimens labeled or numbered?
Each specimen is numbered so it can be matched to its known hardness value on the scale during testing.
Last Updated: September 2026
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