The Mohs scale of mineral hardness is a qualitative ordinal scale characterizing the scratch resistance of various minerals through the ability of a harder material to scratch a softer material. Friedrich Mohs created this scale.
This scale, devised in 1812, provides a simple yet effective method for mineral identification in the field. Its enduring utility stems from its ease of use and the widespread availability of reference minerals. Prior to the advent of sophisticated analytical instrumentation, it served as a crucial tool in mineralogy and geology.
