LAP MATERIALS
A tabel of Lap Materials, Compliments of The International Gem Society. These figures are approximate and are put together for your general reference.
| LAP MATERIAL | MOH'S | COMMENTS |
| Ceramic | 9 | Aluminum Oxide |
| Anodized Aluminum | 6.5 | Electrolytic coat |
| Steel | 5 to 8.5 | . |
| Cast Iron | 5 | . |
| Corian | 4 | Methal methacrylate plastic |
| Copper | 3 | . |
| Zink | 2.5 | . |
| Plexiglass, Lucite | 2 | Acrylic Plastic |
| Type Metal | 2 | Lead, tin, antimony, copper |
| Pewter | 2 | Lead, tin and variables |
| Metallized Resin | 1.9 | Metal pelets in resin |
| Type Metal | 1.8 | Tin and variables |
| Tin | 1.7 | . |
| Mylar | 1.6 | Polyester plastic |
| Acetate | 1.6 | . |
| Lead | 1.5 | . |
| Polyurithane | 1.5 | . |
| Vinyl | 1 | . |
| Beeswax/carnuba | 0.3 | . |
| Beeswax | 0.2 | . |
Note: These figures are approximate and are put together for your general reference.
The Moh's scale is really not appropriate for metals or polymers, because it is based on what scratches what in inelastic materials.
A deformable material like metal is measured by the displacement of the metal by a diamond point or a ball, as in the Rockwell or Brinell system. Polymers are usually measured by Shore Durometer, which also measures the deflection of a point under a force.
LAP MATERIALS
Compliments of The International Gem Society
International Gem Society
Related Articles
Double Eagle Mining Company
Denatured Alcohol for Stones
Cutting Problem Gem Rough for the Best Color
How to Measure Gem Girdle Thickness
Latest Articles
D20 Gemstone: a Dungeons and Dragons-Inspired Design
Variscite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Interview with Justin Prim and Victoria Raynaud: The Dynamic Duo That Built a Multifaceted Business in the World of Gems
37 Blue Gemstones (Names, Pics, & More)
Never Stop Learning
When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.
Get Gemology Insights
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!