The hardest mineral on the Mohs scale is diamond. Rated as a 10 on the scale, diamond’s exceptional hardness is attributed to its unique crystal structure, where each carbon atom is tetrahedrally bonded to four other carbon atoms. This strong covalent bonding gives diamonds their extraordinary strength and durability, making them highly prized in jewelry and industrial applications. They are often used in cutting, grinding, and drilling tools due to their capability to cut through even the hardest materials. Besides their physical properties, diamonds are culturally significant and symbolically associated with love and commitment in various societies.