A tiny scratch is all it takes to diminish the radiance of your beloved timepiece.
When selecting a new watch, the transparent material protecting the dial is often the most overlooked yet crucial component. It determines the watch’s resistance to daily wear and tear and its ability to maintain aesthetic appeal over the long term.
Among various materials, Mineral Glass and Sapphire Glass are the two most common choices, each with unique advantages and suitable scenarios. Understanding their differences will help you find the perfect timepiece that matches your lifestyle and budget.
Mineral Glass: The Balanced and Durable Practical Choice
Mineral glass, also known as strengthened glass, is a type of artificial glass refined through special processes to remove impurities. This material is widely used in watch manufacturing, particularly in mid-range watches.
It ranks between Level 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning that while it scratches more easily than sapphire glass, it still offers very good protection against the occasional friction and impacts of daily use.
The greatest advantage of mineral glass lies in its balanced performance. It provides good scratch resistance while offering better impact resistance than sapphire glass. When subjected to impact, mineral glass is less likely to shatter completely, making it an ideal choice for sports watches and timepieces meant for daily wear.
Sapphire Glass: Top-Tier Protection with Superior Scratch Resistance
Sapphire glass is made from synthetic sapphire, with aluminum oxide as its primary component. This material is second only to diamond in hardness, reaching Level 9 on the Mohs scale.
This extreme hardness makes sapphire glass virtually impervious to scratches from everyday objects—only diamonds or specialized tools can mark its surface.
While sapphire glass excels in scratch resistance due to its high hardness, this comes at the cost of reduced toughness: when subjected to strong impacts, sapphire glass is more prone to cracking compared to mineral glass. This explains why many high-end luxury watches use sapphire glass—it not only offers the best protection but also enhances the watch’s sense of luxury and value.
Direct Comparison: Choosing the Right Material for You
To more clearly illustrate the differences between the two materials, here is a comparison of their core characteristics:
| Characteristic | Mineral Glass | Sapphire Glass |
| Mohs Hardness | Level 5-6 | Level 9 |
| Scratch Resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Impact Resistance | Good | Fair (More prone to shattering) |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Common Uses | Mid-range watches | High-end luxury watches |
How to Choose a Watch Crystal for Your Lifestyle
Ultimately, which crystal material to choose depends on your daily activities, budget, and aesthetic preferences.
If you work outdoors or are a sports enthusiast, frequently in environments where impacts are likely, then Mineral Glass might be the wiser choice. Its better impact resistance allows it to withstand rougher treatment.
If you pursue ultimate elegance and a perpetually new appearance, or if your watch is for formal occasions and pairing, the scratch-free nature of Sapphire Glass will keep your watch looking new for a long time. Explore the Aierswatch collection of Sapphire Glass Watches to discover designs that stand the test of time.
For budget-conscious consumers, Mineral Glass offers excellent value for money—providing reliable protection at a more accessible price point. Browse our Full Watch Collection to find the perfect accessory that fits your budget without compromising on style.
Care Tips: Extending the Life of Your Watch Crystal
Regardless of which crystal material you choose, proper care can extend its service life and preserve its appearance:
1. Regular Cleaning: Gently wipe the crystal with a soft microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints and dust.
2. Avoid Extreme Conditions: Do not expose your watch to chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can damage the crystal or its coatings.
3. Proper Storage: When not worn, store the watch in its original box or a soft pouch.
4. Timely Repair: If the crystal gets damaged, send it to a professional repair center immediately.
No matter which material you ultimately choose, Aierswatch offers a rich variety of styles to meet your needs. Mineral Glass models provide reliable protection at an affordable price, while Sapphire Glass models guard your investment with near-perfect scratch resistance.
Explore the Full Aierswatch Collection to discover the perfect balance of style and function, and find the ideal timepiece to accompany you through life’s various moments.
Post time: Nov-12-2025
