Comparison · Metals & Alloys
Chrome vs Tungsten
Chrome and Tungsten are easy to confuse because both are metals & alloys. Chrome is harder (Mohs 8.5) than Tungsten (Mohs 7.5), so Chrome will scratch Tungsten and not the other way round. It scratches glass, steel and even quartz; only harder gems will mark it. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Chrome and Tungsten
- Chrome is harder (Mohs 8.5) than Tungsten (Mohs 7.5), so Chrome will scratch Tungsten and not the other way round. It scratches glass, steel and even quartz; only harder gems will mark it.
- Streak color differs: Chrome leaves a silver-gray streak on unglazed porcelain, Tungsten leaves gray.
- Both look metallic, so compare color, tarnish and weight rather than shine.
- Tungsten feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 19.25 versus 7.2 for Chrome).
- They overlap in gray, but Chrome also comes in blue.
Chrome vs Tungsten properties
| Property | Chrome | Tungsten |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Metals & Alloys | Metals & Alloys |
| Mohs hardness | 8.5 | 7.5 |
| Luster | metallic | metallic |
| Streak | Silver-gray | Gray |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 7.2 | 19.25 |
| Crystal system | varies | varies |
| Common colors | Mirror silver, Blue-gray, Bright silver | Dark gray, Steel gray, Silver-gray |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $1–$200+ | $5–$600+ |
Which is more valuable?
Tungsten is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $60 against $20 for Chrome, and premium Tungsten can reach $600 or more.
About Chrome
Chrome is a bright chromium surface finish or chromium metal appearance, often seen on plated hardware, tools, vehicle parts, fixtures, and decorative objects.
About Tungsten
Tungsten is an extremely dense gray metal used in rings, weights, tools, electrodes, cutting materials, and high-temperature applications.
Chrome vs Tungsten FAQ
Is Chrome the same as Tungsten?
No. Both are metals & alloys, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Chrome is harder (Mohs 8.5) than Tungsten (Mohs 7.5), so Chrome will scratch Tungsten and not the other way round. It scratches glass, steel and even quartz; only harder gems will mark it.
How can you tell Chrome from Tungsten?
Chrome is harder (Mohs 8.5) than Tungsten (Mohs 7.5), so Chrome will scratch Tungsten and not the other way round. It scratches glass, steel and even quartz; only harder gems will mark it. Streak color differs: Chrome leaves a silver-gray streak on unglazed porcelain, Tungsten leaves gray. Both look metallic, so compare color, tarnish and weight rather than shine.
Which is harder, Chrome or Tungsten?
Chrome is harder: Mohs 8.5 against Mohs 7.5 for Tungsten.
Which is more valuable, Chrome or Tungsten?
Tungsten is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $60 against $20 for Chrome, and premium Tungsten can reach $600 or more.
