1. an instrument for measuring the hardness of materials, especially minerals
Usage: technical; geology

Examples

• The geologist used a sclerometer to test the hardness of the rock sample.
• The sclerometer reading indicated that the mineral was softer than expected.
• Laboratory technicians calibrated the sclerometer before beginning the hardness tests.
• The sclerometer is an essential tool for identifying unknown minerals in the field.
• Different types of sclerometers are used depending on the material being tested.
• The sclerometer measurement helped classify the specimen according to the Mohs scale.