How to Tell if a Diamond is Real – 7 Techniques for Identifying Fake Diamonds
There are several ways to tell if a diamond is real, but it’s important to keep in mind that some of these methods may not be completely accurate. After these tests, you can identify a fake diamond but you can’t 100% trust these tests to say that a diamond is real. In my opinion, it’s always best to have a diamond professionally evaluated by a gemologist to confirm its authenticity.
What are 7 Techniques for Identifying Fake Diamonds
1 – Look for a Certificate
Certification always works and it is one of the most reliable ways to determine if a diamond is real. There’re reputable gemological laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). The certificate will provide detailed information about the diamond’s characteristics, including its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight, and can confirm that the diamond is real.
2 – The Visual Test
The visual test is another simple and easy way to determine if a diamond is real or fake. However, for this method, you have some knowledge about diamonds before. Take a magnifying glass and examine the diamond carefully.
- Real diamonds are generally free of imperfections and inclusions that are visible to the naked eye while fake diamonds may have visible imperfections or inclusions.
- Real diamonds have a characteristic fire and brilliance that is caused by the way light is refracted within the diamond. On the other side, fake diamonds may not have the same fire and brilliance as real diamonds.
- You can look at the color of the diamond. Real diamonds are typically clear or have a yellow or brown tint, while fake diamonds may have more yellow or gray color.
2 – The Hardness Test
Diamonds are the hardest known substance, so if a diamond is real, it should be able to scratch certain materials that are softer than it. For this test, you will need a set of reference materials that are known to be harder or softer than a diamond. Then you carefully scratch the surface of the diamond with each of the reference materials in turn. If the diamond is able to scratch the reference material, it is likely that the diamond is real. If the reference material scratches the diamond, it is likely that the diamond is fake.
3 – Diamond Tester
A diamond tester is a device that uses conductivity to determine if a stone is a diamond or a simulant (a diamond look-alike). These devices are generally accurate, but they can be fooled by certain types of simulants, such as moissanite.
4 – Check the Price
If the price of a diamond seems too good to be true, it’s possible that the diamond may not be real. While it’s possible to find good deals on genuine diamonds, if the price is significantly lower than what you would expect for a diamond of similar quality, it’s worth considering the possibility that the diamond may be fake.
5 – The Fog Test
The Fog Test is a simple and easy way to determine if a diamond is real or fake. Hold the diamond in front of your mouth and exhale gently onto the diamond. A real diamond will disperse the breath quickly and the fog will dissipate rapidly. A fake diamond, on the other hand, will not disperse the breath as quickly and the fog will stay on the diamond for a longer time.
6 – Water Test
Easy peasy, have a glass of water, and drop the diamond into the water. Most of the fake diamonds either float or sink very slowly.
7 – Thermal Conductivity Test
Diamonds are excellent conductors of heat and for this test, you will need a thermal probe (a device that measures the temperature of an object). Touch the probe to the diamond and observe the temperature reading. If the diamond is real, the temperature will drop quickly. If the diamond is fake, the temperature will not change significantly.
What are the Characteristics of Fake Diamonds
Fake diamonds, also known as synthetic or lab-grown diamonds, are diamonds that are created in a laboratory rather than being mined from the earth. While synthetic diamonds may have some similar physical characteristics to natural diamonds, there are several key differences that can help you identify a fake diamond.
The Price of the Diamond
One of the most obvious differences between a fake diamond and a natural diamond is the price. Fake diamonds are typically much cheaper than natural diamonds, so if the price of a diamond seems too good to be true, it may be a fake.
Color of the Diamond
Another characteristic of fake diamonds is their color. Natural diamonds are typically clear or have a yellow or brown tint, while fake diamonds may have a more pronounced yellow or gray color. In addition, fake diamonds may also have imperfections or inclusions that are visible to the naked eye, while natural diamonds are generally clear and free of inclusions.
The Durability of the Diamond
Fake diamonds may also be less durable than natural diamonds. Natural diamonds are the hardest substance on earth, while fake diamonds may be more prone to scratching or chipping. Additionally, fake diamonds may not have the same fire and brilliance as natural diamonds, which can be an indication that they are not real.
What is Cubic Zirconia
Cubic zirconia, also known as CZ, is a synthetic gemstone that is created in a laboratory. It is made from zirconium dioxide, a mineral that is crystallized under high temperature and pressure to create a diamond-like gemstone.
Cubic zirconia is often used as a diamond simulant, meaning that it is designed to look like a diamond but is not a real diamond. It is typically much cheaper than a real diamond, and it is available in a wide range of colors and cuts.
Consequences of Buying a Fake Diamond
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Financial loss:
Financial loss is one of the most common consequences of buying fake diamonds. Real diamonds are valuable and chic but at the same time, it is a great investment. However, fake diamonds are typically much cheaper and do not have the same value. You can sell a real diamond for almost as the same price as you buy but fake diamonds are not like that.
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Emotional distress:
We have enough stress in our lives and no one wants to add another one by buying a fake diamond thinking that it is real. Many people, especially women attach sentimental value to their jewelry in general and think about getting a fake diamond for some occasional situations. That can be really devastating.
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Reputational damage:
Just imagine that your boyfriend proposes to you and the diamond on the engagement ring is fake! Then boom! Even if you don’t care about the diamond, that can damage his reputation.
What to do if You Already Bought a Fake Diamond
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Consult a professional jeweler:
Immediately find a professional jeweler and bring your diamond to him/her to check if it is real or fake. Of course, it is always better to check it before you buy because they can also provide information on the quality and characteristics of the diamond.
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Obtain a certification:
If the diamond is real, it should come with a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory. If there is no certification, it means you should be more careful.
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Review the purchase agreement:
Review the purchase agreement carefully. The agreement should clearly state the type and quality of the diamond that was purchased.
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Consider legal action:
If you already bought the diamond and realized that it is fake, consult with an attorney who can provide advice on your legal options.
Conclusion
Go ahead and give these methods a try—you just might find out that what you thought was fake really turns out to be a beautiful real diamond!
FAQ – How to tell if a diamond is real
Q: Is it possible to find a good deal on a real diamond?
A: Yes, it is possible to find good deals on real diamonds, but if the price of a diamond seems significantly lower than what you would expect for a diamond of similar quality, it’s worth considering the possibility that the diamond may be fake.
Q: Who is the best person who can determine if the diamond is real?
A: A gemologist who is a trained and certified expert in the identification, grading, and appraisal of diamonds and other precious stones. It’s a good idea to choose an accredited gemologist to ensure that you receive accurate and reliable evaluation services.
Q: Can I have my diamond ring evaluated by a gemologist personally?
A: Yes, you can have your diamond ring evaluated by a gemologist to confirm its authenticity and obtain detailed information about the diamond’s characteristics and value. During a gemologist evaluation, the diamond will be carefully examined using a variety of techniques and tools, including visual inspection, testing, and analysis.
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