When it comes to diamonds, authenticity is everything. Whether you’re investing in a diamond for an engagement ring, a special gift, or simply adding to your collection, knowing that the stone is genuine provides peace of mind and ensures you’re getting the value you expect. While a trained jeweler is the best person to authenticate a diamond, there are several methods you can use to check if a diamond is real or not. Here’s a guide to help you determine the authenticity of a diamond before you make your purchase.
The Water Test is one of the simplest ways to test a diamond’s authenticity at home. Fill a glass with water and carefully drop the loose stone into the glass. A real diamond, due to its high density, will sink to the bottom, while a fake diamond, such as cubic zirconia, is likely to float or hover in the middle of the glass. This quick and easy test can give you an initial indication, though it’s not foolproof.
Another popular method is the Fog Test. Hold the diamond between your fingers and breathe on it as you would a mirror or glass. A real diamond disperses heat quickly, so any fog from your breath should dissipate almost immediately. If the stone stays fogged up for a few seconds, it may not be a real diamond. This test works best on a clean diamond, so make sure the stone is free from oils and dirt before trying it.
Inspecting the Stone’s Setting and Mount can also offer clues about the diamond’s authenticity. Real diamonds are typically set in high-quality metals like gold, platinum, or white gold. Look for markings inside the band, such as “10K,” “14K,” “18K,” “PT,” or “Plat,” which indicate the type of metal. If the stone is set in a cheap metal or if there are no markings at all, the diamond may be fake.
The Light Test can help you observe how the diamond interacts with light. Hold the stone under a normal light source and observe the way it reflects light. A real diamond will sparkle with a mix of white light reflections (known as brilliance) and rainbow-colored light reflections (known as fire). If the stone has a lot of colorful reflections but lacks the white light sparkle, it might be a fake diamond like cubic zirconia.
For a more thorough examination, you can use a Magnifying Glass or Loupe to inspect the diamond. A real diamond often has small imperfections, known as inclusions, and these natural flaws can usually be seen under magnification. Lab-grown diamonds may also have inclusions, but they tend to be different from those found in natural diamonds. On the other hand, fake diamonds like cubic zirconia or moissanite are usually flawless. You can also look for sharp edges and well-defined facets, which are characteristics of a real diamond.
If you want a definitive answer, consider the Thermal Conductivity Test. Diamonds conduct heat better than almost any other material. A diamond tester, available from most jewelry stores, measures the rate at which heat moves through the stone. If the tester indicates high thermal conductivity, you likely have a real diamond. However, this test may not differentiate between a real diamond and moissanite, a diamond simulant with similar thermal properties.
Lastly, the Professional Appraisal is the most reliable way to confirm a diamond’s authenticity. A certified jeweler or gemologist can perform a series of tests, including using specialized equipment like a diamond tester, to verify if the stone is real. They can also provide a certificate of authenticity, which is especially important if you’re making a significant investment.
you At Johnston Jewelers, we understand the importance of knowing that your diamond is genuine. With over 50 years of experience, we offer expert appraisal services to ensure that every diamond we sell is authentic and of the highest quality. Whether you’re purchasing a diamond or want to verify the authenticity of a piece you already own, our knowledgeable team is here to assist you. Visit Johnston Jewelers for peace of mind and the assurance that your diamond is the real deal, crafted to shine for a lifetime.