How to Tell If Diamonds Are Real: A Complete Guide
Diamonds are one of the most coveted and expensive gemstones in the world. But how can you be sure that the diamond you’re purchasing is real? With so many fake diamonds in the market, the last thing you want is to spend a lot of money on a fake. In this article, we will explore several methods that will help you determine if diamonds are real or fake.
Physical Characteristics of Real Diamonds vs. Fake Diamonds
The physical characteristics of a diamond are important to consider when attempting to identify its authenticity. Real diamonds differ from their imitations in several distinct ways.
Air bubbles and scratches are some of the significant differences between fake and real diamonds. A fake diamond is likely to have air bubbles or noticeable scratches due to its inferior quality. Additionally, diamonds possess a characteristic cut and shape. High-quality diamonds will have clean cuts, reflecting light in a unique way.
It’s worth noting that you can’t determine whether a diamond is real or fake with the naked eye. Examining the diamond under a microscope will reveal some unique physical differences that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
Methods Used by Jewelers to Test Diamond Authenticity
Jewelers use several methods to determine whether a diamond is real or fake. It’s important to note that these methods require specialized equipment and training. Here are some of the methods used.
Magnification is one of the commonly used methods. A jeweler will examine the diamond under magnification to identify the characteristic inclusions and blemishes in a diamond that are unique to real diamonds.
Thermal conductivity is another method that jewelers use to determine the authenticity of a diamond. A diamond’s thermal conductivity is significantly higher than that of any diamond imitation.
In addition to magnification and thermal conductivity, jewelers will also use ultraviolet light to identify certain characteristics unique to real diamonds. The light will show fluorescence in some real diamonds.
Simple At-Home Testing for Diamond Authenticity
There are several at-home methods that you can use to tell if diamonds are real. However, these methods aren’t definitive, and you shouldn’t solely rely on them to determine a diamond’s authenticity. Here are some methods you can use.
One method is using water and a newspaper. Place the diamond over a dot printed in a newspaper and try to read it through the diamond. If you can’t see the dot, the diamond is real.
You can also use a basic testing kit that comes with a diamond tester to determine if your gemstone is real. A tester kit can detect whether the gem is a diamond or another type of gemstone.
Red Flags When Purchasing Diamonds From Potentially Sketchy Sellers
If the diamond seller makes unrealistic promises, such as a ‘huge discount on a high-quality diamond, there is a high likelihood that they’re selling a fake diamond. Any vague descriptions of diamond quality or a lack of certification should be red flags. It’s also essential to research the seller and purchase from a reputable seller.
Q&A-Style Interview With a Diamond Expert
To get an expert’s opinion on diamond authenticity, we sat down with a diamond expert and asked him a few questions.
Q: How long should a diamond’s shine last?
A: A diamond’s shine should last for eternity if properly cared for.
Q: Are laboratory-made diamonds real?
A: Yes, laboratory-made diamonds are real diamonds; the only difference is how they were made.
Q: How to spot high-quality diamond imitations?
A: High-quality diamond imitations will have a similar cut and shape as real diamonds, but they lack the distinct inclusions and blemishes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, exploring the physical characteristics of real diamonds versus fake diamonds, understanding the methods used by jewelers to test diamond authenticity, using simple at-home testing methods, and being able to spot red flags when purchasing is an excellent start to determine whether diamonds are real or fake. With all the information provided in this article, you can now make an informed diamond purchase.
