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How To Tell If A Diamond Is Real – Expert Advice

Diamonds are real gemstones, not fake. They are a type of mineral known as a crystalline form of carbon, and they are the hardest natural substance on Earth. Fake diamonds, also known as cubic zirconia or moissanite, are made from different materials and are not as hard or valuable as real diamonds.

What to look out for to make sure your diamond is real

There are several things you can look for to determine if a diamond is real or fake. Here are a few tips:

Look for a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This will ensure that the diamond has been professionally evaluated and graded.

Check the diamond’s weight. Real diamonds are denser than fake diamonds, so they will feel heavier for their size.

Look for a hallmark or stamp on the diamond. This should include the diamond’s carat weight, cut, and other details.

Examine the diamond’s cut and clarity. Real diamonds will have a high level of cut and clarity, while fake diamonds may have visible inclusions or imperfections.

Use a diamond tester to verify the diamond’s authenticity. This is a device that uses thermal conductivity to determine if a stone is a real diamond.

Important Note – This article is a general guideline. It’s important to note that these are just a few guidelines and that there is no definitive way to tell if a diamond is real or fake without the help of a professional gemologist. If you are in doubt, it’s always best to have the diamond evaluated by a reputable gemological laboratory.

Testing Mounted Diamonds

It can be more difficult to test a mounted diamond to determine if it is real or fake, as the setting can sometimes interfere with the testing process. Here are a few tips for testing a mounted diamond:

Use a diamond tester. This is a device that uses thermal conductivity to determine if a stone is a real diamond. To use a diamond tester on a mounted diamond, carefully place the tester’s probe on the diamond through the setting. Be careful not to damage the setting or the diamond.

Look for a hallmark or stamp on the diamond. This should include the diamond’s carat weight, cut, and other details. A diamond that is mounted in a piece of jewelry should have a hallmark or stamp indicating that it is a real diamond.

Check the diamond’s weight. Real diamonds are denser than fake diamonds, so they will feel heavier for their size. You can compare the weight of the mounted diamond to the weight of other known diamonds to see if it is consistent with a real diamond.

Examine the diamond’s cut and clarity. Real diamonds will have a high level of cut and clarity, while fake diamonds may have visible inclusions or imperfections. Try to view the diamond from different angles to see if there are any imperfections that would indicate that it is not a real diamond.

Testing Unmounted Diamonds

It is generally easier to test an unmounted diamond to determine if it is real or fake. Here are a few tips for testing an unmounted diamond:

Use a diamond tester. This is a device that uses thermal conductivity to determine if a stone is a real diamond. To use a diamond tester on an unmounted diamond, carefully place the tester’s probe on the diamond. Be careful not to damage the diamond.

Look for a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This will ensure that the diamond has been professionally evaluated and graded.

Check the diamond’s weight. Real diamonds are denser than fake diamonds, so they will feel heavier for their size. You can compare the weight of the unmounted diamond to the weight of other known diamonds to see if it is consistent with a real diamond.

Examine the diamond’s cut and clarity. Real diamonds will have a high level of cut and clarity, while fake diamonds may have visible inclusions or imperfections. Try to view the diamond from different angles to see if there are any imperfections that would indicate that it is not a real diamond.

Testing Professionally

If you are unsure whether a diamond is real or fake, the best way to test it is to have it evaluated by a professional gemologist. A gemologist is a trained expert in the field of gemology, which is the study of gemstones. A gemologist will have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to accurately determine if a diamond is real or fake.

Here are a few steps to follow when testing a diamond professionally:

Contact a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and schedule an appointment to have your diamond evaluated.

Bring your diamond to the appointment, along with any documentation or information you have about the diamond. This may include a certification, a receipt, or a description of the diamond’s characteristics.

The gemologist will carefully examine the diamond using a variety of tools and techniques, such as a diamond tester, a microscope, and a loupe (a small magnifying glass).

The gemologist will evaluate the diamond based on its characteristics, such as its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. They will also compare the diamond to known standards and reference materials to verify its authenticity.

The gemologist will provide a written report detailing their findings and conclusions. This report will include a detailed description of the diamond and its characteristics, as well as an assessment of its authenticity.

It’s important to note that not all gemologists or gemological laboratories are equally qualified or reputable. It’s always best to research and choose a laboratory that has a good reputation and is accredited by a professional organization, such as the GIA.

How can I tell if a diamond is real at home?

There is no definitive way to tell if a diamond is real or fake without the help of a professional gemologist. However, there are a few things you can do at home to check if a diamond is real or fake. Here are a few tips:

Use a diamond tester. This is a device that uses thermal conductivity to determine if a stone is a real diamond. To use a diamond tester, carefully place the tester’s probe on the diamond. If the tester indicates that the stone is a real diamond, there is a good chance that it is authentic. However, it’s important to note that some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also pass this test, so it’s not a definitive method.

Check the diamond’s weight. Real diamonds are denser than fake diamonds, so they will feel heavier for their size. You can compare the weight of the diamond to the weight of other known diamonds to see if it is consistent with a real diamond.

Examine the diamond’s cut and clarity. Real diamonds will have a high level of cut and clarity, while fake diamonds may have visible inclusions or imperfections. Try to view the diamond from different angles to see if there are any imperfections that would indicate that it is not a real diamond.

Look for a hallmark or stamp on the diamond. This should include the diamond’s carat weight, cut, and other details. A diamond that is mounted in a piece of jewelry should have a hallmark or stamp indicating that it is a real diamond.

Weight and size

While it is true that the weight of a diamond can be an indication of its authenticity, it is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because different factors, such as the diamond’s cut, clarity, and shape, can affect its weight. For example, a 5mm round diamond may weigh anywhere from 0.10 to 0.90 carats, depending on its specific characteristics.

In addition, some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can be made to have a similar weight to real diamonds. Therefore, it is not recommended to rely solely on the weight of a diamond to determine its authenticity.

Fog Test

The fog test is a common method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the fog test, you will need to hold the diamond in front of your mouth and breathe on it. A real diamond will disperse the fog quickly, while a fake diamond will hold the fog for a longer period of time.

However, it’s important to note that the fog test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also pass the fog test. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the fog.

The Line Test 

The line test is a common method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the line test, you will need to draw a single black line on a piece of paper and place the diamond on top of it. A real diamond will make the line appear to disappear, while a fake diamond will not affect the line.

This is because real diamonds have a high level of refraction, which means that they are able to bend and refract light in a specific way. When light passes through a real diamond, it is split into different colors, which can cause the line to appear to disappear. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, do not have the same refractive properties, so the line will remain visible.

However, it’s important to note that the line test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also pass the line test. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the light.

Magnifying Glass

Using a magnifying glass, or loupe is a common method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform this test, you will need to hold the diamond up to a magnifying glass and carefully examine it for any imperfections or inclusions. Real diamonds will have a high level of clarity, with few or no visible inclusions or imperfections. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, may have visible inclusions or imperfections that are visible through the magnifying glass.

However, it’s important to note that using a magnifying glass is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also have a high level of clarity and may not show any visible inclusions or imperfections when viewed through a magnifying glass. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the clarity of the diamond.

Black Light Test

The black light test is a common method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the black light test, you will need to hold the diamond under a black light and observe the way it reacts to the light. Real diamonds will not fluoresce, or glow, under a black light. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, may fluoresce or glow in different colors, such as blue, yellow, or green.

This is because real diamonds do not contain any impurities or defects that would cause them to fluoresce under a black light. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, may contain impurities or defects that cause them to fluoresce under a black light.

However, it’s important to note that the black light test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, will not fluoresce under a black light. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the light.

Facet Doubling

Facet doubling is a term that refers to the way in which light reflects off the facets of a diamond. When viewed from certain angles, a real diamond will have a single reflection off each of its facets. This is because the facets are cut and polished in a specific way that allows light to pass through the diamond and be reflected in a specific pattern.

Fake diamonds, on the other hand, may have multiple reflections off their facets. This is because the facets are not cut and polished in the same way as real diamonds, and may not be symmetrical or uniform. As a result, light passing through the diamond will be reflected in multiple directions, causing the appearance of multiple reflections off the facets.

To check for facet doubling, you can hold the diamond at different angles and observe the way light reflects off its facets. If you see multiple reflections off the facets, it may be an indication that the diamond is fake. However, it’s important to note that this is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. Some fake diamonds may not exhibit facet doubling, and the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the light.

Thermal Test

The thermal test is a method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the thermal test, you will need to carefully apply heat to the diamond and observe how it reacts to the heat. Real diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, so they will quickly dissipate heat and return to their original temperature. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, are poor conductors of heat and will take longer to dissipate heat and return to their original temperature.

However, it’s important to note that the thermal test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also pass the thermal test. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the heat.

UV Fluorescence

UV fluorescence is a phenomenon that occurs when a diamond is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Real diamonds will typically fluoresce, or glow, in different colors when exposed to UV light. The color of the fluorescence depends on the specific characteristics of the diamond, such as its size, cut, and clarity.

Fake diamonds, on the other hand, may not fluoresce at all when exposed to UV light. This is because fake diamonds do not have the same chemical properties as real diamonds, and may not contain the impurities or defects that cause fluorescence.

To check for UV fluorescence, you can hold the diamond under UV light and observe how it reacts to the light. If the diamond fluoresces in a specific color, it may be an indication that it is a real diamond. However, it’s important to note that this is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. Some fake diamonds may fluoresce under a UV light, and the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the light.

Loupe

A loupe is a small, portable magnifying glass that is often used by gemologists, jewelers, and other professionals to examine diamonds and other gemstones. A loupe is typically held in the hand and used to magnify the surface of a diamond, allowing the user to see its cut, clarity, color, and other characteristics in greater detail.

To use a loupe, you will need to hold it up to your eye and carefully examine the diamond. You may need to move the loupe around to see different parts of the diamond, and you may need to adjust the focus to see the details clearly.

A loupe can be a useful tool for examining diamonds and other gemstones, but it is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. Some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can have a high level of clarity and may not show any visible inclusions or imperfections when viewed through a loupe. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the clarity of the diamond.

Sparkle Test

The sparkle test is a common method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the sparkle test, you will need to hold the diamond up to a light source, such as a lamp or a window, and observe how it sparkles. Real diamonds are cut and polished in a specific way that allows them to sparkle and shine, while fake diamonds may not have the same sparkle and shine.

However, it’s important to note that the sparkle test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also sparkle and shine, and may not be distinguishable from real diamonds based on their sparkle alone. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the sparkle of the diamond.

Based on Diamond Setting

The setting of a diamond can be a useful indicator of its authenticity, but it is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. A real diamond will typically be set in a high-quality setting that is designed to showcase the diamond’s beauty and protect it from damage. This may include a prong setting, a bezel setting, or a pave setting, depending on the style of the jewelry.

Fake diamonds, on the other hand, maybe set in lower-quality settings that are not as durable or attractive. These settings may not be as well-made or well-designed, and may not provide the same level of protection for the diamond.

To check the setting of a diamond, you can carefully examine it to see if it is well-made and securely mounted in the jewelry. You can also compare the setting to known examples of high-quality diamond settings to see if it is similar in style and quality.

However, it’s important to note that the setting of a diamond is not a definitive indicator of its authenticity. Some fake diamonds may be set in high-quality settings, and some real diamonds may be set in lower-quality settings. 

Water test 

The water test is a common method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the water test, you will need to fill a glass with water and carefully drop the diamond into the water. Real diamonds are denser than fake diamonds, so they will sink to the bottom of the glass. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, are less dense than real diamonds, so they will float on the surface of the water.

However, it’s important to note that the water test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also sink to the bottom of the glass. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the density of the diamond.

Heat Test

The heat test is a method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the heat test, you will need to carefully apply heat to the diamond and observe how it reacts to the heat. Real diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, so they will quickly dissipate heat and return to their original temperature. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, are poor conductors of heat and will take longer to dissipate heat and return to their original temperature.

However, it’s important to note that the heat test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also pass the heat test. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the heat.

Dot Test

The dot test is a common method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. To perform the dot test, you will need to place a small dot of newspaper or a dot of ink on a piece of paper and hold the diamond over the dot. A real diamond will magnify the dot, making it appear larger than it actually is. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, will not magnify the dot, and the dot will appear the same size as it did on the paper.

This is because real diamonds have a high level of refraction, which means that they are able to bend and refract light in a specific way. When light passes through a real diamond, it is split into different colors, which can cause the dot to appear magnified. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, do not have the same refractive properties, so the dot will remain the same size.

However, it’s important to note that the dot test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also pass the dot test. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the light.

Scratch Test

The scratch test, also known as the Mohs hardness test, is a method that is often used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. The Mohs hardness scale is a scale that is used to measure the hardness of minerals, and diamonds are the hardest mineral on the scale, with a Mohs hardness of 10.

To perform the scratch test, you will need to find a mineral with a known Mohs hardness and attempt to scratch the diamond with it. If the diamond is real, it should not be scratched by the mineral, as its hardness is higher than the hardness of the mineral. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, maybe scratched by the mineral, as they are not as hard as real diamonds.

However, it’s important to note that the scratch test is not a definitive method for determining if a diamond is real or fake. This is because some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, can also pass the scratch test. In addition, the test may not work well for diamonds that are mounted in jewelry, as the setting can interfere with the hardness of the diamond.

Using a Diamond Tester

A diamond tester is a device that is used to determine if a diamond is real or fake. A diamond tester uses specialized technology to analyze the electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, or other properties of a diamond to determine its authenticity.

To use a diamond tester, you will need to hold the diamond in the tester and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. The tester will then analyze the diamond and provide a reading that indicates whether it is a real diamond or a fake diamond.

Diamond testers can be useful tools for determining the authenticity of a diamond, but they are not perfect. Some fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, may be able to pass a diamond tester, and the tester may not be able to accurately evaluate diamonds that are mounted in jewelry.

Best practices to ensure you buy a real diamond

If you are looking to buy a real diamond, there are a few best practices that you can follow to ensure that you are getting a high-quality, authentic diamond.

First, it is important to do your research and educate yourself about diamonds. This will help you to understand the different characteristics of diamonds, such as their cut, clarity, color, and carat weight, and will enable you to make an informed decision when choosing a diamond.

Next, it is important to shop from reputable and trusted sources. This may include established jewelers, online retailers, or other trusted sources that have a proven track record of selling high-quality, authentic diamonds. Avoid buying diamonds from sources that you do not trust, as they may be more likely to sell fake or low-quality diamonds.

In addition, it is also a good idea to get a diamond certificate or grading report from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). A diamond certificate or grading report provides detailed information about a diamond’s characteristics, including its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight, and can help to verify its authenticity.

Finally, it is also a good idea to have the diamond evaluated by a professional gemologist before you buy it. A gemologist will have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to accurately determine if a diamond is real or fake, and can provide you with valuable insights and advice to help you make an informed decision.

Overall, by following these best practices, you can ensure that you are buying a real diamond that is high-quality, authentic, and worth the investment.

Frequently asked questions about Diamond Clarity 

How to test if a diamond is synthetic? 

To determine if a diamond is synthetic, or lab-created, you will need to have it evaluated by a professional gemologist. A gemologist will use specialized equipment and techniques to analyze the diamond and determine its authenticity.

Real diamonds, also known as natural diamonds, are formed over millions of years deep within the earth’s crust. They are created by the extreme heat and pressure that exists at these depths, and they are mined from the earth using specialized equipment.

Lab-created diamonds, on the other hand, are created in a laboratory using advanced technology. They are grown from a tiny seed of diamond, and they are able to mimic the conditions that exist deep within the earth’s crust to create diamonds that are virtually identical to natural diamonds.

Lab-created diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, and they are virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds. However, they are typically less expensive than natural diamonds, and they are considered to be a more environmentally-friendly option.

To determine if a diamond is natural or lab-created, a gemologist will use specialized equipment and techniques to analyze the diamond’s properties. This may include using a diamond tester, a microscope, or other specialized tools to evaluate the diamond’s characteristics and determine its authenticity.

What is the difference Between Diamonds and White Sapphires?

Diamonds and white sapphires are both clear, colorless gemstones that are often used in jewelry. However, there are some key differences between the two that can help you to distinguish between them.

One of the biggest differences between diamonds and white sapphires is their hardness. Diamonds are the hardest mineral on the Mohs hardness scale, with a hardness of 10. This means that diamonds are extremely resistant to scratching, chipping, and other types of damage. White sapphires, on the other hand, have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, which means that they are slightly less resistant to damage than diamonds.

Another difference between diamonds and white sapphires is their refractive index or the way in which they bend and refract light. Diamonds have a high refractive index, which means that they are able to split light into different colors, creating a characteristic sparkle and shine. White sapphires, on the other hand, have a lower refractive index, which means that they do not have the same sparkle and shine as diamonds.

In addition, diamonds and white sapphires also differ in their price. Diamonds are typically much more expensive than white sapphires, due to their rarity and the difficulty of mining and cutting them. White sapphires, on the other hand, are more abundant and less expensive than diamonds.

Overall, diamonds and white sapphires are both beautiful and valuable gemstones, but they have some key differences that can help you to distinguish between them.

Do fake diamonds still sparkle?

Fake diamonds, or diamond simulants, are not real diamonds and do not have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as real diamonds. As a result, fake diamonds may not sparkle in the same way as real diamonds.

Fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, are created in a laboratory using advanced technology. They are designed to mimic the appearance of real diamonds, but they are not the same as real diamonds.

Fake diamonds may sparkle and shine, but they do not have the same level of sparkle and shine as real diamonds. This is because fake diamonds do not have the same refractive index as real diamonds, which means that they do not bend and refract light in the same way.

In addition, fake diamonds may also have visible inclusions or imperfections that can interfere with their sparkle and shine. Real diamonds are formed deep within the earth’s crust and are subjected to extreme heat and pressure, which creates a high level of clarity and purity. Fake diamonds, on the other hand, are created in a laboratory and may not have the same level of clarity and purity.

Overall, fake diamonds may sparkle and shine, but they do not have the same level of sparkle and shine as real diamonds. If you are looking for a diamond that sparkles and shines, it is best to choose a real diamond that has been certified by a reputable gemological laboratory.

What does a real diamond look like in sunlight?

A real diamond will sparkle and shine in the sunlight, thanks to its unique optical properties. When light passes through a real diamond, it is bent and refracted in a specific way that creates a characteristic sparkle and shine.

In sunlight, a real diamond will appear to have a brilliant white sparkle, with flashes of rainbow colors that can be seen when the diamond is rotated. This is known as the diamond’s fire, and it is one of the key characteristics that set a real diamond apart from a fake diamond.

Fake diamonds, or diamond simulants, do not have the same optical properties as real diamonds. As a result, they may not sparkle and shine in the same way as real diamonds in the sunlight. Fake diamonds may appear dull or lifeless, and may not have the same level of sparkle and shine as a real diamond.

To ensure that you are getting a real diamond that sparkles and shines in the sunlight, it is important to buy from a reputable and trusted source, and to have the diamond evaluated by a professional gemologist. A gemologist will have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to accurately determine if a diamond is real or fake.

Will a real diamond scratch a mirror?

A real diamond is the hardest mineral on the Mohs hardness scale, with a hardness of 10. This means that a real diamond is extremely resistant to scratching, chipping, and other types of damage.

In general, a real diamond will not scratch a mirror, as the hardness of a mirror is much lower than the hardness of a diamond. The typical hardness of a mirror is around 5.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, which means that it is much softer than a diamond and will not be able to scratch it.

However, it’s important to note that the hardness of a mirror can vary depending on the type of mirror and the materials it is made from. Some mirrors may be made from harder materials, such as glass or metal, and may have a higher hardness than a typical mirror. In these cases, a real diamond may be able to scratch the mirror, depending on the relative hardness of the two materials.

Overall, while a real diamond is unlikely to scratch a mirror, it is not impossible. It is best to avoid using a diamond to scratch a mirror, as this can damage both the diamond and the mirror.

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