Determining
if a diamond is real or fake can be done through various methods. Here are some
common ways to check the authenticity of a diamond
Professional
Appraisal: Seek the expertise
of a certified gemologist or jeweler who can examine the diamond and provide an
official appraisal. A professional can use specialized tools and knowledge to
verify the authenticity and grade of the diamond.
The Fog
Test:Breathe on the
diamond as you would with a mirror. A real diamond disperses heat quickly, so
the fog from your breath should dissipate almost instantly. In contrast, a fake
diamond or cubic zirconia will retain the fog for a longer time.
Transparency
Test:Place the
diamond flat side down on a newspaper or a piece of paper with text. A genuine
diamond will refract light in a way that makes the text underneath impossible
to read. In contrast, some fake diamonds may allow you to see the text due to
their different light-handling properties.
The Water
Test:Drop the
diamond into a glass of water. A real diamond will sink to the bottom due to
its high density. Many fakes, like cubic zirconia, are less dense and will
float or suspend in the water.
Heat
Conductivity Test: Hold the diamond between your fingers and breathe on it to create condensation.
Then, touch the diamond to see how quickly it regains clarity. A genuine
diamond will disperse heat rapidly and clear quickly, while most fakes will
retain the condensation longer.
Scratch
Test:Diamonds are
the hardest natural substance and can only be scratched by another diamond.
However, this test is not recommended for valuable diamonds, as it may damage
the stone.
Ultraviolet
Light Test:A real
diamond may exhibit a blue fluorescence when exposed to long-wave ultraviolet
light. This fluorescence is not always present in natural diamonds, but it's a
characteristic that can be checked using specialized equipment.
It's
important to note that some fake diamonds, such as moissanite or lab-grown
diamonds, can closely resemble real diamonds and may not be easily detected by
these simple tests. When in doubt, consulting a professional gemologist or
using advanced gem-testing equipment is the most reliable way to authenticate a
diamond's identity and characteristics.