Diamonds are so popular and valuable, that they are classified among the most precious gemstones on the planet. Be it as a consumer, an inheritor, or a diamond owner who wants to know how genuine the gem is, it is useful to learn how to verify the diamond at home. First of all, it is necessary to note that if you want to get the most accurate results, it is recommended to turn to a professional and ask for an appraisal, however, certain tests can be performed at home to detect the authenticity of a diamond. We will describe these approaches and also, offer you detailed instructions on how to perform the techniques here in this post. You can follow the steps accurately and know if the diamond is real or fake.
Read More: Your Guide to Diamonds
Gold Bold Beauty Diamond Ring
1. The Water Test
True Brilliance of clever imitation
One of the easiest and quickest ways to check if your diamond is real is the water test.
Steps:
- Fill a glass with water.
- Gently drop the diamond into the glass.
Observation:
A real diamond will sink to the bottom due to its high density.
A fake diamond or a simulant like cubic zirconia will float or stay suspended in the middle.
Read More: Investing in Lab Grown Diamond is Good
2. The Fog Test
Unmask the real gem
Diamonds have excellent heat conductivity, which can be tested using the fog test.
Steps:
Hold the diamond between two fingers and breathe on it to create a light fog.
Observation:
A real diamond disperses heat quickly, so the fog will clear almost immediately.
A fake diamond will remain foggy for a few seconds longer.
3. The Scratch Test
True beauty or Crafted illusion
Diamonds are the hardest natural material on Earth, making them difficult to scratch.
Steps:
- Use a piece of glass or a mirror.
- Gently scratch the surface with the diamond.
Observation:
A real diamond will scratch the glass or mirror without any damage to itself.
Be cautious with this test, as it can potentially damage both the diamond and the surface you're testing.
Read More: Lab-Grown Diamonds: Why Are They the Perfect Choice
4. The Loupe Test
Under the loupe, identify the real
A jeweller’s loupe is a small magnification device used to inspect gemstones.
Steps:
- Purchase or borrow a jeweller’s loupe.
- Examine the diamond closely under the loupe.
Observation:
Real diamonds often have tiny imperfections, known as inclusions, and a slightly blurry edge due to their cut.
Fake diamonds or synthetic stones typically have a perfect appearance and sharp edges.
5. The Newspaper Test
Can you spot the difference?
The way a diamond refracts light can be tested using printed text.
Steps:
Place the diamond, flat side down, on a piece of newspaper with a lot of text.
Observation:
If you cannot read the text through the diamond and it appears blurry, it's likely a real diamond due to its high refractive index.
If you can easily read the text through the stone, it might be a fake.
6. The UV Light Test
A Tale of a real & a fake diamond
Some diamonds exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet (UV) light.
Steps:
- Use a UV light or black light in a dark room.
- Expose the diamond to the UV light.
Observation:
Many diamonds will show a blue fluorescence under UV light.
While not all real diamonds fluoresce, if the stone displays a blue glow, it’s a good indication of authenticity. However, the absence of fluorescence doesn’t necessarily mean the diamond is fake.
7. The Sparkle Test
Be your gemstone expertise
Diamonds have a unique way of reflecting light.
Steps:
Hold the diamond under a normal lamp or direct sunlight.
Observation:
A real diamond will produce a brilliant sparkle, showing shades of white (known as brilliance) and colorful flashes (known as fire).
Fake diamonds typically have less sparkle and may appear duller.
Learn how to spot the real diamond with GIVA
Gold Spectacular Diamond Ring
GIVA believes it is crucially important to realize that these do-it-yourself methods are not perfect and cannot guarantee the identification of fake diamonds. While one can identify an artificial stone by touch or by the look of it, the best way to know if a stone is real or fake is to take it to a gemologist. A certified appraiser is better placed to perform a detailed analysis of the diamond using refined tools and methods and thus you will own the right details regarding the precious stone.
However, GIVA would like to point out that by using the given simple manipulation that could be made in the comforts of one’s home, one can get an idea as to whether the diamond jewellery you own is original or faux.