How To Tell If A Diamond Is Real?

Whether you’re considering buying a diamond or just curious about that gem on someone else’s ring, figuring out if a diamond is real can be quite the detective work. Especially with all the flooded fakes in the market. But fear not, my gem-loving friend! Let’s dive into some sparkling knowledge on how to tell if a diamond is real at home through various tests and tricks.

How To Tell If A Diamond Is Real: DIY Tests and Tricks

Wondering if your diamond is authentic? These quick DIY tests and tricks can help you spot a real gem from a fake with ease! And if you're curious about how different diamond shapes affect their appearance, check out our detailed comparison of radiant vs emerald cut diamonds.

1. The Water Test: Sink or Swim?

• Grab a drinking glass and fill it with water.
• Gently place the diamond into the glass.
• Watch closely: A genuine diamond will sink to the bottom due to its density. A fake stone might float underneath the surface or awkwardly bob at the top. 

2. The Fog Test: Breathe and Observe

• Hold the diamond ring between two fingers.
• Breathe on it with a puff of air to fog it up.
• If a light fog forms on the diamond and then quickly clears up, you’ve got yourself a real gem. Real diamonds are heat conductors, so they disperse that fog promptly. If it takes a while for the fog to vanish, it’s likely a phony.

3. Check for Inclusions and Flaws: Perfection isn’t always the answer.

• Use a magnifying glass to inspect the diamond. 
• If a diamond shows no apparent flaws or inclusions at this level of scrutiny, it’s considered flawless which means it's likely a fake. Real diamonds often have natural imperfections or inclusions, whereas synthetic diamonds and imitations are usually flawless.

4. The UV Light Test: Disco Diamonds?

• Find a UV light (you know, the kind that turns your teeth neon at the club).
• Shine it on your diamond.
• If it glows blue, you’re in business! Some diamonds will emit a blue fluorescence under UV light, and that’s a good sign. But if it’s throwing a rave party with rainbow colors, it might be something else.

5. Check the Setting & Mount

• If your diamond is already nestled in a ring, take a closer look at the setting and mount. Real diamonds are often set in high-quality metals like platinum or gold. The craftsmanship matters too. Check for precision and attention to detail. Mighty gems require firmness and strength. You won’t find a cheap metal holding a genuine diamond.

6. Heat the Stone and Observe

• Heat the stone gently using a hairdryer on low or a lighter.
• Then, plunge it into cold water.
• If it shatters like a dramatic movie scene, it’s probably not a diamond. Real diamonds are tough cookies. They won’t crack under pressure. 

7. Scratch Test: Will it crack?

• Try to scratch the surface of a mirror or glass with the diamond.
• Results: Diamonds are one of the hardest substances and should scratch glass easily. However, this test is not recommended as it could damage the stone.

8. Using a flashlight: The newspaper trick.

• Grab your flashlight and find a dimly lit spot. 
• Place the diamond you’re investigating over a piece of text or a newspaper.
• Now, switch on that flashlight and shine it through the diamond.
• If you can see the text through the diamond, proceed with caution. It might be a fake! Real diamonds refract light, creating that mesmerizing sparkle. Fake ones? Well, they often lack this brilliance. 

Keep in mind that these at-home tests may only be partially accurate. For a precise diamond test, consult a professional gemologist. They have the experience, knowledge, and fancy equipment like diamond testers to confirm whether your sparkler is legit or not.

FAQ:

Q. How to tell if a diamond is real or fake?

Use the fog test: breathe on the stone—real diamonds disperse fog quickly. Check for imperfections with a loupe; real diamonds usually have inclusions. For certainty, consult a jeweler for professional tests like thermal conductivity.

Q. How to tell a real diamond by eye?

Real diamonds sparkle more due to their high refractive index, often show small inclusions, and are set in quality metals like gold or platinum. If the stone appears flawless, it might be fake. Professional verification is recommended.

Q. How to test a raw diamond at home?

Try the scratch test on glass—real diamonds may scratch it. Drop the stone in water; real diamonds sink due to their density. The fog test can also help, as real diamonds quickly dissipate heat.

Q. Does a real diamond shine in the dark?

No, real diamonds don’t shine in complete darkness. However, some may fluoresce under UV light, glowing faintly. They sparkle in well-lit areas by reflecting and refracting light.

Q. Can a fake diamond sink in water?

Yes, a fake diamond can sink in water, depending on its material. Sinking alone doesn’t confirm authenticity, as simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite also sink. Other tests are needed for accuracy.