Diamonds are popular for investments, gifts, and collections. With its rarity and value, there’s no doubt why many people opt to keep buying more of it. Unfortunately, producers of fake diamonds are becoming more advanced and it can be difficult to identify what’s fake and what’s not.
So, before buying diamonds, you should know various ways to spot real vs. fake. These methods aren’t only helpful for buyers, but also if someone gave it to you as a gift or you’re investing in real diamonds.
Here are some ways you should try when distinguishing real and fake diamonds.
1. The Water Test
The water test is one of the most popular ways to know whether your diamond is fake or not. For instance, if you bought supposedly Argyle pink diamonds and you’re doubting their authenticity, you can try the water test.
If you want to try the water test, you’ll need a glass filled with water, then drop the diamond in it. If the diamonds sink immediately, it means it’s real. On the other hand, if the diamond slowly sinks or floats, it’s fake.
The water test can be your go-to method for making sure your diamonds are real.
2. The Fog Test
The fog test may not be the most sanitary method, but it works well. All you need to do is breathe on the diamond, just like what you do in a mirror. If the fog on the diamond disappears immediately, it’s real. On the other hand, if the fog stays for a few more seconds, it’s fake.
The effect of the fog on diamonds happens due to its thermal conductivity, or its ability to conduct heat. However, when conducting this method, ensure that you’re not in the middle of the store since most businesses won’t allow people to randomly breathe on the diamond they sell.
3. The Scratch Test
Diamonds are known as the hardest known material on earth, which is why the scratch test became popular. However, it’s not as recommended as the first two methods since it can still damage the diamond and the item you use to scratch it.
Meanwhile, if you’re brave enough to try this test, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t. All you need to do is get your diamond and scratch a piece of glass using it. If the glass has scratches, then you have a real diamond. Meanwhile, if the glass doesn’t have scratches, it’s not a real diamond.
4. The UV Light Test
The UV light test isn’t as effective as the other methods, but it can still work in other diamonds. However, if you have fancy-coloured diamonds like Argyle pink diamonds, this may not work as the test requires diamonds exhibiting blue light, which may not reflect in coloured ones.
Meanwhile, if you have a colourless diamond, place it under the UV light, wait for a blue fluorescence, and if it glows, the diamond is real and fake otherwise.
5. The Loupe Test
Usually, professional jewellery collectors and jewellers have access to loupes. A loupe is a type of magnifying glass specifically used for gemstones, such as diamonds. Using a loupe, you can easily differentiate the differences between real and fake diamonds. Real and lab-grown diamonds have imperfections and flaws. On the other hand, fake diamonds have smooth surfaces and round edges.
If you can’t differentiate the two, get a real diamond, and use it as a basis for this test. If you don’t have one, you can consult with a professional to have them test it for you.
6. The Refractivity Test
Are you looking for a simple and will guarantee that your diamond will not get damaged? You should try the refractivity test. In this method, you’ll just need a piece of paper with some text printed on it. Then, use the diamond as if it’s a magnifying glass. If you can see the text under the diamond, this means it’s fake. On the other hand, since a real diamond has a high refractive index, you won’t see the text under it.
7. The Expert’s Opinion
As mentioned, if you’re having doubts about your capabilities of distinguishing the differences between a fake and real diamond using the other methods, you can always consult with a professional jeweller.
Besides, having enough knowledge and experience in determining fake and real diamonds can guarantee more accurate results.
8. Certificates and Documentation
When you buy jewellery or loose diamonds, they usually come with documentation and certifications. So, always ask for a certificate of authenticity whenever you buy or invest in diamonds. No matter how expensive your diamonds are, the documentation is essential since it guarantees that the diamonds are real.
Final Thoughts
Knowing various methods of identifying real and fake diamonds can help you go a long way as an investor or someone who appreciates the beauty of sparkling stones. However, although these methods can help you guarantee the authenticity of the diamonds, you should still take extra precautions to prevent damaging them.