I. Introduction
A diamond is not only a precious stone but also a significant investment. With the high value placed on diamonds, it is essential to know how to tell if a diamond is real. There are various tests to authenticate the authenticity of a diamond, and this article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to conduct these tests.
II. Using the Water Test
The water test is a simple technique that can help you tell if a diamond is real or fake. This test works by measuring the stone’s density, which is an essential characteristic of a diamond. To conduct the water test, fill a glass with water and drop the diamond in the water. If the diamond sinks to the bottom, it is real, but if it floats or stays on the water’s surface, it’s fake. This test works because diamonds are dense and will sink to the bottom of the water, unlike imitations such as glass or quartz.
III. Magnification Test
The magnification test involves examining a diamond’s internal aspects under a powerful magnifying tool. A jeweler’s loupe or microscope can be used to conduct this test by zooming in on the stone’s facets. A real diamond will display no noticeable blemishes or scratches. When under magnification, you can also observe a diamond’s natural inclusions, which are unique to each stone.
IV. Heat Test
The heat test is a safe technique to determine if a diamond is real. A fake diamond will typically crack under high temperatures, whereas a real diamond will not. To perform the heat test, heat up the diamond briefly using a lighter or torch for about ten seconds. Observe the diamond’s reaction; if it remains intact, it’s real, but if it disintegrates, it’s fake. However, it is essential to note that this test should be conducted with caution as exposing a diamond to high temperatures can damage it.
V. UV Light Test
A real diamond will emit a distinct blue fluorescence when exposed to UV light. The UV light test involves using a black light or UV lamp on the diamond. If the diamond appears to have a blue glow, it is real. If it does not, it’s fake. This test is due to the presence of boron and nitrogen within the diamond, which gives the stone its unique blue fluorescence.
VI. Weight Test
The weight test involves measuring the diamond’s weight or carat size. A real diamond will weigh less than a fake diamond of identical size and shape. This is because synthetic diamonds and imitations like cubic zirconia (CZ) are denser than real diamonds. To conduct the weight test, use a carat scale accurately to measure the diamond and compare it to the expected weight of a real diamond of similar size.
VII. Conductivity Test
By passing an electric current through a diamond, a conductivity tester can distinguish between a real and a fake diamond. A real diamond has high thermal conductivity. Therefore, the instrument registers a significant response as it passes through the stone. On the other hand, the conductivity tester will display little or no response when passed through a fake diamond. To conduct the test, you need to use an electrical conductivity tester that you can find in some jewelry stores.
VIII. Professional Certification
If you want absolute certainty, the best way to know if a diamond is real is through a professional gemologist’s certification. A reputable gemologist can provide a third-party evaluation of the diamond’s authenticity, which is essential when making a significant investment. You can find a list of certified gemologists on the Gemological Institute of America’s website.
IX. Conclusion
Knowing how to tell if a diamond is real using different tests is crucial when making a purchase. Authenticating diamonds helps you avoid being scammed and can give you peace of mind when investing in these precious stones. Using the methods described in this article can help you determine the authenticity of any diamond, but always remember that the best way to authenticate a diamond is through a professional gemologist’s certification.