How to Tell Real Diamonds are Fake?

It is as if the higher the value of an item, the easier it gets to fake it. From luxury, clothes turned to knock-offs, and branded shoes turned to imitations – it is only a matter of time that diamonds will be involved in the population (and it did).

Since diamonds belong to the category of high value-high demand, their price increases per annum (provided that its quality is well-taken care of); therefore, it is also hard to fake this stone and turn it into a jewelry piece. This made diamond and jewelry stores more cautious of their pieces; and is very strict in monitoring per diamond piece regarding their authenticity. If you are one of many people who wants to know how they can distinguish a fake and a natural diamond secondary to various reasons – here’s a few things that may help you.

1. Test the Density

Natural diamonds have a high density of up to 3530 kilograms per cubic meter, while Pure ones have 3520 kilograms per cubic meter. With this information, the weight of a diamond is immeasurable by palmar or hand distinction instead of water use. 

One may try this with a glass of drinking water and check if the diamond would either sink or float. Due to its high density, a natural diamond will sink; however, if the stone floats at the top of the drinking glass, it is affirmative that it’s a fake. 

2. Stone Strength and Durability

As per the Mohs Scale of Hardness, Diamonds are a 10 out of 10. This means that this stone can withstand any breakdowns and scratches (and can only be scratched by another diamond). To test its strength component, one can do a high heat test.

With a plyer or small tongs, hold the stone and put it against a live fire or in high heat for less than a minute. Afterward, immediately put the stone onto glass or bowl of cold water. The diamond should be able to withstand its reaction and remains unscathed. If the result shows otherwise and the stone began to shatter, it is highly a counterfeit.

3. Diamond’s Refractive Index

A refractive index of a diamond measures 2.417, indicative that it is 2.417 slower than the air whenever the light travels. This results in making the light scatter among different directions and fails to reveal any shadow or letters once checked. 

To test its refractive characteristic, one may place a bond paper of choice (any blank white canvas) and draw a dot with a pen (provided that the ink should be evident enough). Place the flat side of the stone onto the paper, and look down to its pointed edge. There should not be any reflection of the dot visible due to a natural diamond’s refraction qualities. If a circular review is recognizable – the diamond is a possible imitation.

ConclusionThese tests help determine whether a diamond stays true to its claims or is another stone curated with mimicry. This is not only for the benefit of a jeweler or an owner but most importantly, for the assurance that you have invested in a real one. For other jewelry and engagement rings, visit Luxury Diamonds Vancouver.