How to Determine a Fake Diamond
Diamonds are precious stones that are commonly replicated. Receiving or purchasing a diamond is always a special occasion, but if there is any doubt whether the diamond is real, you may not be comfortable with your purchase or gift. If you are the proud owner of a diamond but have some doubts as to its authenticity, take your diamond to a jeweler or try these simple tests at home. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
Testing the Diamond
-
1
Perform a "fog test." Hold the diamond up to your open mouth and breathe on the diamond. The diamond will fog up instantly. If the diamond stays fogged up for a few seconds, you will know it is fake. A real diamond will clear up instantly.
-
2
Use your magnifying glass or jeweler's loop to inspect the diamond. This will be easier if the diamond is "loose," or out of its setting. Real diamonds will have imperfections in its interior. If the diamond is flawless, it is probably a fake.
-
-
3
Clean the diamond before this last test. The diamond also needs to be loose for this test. Clean the diamond with soap or a mild detergent. You can either soak the diamond or use a soft bristle brush. Rinse the diamond under warm water and then pat it dry with a soft cotton cloth that will not leave any lint. Place the diamond on a newspaper with the point facing up. If you can read the newspaper through the diamond, it is fake. A real diamond will disperse the light and make the letters underneath it appear blurry.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you have performed all of these tests but still have some doubt, consult a jeweler for an expert opinion.
Do not try to scratch glass with your diamond to determine authenticity. You could damage the diamond in the process, and the test will not be conclusive as there are other stones that can scratch glass.
