Know Your Bling: Essential DIY Tests for Real vs. Fake Diamonds

The allure of a dazzling diamond is undeniable, and the desire to ensure the authenticity of such precious jewels is paramount. In a world where imitations like glass, paste, other gems, or crystal can sometimes be passed off as the real deal, it's essential to have the knowledge and tools to distinguish genuine articles from clever counterfeits. Fortunately, there are several straightforward at-home tests that can help you verify the authenticity of your diamond jewelry. With the help of our experts, we will explore these tests, enabling you to gain confidence in the authenticity of your cherished diamonds.

The Sink Test

This test is perhaps one of the easiest and safest to conduct at home. All you will need is a cold glass of water. Allow it to settle to avoid any misleading updrafts. When you drop your diamond into the glass, observe its behavior. A genuine diamond will quickly sink to the bottom due to its high density, which is one of its distinguishing characteristics. In contrast, popular diamond substitutes like glass or quartz will sink much more slowly or even float because they are less dense than authentic diamonds. This straightforward test can offer a valuable initial clue about the authenticity of your precious gemstone, helping you distinguish real diamonds from convincing impostors.

The Heat Test

Another reliable method for verifying the authenticity of your diamonds is the heat test, a technique that will undoubtedly expose any fake diamond. To conduct this test, simply use a lighter to heat the diamond for about 40 to 60 seconds. Following this, swiftly drop the heated stone into a glass of ice-cold water. The temperature change will subject the gemstone to thermal shock, a process that can shatter fake diamonds due to their inability to handle rapid temperature fluctuations. Authentic diamonds, on the other hand, will remain unscathed. It's important to note, however, that this test should be approached with caution, as it can potentially damage certain diamond enhancements or fracture-filled diamonds.

The Black Light Test

Using a black light is a great and harmless method to put your diamonds to the test. When you expose a diamond to ultraviolet light, also known as a black light, authentic diamonds typically emit a vibrant or deep blue fluorescence. This natural blue glow is a result of trace elements in the diamond's composition and is considered a strong indicator of its genuineness. In contrast, fake diamonds often reveal subtle hints of yellow, green, or even gray under the same black light, failing to produce the distinctive blue fluorescence that is characteristic of real diamonds. You may also be able to find some imperfections in your diamond, revealing that it is likely bona fide.

The Mirror Test

A straightforward but reliable method to ascertain the authenticity of your diamonds is the mirror test. To perform this test, use a mirror and attempt to scratch it with the diamond in question. If the mirror shows any signs of scratching while the diamond remains unscathed, you can rest assured that you are in possession of a genuine diamond. The unmatched hardness of diamonds renders them virtually impervious to scratches, making this test a powerful tool in distinguishing real diamonds from impostors. Remember that, due to their hardness on the Mohs scale, diamonds should not be scratched by any other material.

Visit Your Local Jeweler

While all of these at-home tests are convenient, if you’re still in doubt about the authenticity of your diamonds, or are unable to extract the diamonds in question from a jewelry piece it is set in, it's always a wise decision to seek the expertise of professionals. Local jewelers like Rogers Jewelry Co. are a trusted resource in this regard with expert gemologists on staff who possess the knowledge and experience needed to accurately appraise your diamond jewelry. These skilled professionals utilize specialized equipment and industry-standard testing methods to thoroughly assess the authenticity of your gemstones, leaving no room for doubt. Although lab-grown diamonds have many similar properties to natural diamonds, our trained professionals will always be able to identify a real diamond versus a lab-created diamond 100% of the time through our tried and true processes. By entrusting your diamonds to the capable hands of Rogers Jewelry Co., you not only gain peace of mind but also access to invaluable insights and guidance regarding your precious gemstones.

Discover Authentic Diamond Jewelry at Rogers Jewelry Co.

Shopping at a reputable jewelry store, such as Rogers Jewelry Co., is your safeguard against any concerns of being misled or given an inauthentic gem when in pursuit of exquisite diamond jewelry. With a legacy spanning decades and a strong presence in California and Nevada via our seven jewelry stores, Rogers Jewelry Co. is a trusted name in the industry. When you shop with us, you can be confident that you are investing in genuine, meticulously crafted diamonds. To embark on a journey of finding the perfect diamond jewelry and to experience the unparalleled expertise of our team, we invite you to schedule an appointment at your nearest Rogers Jewelry Co. location today.