Real Diamond vs Fake Diamond: Key Differences Explained

There is something about diamonds that feels concrete, promising, and everlasting. The way it reflects light, creating a precise glow, is unmatchable. In a world where every tiny crystal or look-alike is pretending to be the real one. It is important to know how to identify real diamond.

You know diamonds are forever, but only if they are the real ones. Only a true diamond would maintain its shine and performance to oblivion. If you are buying a diamond for the first time or considering investing in one, you need to understand the rarity and craftsmanship of a real one.

Wondering how to tell if a diamond is real? Read on to find out.

What Makes a Diamond Real

A diamond is a stone that is formed with the influence of extreme heat and pressure under the depths of the earth for billions of years. It is the hardest substance on our planet, and its distinct attributes, such as its composition and structure, make it one of a kind.

The answer to the question of what makes a diamond real can only be understood by those who are aware of its brilliance. It is the intensity or sharpness with which the white light is reflected. It also creates subtle sparkle and rainbow colours, known as the diamond's fire. A diamond’s signature glow is its unique identity.

Diamond’s thermal conductivity is another factor which is a tell-tale sign whether a diamond is real or not. Real ones disperse heat instantly, unlike their imitators. What makes one diamond different from another? Slight inclusions and imperfections introduced in them during the process of their making are what make every real diamond unique.

Common Types of Fake Diamonds

Diamonds are so exclusive that it is not only hard to find them but also to afford them. That does not reduce its market demand. This phenomenon gave rise to fake diamonds being floated in the market. Some of them are as follows:

Cubic Zirconia: It is one of the substitutes for the real diamond, but its soft sparkle gives it away. The refraction of zirconia is more glass-like compared to the brilliance of the diamond.

Moissanite: This element solves the problem of refraction as it reflects sharp light similar to a real diamond. However, it differs in structure as well as optical properties.

White Sapphire: These natural gemstones closely resemble real diamonds. But it lacks the fire that naturally occurring diamonds are known for. White sapphire appears subdued and milky in comparison.

Glass and Crystal Stone: Other look-alikes include glass and crystal stone. Their shine fades with time, and they are less durable. They also offer low clarity and finish.

Simple Tests to Identify Real Diamonds

A real diamond can only be identified by professionals, but you can also perform some diamond authenticity tests by yourself. Some of them are as follows:

The Fog test

Blow on the diamond for a while. A real diamond transmutes heat instantly; the fog would clear soon, leaving it sparkling as ever.

The Water Test

Real diamonds sink because of their carbon composition. Fake ones start floating after a while.

The Sparkle Test

Real ones emit a brilliant sparkle with subtle flashes of rainbow. You would be blinded by the shine of a real diamond.

The Reading Test

It is hard to read a real diamond while fake one’s act as a mirror.

The Setting Check

Diamonds attached to a jewellery piece are easy to check. They would either be attached to a gold or platinum band. Cheap settings mean a non-authentic stone.

Importance of Diamond Certification

When fake diamonds are floating in the market, it is important to understand the value of gemstone authentication so you know you are investing your money in the right place.

Real diamonds come with an official gemological report from the Gemological Institute of America or the International Gemological Institute. Thus, verifying the cut, clarity, colour and specific carat of the diamond.

Certification is not only significant for ensuring you put your money in the right place but also for understanding its true value. Thus, ensuring the quality you are paying for matches the promise of the diamond you are buying.

Certified diamonds are graded on different levels of inspection, so you can be educated on the jewel that you are planning to invest in, thus making an informed decision.

Where to Buy Authentic Diamond Jewellery

Always buy diamond jewellery from a trusted source, or risk losing diamonds. A jeweller who has a reputation for selling quality and certified diamonds. Do your research, then visit the jeweller to buy certified diamond jewellery.

Do not forget to take all the information while buying the diamond. That includes the required documents and certifications relevant to diamonds and the jewellery as a whole.

If you need to exchange, sell, or consider a buy-back option in the future, make sure you are aware of all the policies and have the necessary documents.

When you are investing in a promise, only shop certified diamond rings, so you can be confident in your decision.

FAQs

How can you tell if a diamond is real?

You can do some tests at home, such as a sparkle test, a fog test, and a density inspection, to determine whether the stone is true or not. But the most reliable way is only through certification from trusted labs.

What are fake diamonds called?

Fake diamonds are known as simulants. Some of them are cubic zirconia, moissanite, or white sapphires.

Do real diamonds sparkle differently?

Yes, real diamonds emit a blinding shine and subtle rainbow flashes.

What certification should a real diamond have?

A real diamond should come with a certificate from a lab like the Gemological Institute of America or the International Gemological Institute.

Where can I buy certified diamonds?

You can buy certified diamonds from trusted and reputable jewellers. They will provide you with the necessary documentation and certificates to ensure you have made the right decision.