The Way To Figure Out A True Diamond From A Fake

ShoppingFashion / Style

  • Author Ian Wright
  • Published November 4, 2009
  • Word count 659

Getting a professional to test the diamond is the simplest solution to the problem of determining whether a diamond is real or fake. It takes more than a jewelers' loupe for clever amateurs to assess a stone. Even trained professionals are finding it difficult to determine a "real" diamond.

There are some regulations of the thumbs.. If you are thinking of buying a diamond already in a setting, examine the setting and look for a metal stamp inside the band that will show the grade of gold, i.e., 10k, 14k, 18k, or Pl (platinum), as if you see these markings indicating a quality setting, it increases the odds that the stone mounted in it is real.

You can closely watch and observe the corners, edges and girdle-band of the cut stone, with the help of a handy magnifying glass or a jeweler's loupe If the edges are soft and rolled, it is an indication of a fake one. You can also achieve this effect using a clear, smooth girdle at the junction of the facets around the heart of the stone.

Use a jeweler's loupe to check the stone for minute fractures, little flecks, and inclusions. These were created naturally and are difficult to copy. Minor flaws that are all to commonly allowed through cannot be easily spotted by an amateur, and natural diamonds are most valued when they are least flawed.

A common indicator is weight. Substitutions for real diamonds use many materials that are heavier or lighter and the most common substitute, cubic zirconium, is actually a bit heavier than the real gem. In order to compare diamonds, you require a precision scale and samples of real diamonds.

It is a bad idea to use your diamond to cut glass. When checking jewelry for content do not use acid tests primarily used on metals. Don't give in to your curiosity and try to smash a diamond because it will crush because it is a crystalline material. Since a pure diamond shifts the heat fast enough to clear the stone, you can fog the stone and see if you can look at it. It's only a hint and even that is not fail proof. Be careful about composition diamonds, which have a base of one material and a table top made of diamonds, this will pass a diamond tester, but be relatively worthless.

A jeweler can tell you whether or not you got ripped off when you bought your "diamond". That will mean you have to choose your jewelers carefully, and then ask them for paperwork for each gem. (stones are individual and documentation goes a long way in establishing its nature). When you put your trust in a reputable, professional jeweler, who works with reliable sources, you will find a person who can be relied upon for a quality grade of appraisal, help in making a selection and reliability.

Although chain jewelry stores are reputable firms, you may wish to consult a gemological laboratory when you desire an independent appraisal. These example businesses show the positive aspects of mass production and distribution as well as the negative aspects. Chain jewelry stores while competent in themselves still will not give you the expertise of a higher end store or assessment business.

Make sure to take the time to learn the background, licensing, and experience of the assessor after checking online or in the yellow pages for advertisements. The best indicators of a skilled jeweler, is someone who is licensed, a journeyman from a traditional trade program, or someone who used to be a stone dealer.

Be sure that they test the stone in your presence if you are bringing it in. This is to escape swapping from dishonest jewelers.. If you are turned down, turn around and just walk out. Ask for full documentation if you are purchasing a stone. To know the real diamond is very difficult and even professionals think twice and look three times.

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