How to Tell if your Diamond is Fake

In the glistening world of fine jewelry, distinguishing genuine diamonds from imitations can be a daunting task. Whether you’re an avid collector or a first-time buyer, ensuring the authenticity of your gems is crucial to creating a robust and high-quality collection. From simple at-home tests to professional appraisals, there are several ways to determine if your diamonds are the real deal. At Northeastern Fine Jewelry in New York, our expert staff is dedicated to helping you find exquisite pieces crafted only from natural, conflict-free diamonds. Let us guide you through the process of verifying your gems, so you can wear your jewelry with confidence and pride.

Check the Setting

One effective way to verify your diamond ring's authenticity is by examining the mount and setting. This simple inspection can provide valuable clues about whether your ring features genuine, high quality materials or low-quality imitations. Start by looking inside the ring's band to identify the material used. Markings such as 10k, 14k, and 18k indicate different types of gold used on the band, while PT refers to platinum. Numbers like 585, 770, 900, and 950 also denote the presence of platinum or gold— both high-quality, sturdy materials. Be wary of inscriptions like “C.Z.,” which stands for cubic zirconia, indicating a fake, low quality stone. 

The Water Test

Verifying your diamond ring's authenticity can be done easily with an at-home water test. Genuine diamonds are especially dense, which causes them to sink when placed in water. While this is bad news if you lose your jewelry at the pool, this is good to know while keeping an eye out for fakes. In contrast to real diamonds, a fake stone will float at the water’s surface. To perform this test, simply fill a glass with water and gently drop the loose diamond into it. This simple test leverages the unique density of diamonds to help distinguish them from imitations. If the diamond sinks to the bottom, it is likely authentic. However, if it floats or hovers, the stone is likely a fake. 

The Fog Test

One simple method to verify your diamond ring's authenticity is the fog test. The fog test is a quick and easy way to assess whether your diamond is real or fake. By gently breathing on the diamond to create a light fog, you can observe how quickly the heat and condensation dissipate. Genuine diamonds— known for their excellent heat conductivity— will cause the fog to vanish almost immediately. In contrast, a fake stone will retain the fog for several seconds before it clears. This difference occurs because natural diamonds efficiently conduct and disperse heat, preventing moisture from lingering on their surface. 

Test Its Reflectivity

To verify your diamond ring's authenticity, you can also test its reflectivity. A diamond’s reflectivity encompasses its brilliance and fire. Brilliance refers to the white light reflected from the diamond, while fire refers to the dispersion of colored light. By holding the diamond under a light source like a lamp, you can observe how it reflects light. A genuine diamond will exhibit spectacular brilliance and fire, reflecting both white and colored light vividly. If the diamond appears dull or lacks this vibrant interplay of light, it is likely a fake. This simple test leverages the unique reflective properties of real diamonds to determine authenticity, but it's essential to know what you’re looking for. 

Trust Diamond Professionals

Seeking the assistance of a diamond expert is highly recommended for gem verification. Jewelers like those on our team here at Northeastern Fine Jewelry have the specialized tools and knowledge required to conduct a thorough examination of your precious stones. Using equipment like microscopes, loupes, and diamond testers, experts can accurately determine whether a diamond is real or fake. Their trained eyes can also identify specific characteristics and flaws that are unique to genuine diamonds, and can create accurate appraisals of your diamond’s value based on its physical qualities. Consulting a professional ensures a reliable and definitive assessment, giving you confidence in the authenticity of your diamond.

Explore Beautiful Diamond Jewelry at Northeastern Fine Jewelry

At Northeastern Fine Jewelry, you can find stunning fine jewelry crafted from the most exquisite natural diamonds. With three showrooms across New York state— Albany, Glen Falls, and Schenectady— we offer a wide selection of fine jewelry and engagement rings to suit every taste. Our extensive inventory of loose diamonds and custom design services ensure that each piece is unique, made to your specifications, and of the highest quality. Whether you are looking for the perfect engagement ring or a special gift, our expert staff is here to help. Visit our showroom or request an appointment today to experience the brilliance of Northeastern Fine Jewelry.