Posted on May 30th, 2023.

Are you in the market for a stunning diamond but worried about falling victim to counterfeit gems? 

With the increasing availability of lab-grown diamonds and alternative gemstones like moissanite, it's become even more crucial to understand the subtle nuances that set a real diamond apart. 

In this blog post, we'll teach you how to tell if a diamond is real or fake and guide you through foolproof ways to spot the difference.

How to Spot Real Diamonds: The 4Cs

To differentiate between real and fake diamonds, you need to understand the characteristics that define a genuine diamond. The 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat—are the industry-standard metrics used to evaluate the quality of a diamond.

Cut

A real diamond is expertly cut to maximize its brilliance and reflect light in a captivating way. Look for precision in the cut, ensuring that facets are symmetrical and well-proportioned.

Color

Most diamonds possess a slight hint of yellow or brown. However, a genuine diamond will have minimal color, appearing nearly colorless or within the color range specified by reputable diamond grading scales.

Clarity

Diamonds contain natural internal flaws called inclusions and external blemishes. While real diamonds may have some imperfections, they are usually not visible to the naked eye. The higher the clarity grade, the fewer imperfections.

Carat

Carat refers to a diamond's weight, with one carat equal to 200 milligrams. Real diamonds come in a range of carat sizes, but it's important to note that carat weight alone doesn't determine a diamond's quality. 

Detecting Lab-Grown Diamonds

With advancements in technology, lab-grown diamonds have become a popular alternative to natural diamonds. These diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural ones but are created in a controlled environment. 

To identify lab-grown diamonds, keep the following factors in mind:

Price

Lab-grown diamonds are often more affordable than natural diamonds of similar quality. If the price seems too good to be true, it's worth investigating further.

Inclusions

Lab-grown diamonds typically have fewer or different types of inclusions compared to natural diamonds. A trained gemologist can examine the diamond under magnification to identify any distinguishing features.

Laser Inscriptions

Some lab-grown diamonds may have laser inscriptions on the girdle, indicating their origin. These inscriptions can be a helpful clue in determining if the diamond is natural or lab-grown.

Unmasking CVD Diamonds (Chemical Vapor Deposition)

In recent years, a new type of lab-grown diamond has emerged in the market known as CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) diamonds. These diamonds are grown in a laboratory using a process that involves depositing carbon atoms onto a diamond seed using a specialized chemical vapor deposition technique. 

While visually similar to natural diamonds, there are certain characteristics that can help you spot CVD diamonds:

Price

CVD diamonds are often priced lower than natural diamonds but higher than other lab-grown diamonds like those produced using High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) methods. If you come across a diamond that seems unusually inexpensive, it may be worth investigating its origin further.

Color and Clarity

CVD diamonds typically exhibit certain color and clarity characteristics that can be indicative of their synthetic origin. They often possess a slight grayish or brownish tint, and their clarity may show patterns of strain or internal growth features. However, it's important to note that these characteristics alone are not conclusive proof of a diamond being CVD-grown, as natural diamonds can also exhibit variations in color and clarity.

Laser Inscriptions

CVD diamonds are sometimes laser-inscribed with a specific identification number or logo to indicate their lab-grown origin. These inscriptions can be located on the diamond's girdle and can provide valuable information about its authenticity when examined under magnification.

Examination by a Professional

It's important to keep in mind that while CVD diamonds are lab-grown, they still possess the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds. This means that specialized equipment and expertise are necessary to distinguish them from natural diamonds accurately.

When purchasing diamonds, it is always advisable to rely on reputable jewelers and request proper certification from recognized gemological laboratories like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). These certifications provide assurance about a diamond's authenticity and can help you make an informed decision.

Spotting Moissanite

Another diamond alternative to be aware of is moissanite, a lab-created gemstone that closely resembles a diamond in appearance. 

While moissanite possesses its unique brilliance and fire, there are a few key characteristics that can help differentiate it from a real diamond:

Brilliance

Moissanite tends to exhibit more rainbow-colored flashes of light compared to diamonds, which tend to reflect white light.

Double Refraction

Unlike diamonds, moissanite has a higher refractive index, resulting in a double refraction effect when viewed under certain angles.

Hardness

Diamonds are known for their exceptional hardness, ranking as the hardest mineral on the Mohs scale. Moissanite is also relatively hard, but not as durable as a diamond.

The Importance of Seeking Professional Verification

When in doubt, seeking professional verification from a reputable jeweler or gemologist is always a wise decision. They have the expertise and tools necessary to accurately determine whether a diamond is real or fake. Professional jewelers can examine the diamond under magnification, use specialized diamond testing equipment, and perform various tests to authenticate its authenticity. They can assess the diamond's characteristics, such as its fluorescence, thermal conductivity, and response to ultraviolet light, to provide a definitive verdict.

Consulting with a professional not only ensures that you receive accurate information but also gives you the confidence to make an informed purchase. Reputable jewelers, like Quality Assured Jewelers LLC, have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect diamond that meets your preferences and budget .

Related: What Jewelry Does Not Lose Value?

Conclusion

In conclusion, distinguishing between real and fake diamonds requires an understanding of the 4Cs, the ability to identify lab-grown diamonds and alternatives like moissanite, seeking professional verification, and relying on trustworthy sources and certifications. By following these foolproof ways to spot the difference, you can make a confident and well-informed purchase when it comes to diamonds.

At Quality Assured Jewelers LLC, we are committed to providing exceptional jewelry and personalized service. 

If you have any questions or are looking for a genuine diamond or custom jewelry, we invite you to reach out to us at (405) 836-3447 or email us at [email protected]. 

Our experienced team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect diamond that meets your desires and ensures your satisfaction.