Guide to Diamond Authentication

Diamonds are gorgeous additions to jewelry or a beautiful way to start a new chapter with your partner. However, diamonds are still an investment, and you want to make sure that you are buying the real deal. To safeguard customers from such deceptions, our Wilson & Son Jewelers professionals have put together a comprehensive guide on testing diamonds for authenticity. This detailed list covers essential methods like examining clarity, assessing hardness, and evaluating light reflection to help distinguish genuine diamonds from imitations. With this trusted resource, buyers can confidently ensure their diamonds retain their worth for years to come. Wilson & Son Jewelers remains committed to providing the knowledge needed to make a truly informed investment.

Fog Test

One of the simplest ways to check a diamond’s authenticity is the fog test. Breathe on the stone like you would a mirror to create condensation. Since real diamonds disperse heat efficiently, the fog should disappear almost instantly. On the other hand, imitation stones, such as cubic zirconia, will hold the moisture for longer. This quick test gives an immediate indication of whether the diamond is real or a fake substitute.

Water Test

Another easy method to confirm a diamond’s authenticity is the water test. Fill a glass with water and gently drop the diamond into it. Due to their high density, real diamonds will sink to the bottom immediately. Fake diamonds, particularly lighter imitations like glass or quartz, tend to float or suspend in the water. While not foolproof, this method offers a fast way to spot a potential fake.

Scratch Test

Diamonds are one of the hardest materials on Earth, they can easily scratch glass without sustaining damage. Carefully perform the scratch test by rubbing the stone against a piece of glass. If the diamond leaves a mark but remains unscathed, it's likely genuine. Be cautious, though, as some high-quality fakes, like moissanite, are also hard and may scratch glass. This test works best when combined with other methods.

Light Reflection

One telltale sign of a real diamond is how it reflects light. When held under a direct light source, a genuine diamond will reflect both white and rainbow-colored light, giving it that signature sparkle. Fake diamonds, such as glass or quartz, tend to emit a duller, less vibrant reflection. Observing how the light interacts with the stone can reveal its authenticity, as true diamonds are known for their brilliant shine.

Magnification Check

Under a jeweler’s loupe or magnifying glass, a real diamond will reveal small imperfections or inclusions—natural traits that occur during its formation. These inclusions make each diamond unique. On the other hand, imitations are often flawless or show more uniform patterns of bubbles or lines. The magnification test can be especially useful as even the most convincing fake diamonds usually lack the intricate details found in natural stones.

Heat Conductivity Test

Real diamonds have exceptional heat conductivity, which means they disperse heat rapidly. Using a diamond tester, a small handheld device that measures thermal conductivity, can confirm if the stone is genuine. Authentic diamonds cool down almost immediately after being warmed while fakes, like cubic zirconia, retain heat longer. This professional-grade test is highly accurate to provide reassurance that the gem is a true diamond and not a lookalike.

Trust Your Diamonds to Wilson and Son Jewelers

At Wilson & Son Jewelers, we offer an exceptional selection of diamond jewelry from our Scarsdale jewelry store. Our in-depth diamond education resources help you make informed choices when selecting the diamond of your dreams. We also provide expert servicing and cleaning options to ensure your jewelry remains brilliant over time. For a truly personalized experience, we invite you to request an appointment with one of our team members for a one-on-one consultation tailored to your specific needs.