Difference Between Original Diamonds and Fake Diamonds

Diamonds have fascinated humanity for centuries with their unmatched brilliance and durability. However, the market today is filled with both genuine and counterfeit diamonds, making it crucial to understand how to differentiate between the two. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the characteristics of original diamonds versus fake diamonds, and provide insights into various methods for identifying genuine gems.

1. Understanding Diamonds

Diamonds are a form of carbon with atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. This structure gives diamonds their exceptional hardness and brilliance. Natural diamonds are formed under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle, while synthetic diamonds are created in laboratories using various methods.

2. Types of Fake Diamonds

There are several types of fake diamonds, each mimicking the appearance of genuine diamonds to varying degrees. Some common types include:

• Cubic Zirconia (CZ): A synthetic gemstone made from zirconium dioxide, cubic zirconia is one of the most popular diamond simulants. It is colorless, hard, and inexpensive.

• Moissanite: A naturally occurring silicon carbide, moissanite is a popular alternative to diamonds. It has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which gives it a different sparkle.

• Glass: Simple glass can be cut and polished to resemble a diamond, but it lacks the brilliance and hardness of a real diamond.

• Synthetic Diamonds: Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds but are created in a controlled environment.

3. Visual Differences

Original diamonds and fake diamonds can often be distinguished by their visual properties. Key differences include:

• Brilliance: Genuine diamonds have exceptional brilliance due to their high refractive index. They reflect light in a way that fake diamonds cannot. For instance, moissanite often exhibits a rainbow-like sparkle due to its higher refractive index.

• Fire: The term "fire" refers to the dispersion of light into various colors. Real diamonds have a distinctive fire, which is different from that of cubic zirconia or moissanite.

• Clarity and Color: Authentic diamonds come with a range of colors and clarity levels. Fake diamonds may have inclusions or imperfections that are not typical of real diamonds.

4. Physical Properties

To differentiate between original and fake diamonds, consider the following physical properties:

• Hardness: Diamonds are the hardest known natural material, scoring a 10 on the Mohs scale. Cubic zirconia and moissanite are less hard, scoring lower on the scale. A simple scratch test can reveal these differences.

• Weight: Diamonds have a specific gravity of about 3.52. Moissanite and cubic zirconia are generally heavier than diamonds, which can be detected using a gemstone scale.

• Thermal Conductivity: Diamonds are excellent thermal conductors. A diamond tester that measures thermal conductivity can help identify whether a stone is a real diamond or a simulant.

5. Testing Methods

Several testing methods can be used to determine whether a diamond is real or fake:

• Gemstone Tester: A handheld device that tests for thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity can help differentiate diamonds from simulants.

• Magnification: Using a jeweler's loupe or microscope, you can examine the stone for specific inclusions or markings that are typical of natural diamonds.

• Water Test: Diamonds have high density and will sink in water, unlike many fake diamonds that float.

• Fog Test: Breathing on a diamond will cause it to fog up briefly before clearing. This is because diamonds dissipate heat rapidly.

6. Professional Assessment

For a definitive evaluation, professional gemological assessment is recommended. Gemologists use advanced equipment to analyze diamonds' properties and can provide a certification report detailing the diamond's characteristics.

7. Price and Purchase Considerations

• Price: Genuine diamonds are generally much more expensive than fake diamonds. If a deal seems too good to be true, it may be worth questioning the authenticity of the diamond.

• Certification: Always purchase diamonds from reputable sources and ensure they come with certification from recognized gemological laboratories.

8. Conclusion

Understanding the differences between original and fake diamonds is essential for making informed decisions when purchasing or evaluating gemstones. By considering visual properties, physical characteristics, and employing testing methods, you can better distinguish genuine diamonds from their imitations. For the most accurate results, professional gemological services are invaluable in ensuring the authenticity of a diamond.