How to Tell if a Diamond Is Real: Expert Tips from Toronto Jewellers

 

How can you tell if a diamond is real?

If you’re unsure whether your diamond is real, there are a few reliable tests you can perform at home before taking it to a professional. The most common methods include the fog test, water test, and checking for imperfections with a magnifying glass. However, for absolute certainty, it’s best to visit a jewellery store in Toronto where experts use professional equipment like diamond testers and microscopes to verify authenticity.

What are the easiest ways to test a diamond at home?

If you want to check whether your diamond is real without special tools, try these simple tests:

The fog test

Breathe on the diamond like you would on a mirror. If it stays fogged up for more than a couple of seconds, it’s likely not real. A real diamond disperses heat quickly, so it won’t stay foggy for long.

The water test

Fill a glass with water and drop the diamond in. A real diamond will sink due to its high density, while a fake one, especially cubic zirconia, may float or stay suspended.

The sparkle test

Hold your diamond under a light source. A real diamond reflects both white light (brilliance) and colored light (fire), giving it an intense sparkle. Fake diamonds like cubic zirconia lack this depth of reflection.

Can a jeweller confirm if a diamond is real?

Yes, professional jewellers have tools like diamond testers, loupes, and microscopes to verify authenticity. Here are some methods they use:

• UV Light Test: Some real diamonds glow under UV light, typically blue. However, not all real diamonds fluoresce, so this is not a definitive test.
• Thermal Conductivity Test: Diamonds conduct heat efficiently, unlike most imitations. Professional diamond testers measure heat conductivity to determine authenticity.
• Electronic Conductivity Test: Moissanite, a common diamond alternative, has similar thermal properties but differs in electrical conductivity. A jeweller can use an electronic tester to differentiate between the two.
• Magnification Inspection: Real diamonds often have minor imperfections (inclusions), while fake stones may appear too perfect. A jeweller examines these under magnification.

How do lab-grown diamonds compare to real ones?

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds, making them difficult to distinguish without advanced testing. They typically cost 30–40% less than mined diamonds and are more sustainable. However, they still test as real diamonds using most methods. Only a jeweller with a specialized scanner can identify a lab-grown stone.

What are common diamond fakes?

Several materials mimic diamonds, but they each have distinct characteristics:

Can a diamond pass all home tests and still be fake?

Yes, high-quality diamond simulants like moissanite can pass most at-home tests. This is why it’s essential to have your stone checked by a professional jeweller. If you recently bought a diamond and want to ensure its authenticity, bring it to a jewellery store in Toronto for verification.

What should you do if you suspect your diamond is fake?

If you suspect that your diamond isn’t real, follow these steps:

1. Perform basic home tests like the fog and water test.
2. Examine it under a magnifying glass to check for inclusions.
3. Take it to a jeweller for professional testing.
4. Request a diamond certificate if buying from a store to confirm authenticity.
5. Consider getting an appraisal if your diamond is valuable.

How can you protect yourself from buying a fake diamond?

• Buy from a reputable store: Choose a trusted jewellery store in Toronto with a solid reputation and positive customer reviews.
• Request certification: Ensure your diamond comes with a certificate from GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or IGI (International Gemological Institute).
• Compare prices: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Inspect the diamond in person: Check for brilliance, clarity, and any imperfections.

What if your diamond gets damaged?

Even real diamonds can suffer chips or scratches over time. If your diamond jewelry needs fixing, consider jewelry repair in Toronto to restore its beauty and integrity. Professionals can polish scratches, re-tip prongs, and reset stones if needed.

Final thoughts

Knowing how to tell if a diamond is real is crucial when buying or inheriting jewelry. While at-home tests can offer some insight, professional testing at a jewellery store in Toronto is the most reliable way to confirm authenticity. If you need expert advice, visit Janine Jewels for diamond verification, repair, and other jewellery services.