Real Diamond vs. Fake Diamond: How to Tell if a Diamond Is Real

Diamonds are one of the hardest and longest-lasting minerals on Earth, which makes them a fitting symbol of eternal love. They are integral to engagements, weddings, and many other memorable moments. Unfortunately, simulated diamonds and alternative stones continue to flood the wedding ring market, so ensuring your diamond is the real deal is more important than ever. Whether you're shopping for an engagement ring, gift, or an investment, knowing how to detect fake diamonds will save you from a costly mistake and disappointment. This guide explores the common types of fake diamonds, the tests to detect authenticity, and why lab grown diamonds are among the best and most sustainable choices.

What Are Fake Diamonds Made Of?

Fake diamonds can look convincing to the untrained eye. These imposters are made from materials designed to mimic the brilliance and beauty of natural diamonds. Here are the most common materials used to create fake diamonds:

Glass 

Glass stones are inexpensive because they are easy to manufacture. Although they can entice you with a convincing sparkle under certain lighting conditions, they lack the durability and brilliance of real diamonds. They are also susceptible to scratches, and over time, they will lose their clarity.

Cubic Zirconia (CZ)

Cubic zirconia is the most well-known diamond imposter. CZ is a lab-created product known for its clarity and affordability. It easily mimics a diamond's sparkle, which makes it so convincing. However, it is heavier and less durable than real diamonds. While it is an "affordable" substitute, it does not have the same longevity as a natural diamond.

Moissanite 

Moissanite is another popular diamond alternative. The naturally occurring crystal can be rare to find, making almost all of the moissanite on today’s market man-made. This gemstone exhibits a rainbow-like brilliance, which differs from a diamond's subtle sparkle. Although it is strong enough for everyday wear, it's not as hard as a diamond.

White Sapphire 

White sapphires, both lab and natural gemstones, can resemble diamonds. However, they lack the desirable fire and brilliance of genuine diamonds. They often appear cloudier or milky.

White Topaz 

White topaz is another natural stone used as a diamond alternative. While affordable, it scratches easily and can dull over time.

Strontium Titanate 

Strontium titanate is also a simulant most commonly used in costume jewelry. It offers exceptional brilliance and fire but is much softer than a diamond. 

How to Detect Fake Diamonds

What is the best way to detect a fake diamond when shopping? Although specialized methods are used by professionals, testing a diamond's authenticity doesn't always require professional tools or expertise. Here are some effective methods you can use to determine whether a diamond is real or fake:

What Real Diamonds Look Like 

First, it's essential to know the three key attributes that authentic diamonds possess: brilliance, fire, and scintillation. To illustrate this, imagine a diamond as ice reflecting sunlight. Brilliance refers to the bright white light reflecting off the diamond's surface, while fire describes the array of colors that the diamond disperses. Scintillation is the sparkle that occurs as the diamond catches and reflects light. Keep these three characteristics in mind while shopping for a diamond.

The Fog Test 

If the stone passes your initial visual inspection, proceed with the fog test to help confirm its authenticity. Hold the diamond close to your mouth and breathe on it. The moisture and warmth from your breath will create a slight fog on the surface. If the mist dissipates quickly and the diamond clears up, it is most likely a real diamond— a fake diamond will remain foggy for a few seconds.

The Water Test 

This test isn't practical to perform while in a store, but it can be useful if you decide to buy loose stones or inherit a diamond. To conduct the test, drop the stone into a glass of water. Real diamonds will sink to the bottom due to their density, while many fake diamonds will either float or sink slowly.

The Refractivity Test 

A diamond's distinctive sparkle results from its refractivity, which is the ability to bend or change the direction of light as it passes through. Place the diamond on a newspaper or any text. If you can clearly read the letters through the stone, it's a counterfeit. Real diamonds scatter light, making it difficult to see the text underneath.

The Sparkle Test 

When exposed to light, real diamonds emit a dazzling white light ( remember brilliance, fire, and scintillation?). In contrast, counterfeits lack the remarkable sparkle synonymous with authentic diamonds. Even Cubic zirconia can't produce that bright, white sparkle! Instead, it produces a noticeable rainbow effect.

The Weight Test 

This test requires a scale for accurate results. Fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, are generally heavier than real diamonds of the same size. This test can be useful if you have access to an accurate scale.

The Scratch Test — Use With Caution 

Diamonds are among the hardest materials on Earth and can scratch nearly any surface. However, using diamonds for this purpose can damage the surfaces of softer materials, so it is not recommended for valuable items.

Get the Diamond Professionally Appraised 

If none of these tests offer a definitive answer, it's best to consult a professional jeweler or gemologist. They use specialized tools to confirm authenticity.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Fake?

A common misconception is that lab grown diamonds are not true gemstones, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. The only difference is their origin.  These diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technology. Lab grown diamonds offer an ethical and sustainable alternative to mined stones. They are just as real, durable, and brilliant, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Shop Ethically and Shine Bright

Whether purchasing a new piece of jewelry or evaluating a family heirloom, knowing how to distinguish between a real diamond and an imposter is essential for making informed decisions. Ready to explore high-quality, lab grown diamond engagement rings? Visit Plum Diamonds to discover ethically sourced, stunning options for every occasion.