HOW TO TELL IF A DIAMOND IS REAL

A Guide to Tell a Diamond is Real

When it comes to distinguishing a genuine diamond from a convincing substitute, there are several reliable methods you can follow. Whether you're curious about visual cues, physical tests, or professional evaluations, the experts at Bob Richards Jewelers can guide you through the process with precision. From clarity and brilliance to specific characteristics only a true diamond possesses, we are well-versed in determining the authenticity of your precious stones. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you have a magnificent gemstone that you love, and we are always available to help you uncover whether your piece is a brilliant diamond or a skillful imitation.

Water Test

If you’re seeking a straightforward and simple way to check if your diamond is genuine from the comfort of home, consider the water test. To perform the test, simply fill a glass with water and drop the stone in. Because diamonds have a high density, a real one will immediately sink to the bottom of the glass. If the stone floats or hovers just below the surface, it’s likely a fake or an imitation made from a less dense material. While easy, this test is not foolproof— some convincing alternatives may also sink in water. However, it’s a quick way to get an initial idea of your diamond's authenticity.

Check the Setting and Mount

The setting and mount of a ring can offer valuable clues about its construction, as well as whether it holds a genuine diamond or an alternative. Authentic diamonds are typically set in high-quality metals such as platinum, white gold, or yellow gold, and the inside of the band may feature markings like "10K," "14K," "18K," or "PT" to indicate these materials. If the setting is made from a less valuable metal or shows signs of wear that suggest lower craftsmanship, the stone may not be a real diamond. A well-crafted mount often complements a real diamond's value, reflecting its luxurious nature.

UV Light Test

As many real diamonds exhibit fluorescence when exposed to UV light, placing your diamond under a UV light can help reveal whether or not it is genuine. This fluorescence often causes the diamond to emit a blue glow, especially under ultraviolet rays. However, this test is not entirely foolproof— some diamonds do not fluoresce, and many synthetic diamonds and imitations can also exhibit similar fluorescence. Additionally, the presence or absence of fluorescence alone cannot definitively confirm a diamond's authenticity. While UV light can provide useful information about the stone's genuineness, it should be combined with other tests for a more accurate assessment.

Trust Your Local Jeweler

Visiting your local jewelry store is the most failsafe way to determine whether or not your diamonds are genuine. A reputable jeweler, like those on our team here at Bob Richards, can employ a range of sophisticated techniques to determine the authenticity of diamonds. Using specialized tools like a jeweler’s loupe or a microscope, they inspect the stone for natural inclusions and characteristics unique to genuine diamonds. They may also utilize a diamond tester that measures thermal conductivity, as real diamonds conduct heat differently from imitations. For further precision, advanced spectroscopy or other gemological equipment can be used to analyze the stone’s properties. These expert evaluations ensure an accurate determination of whether the diamond is genuine, providing confidence in the authenticity and value of your gemstones.

Discover Incredible Diamonds at Bob Richards Jewelers

At Bob Richards Jewelers, our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to helping you discover jewelry adorned with the most stunning, genuine diamonds. From our showroom in Germantown, Tennessee, we proudly offer a comprehensive appraisal program to ensure you fully understand the value and quality of your gemstones and jewelry. Additionally, our custom design services allow you to create a one-of-a-kind piece that perfectly suits your style and preferences. For personalized assistance with appraisals or to explore our exquisite collection for something new, we invite you to visit our showroom or to contact us with any questions you may have about your experience.