How to Spot Fake Moissanite Diamonds: A Quick Guide for Beginners
Moissanite diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their stunning brilliance and affordability. However, with the rise in demand, the market has also seen an influx of fake moissanite diamonds. These imitations can be very convincing, making it difficult for buyers to differentiate between real and fake stones. If you’re a beginner in the world of moissanite diamonds, fear not! This quick guide will help you spot fake moissanite diamonds and make a confident purchase.
Quick Tips for Spotting Imitations
Before diving into the details, let’s start with a few quick tips to help you spot fake moissanite diamonds:
1. Look for the “moissanite” label: Genuine moissanite diamonds are usually labeled as such. If the stone you are considering does not have a clear label indicating it is moissanite, proceed with caution.
2. Check the price: Moissanite diamonds are generally more affordable than natural diamonds, but they still have a significant price tag. If a stone is being sold at an unbelievably low price, it is likely a fake.
3. Consult with an expert: If you’re unsure about the authenticity of a moissanite diamond, seek the opinion of a trusted gemologist or jeweler. They have the knowledge and expertise to help you determine if the stone is genuine.
Now let’s delve deeper into the details and explore the key characteristics of moissanite diamonds that can help you identify fakes.
Brilliance and Fire
One of the most remarkable features of moissanite diamonds is their exceptional brilliance and fire. Genuine moissanite stones exhibit a dazzling sparkle that is often even more brilliant than that of natural diamonds. They disperse light in a way that creates colorful flashes, known as the “fire” of the stone. If a stone lacks this intense sparkle and fire, it may be a fake.
H2: Refractive Index
The refractive index of a gemstone refers to how light bends as it passes through the stone. Moissanite diamonds have a higher refractive index than natural diamonds, making them more reflective. This results in a greater brilliance and sparkle. To test the refractive index of a stone, you can use a refractometer, a tool commonly used by gemologists. If the refractive index is significantly lower than that of moissanite, it is likely a fake.
H2: Hardness
Another key characteristic of moissanite diamonds is their exceptional hardness. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, moissanite ranks at 9.25, just below the hardness of a natural diamond. This means that moissanite is very resistant to scratches and can withstand everyday wear and tear. If a stone scratches easily, it is probably not moissanite.
H2: Color
Moissanite diamonds are often colorless or near-colorless, similar to high-quality natural diamonds. However, some moissanite stones may exhibit a slight yellow or greenish hue. If a stone displays a prominent color, it may not be genuine moissanite. Keep in mind that moissanite stones with a color grading of G or higher are generally considered to be of higher quality.
H2: Double Refraction
When light passes through a moissanite diamond, it undergoes double refraction, meaning it splits into two separate rays. This can be observed by looking at the facets of the stone under magnification. If you notice doubling or blurring of the facets, it is a strong indication that the stone is moissanite. Natural diamonds, on the other hand, do not exhibit this double refraction.
H2: Certificates and Authenticity
To ensure the authenticity of a moissanite diamond, always ask for a certificate of authenticity from the seller. This certificate should come from a reputable gemological laboratory and provide detailed information about the stone, including its dimensions, weight, color, and clarity. If a seller is unable to provide such a certificate, it is wise to be skeptical about the stone’s authenticity.
In conclusion, spotting fake moissanite diamonds can be challenging, but armed with the knowledge and tips mentioned above, you can become a more informed buyer. Remember to look for the “moissanite” label, check the price, consult with an expert, and examine the stone for its brilliance, refractive index, hardness, color, and double refraction. By following these guidelines and seeking a certificate of authenticity, you can confidently identify genuine moissanite diamonds and make a wise purchase.