How to Quickly Spot Fake Moissanite Diamonds
Moissanite diamonds have gained tremendous popularity in recent years due to their striking resemblance to real diamonds. These lab-grown gemstones possess the same brilliance and fire as natural diamonds, but at a fraction of the cost. However, with the rise in demand for moissanite, there has also been an increase in counterfeit products flooding the market. To ensure you are purchasing genuine moissanite diamonds, it is essential to know how to spot imitations quickly. In this article, we will guide you through the key characteristics to look for when identifying fake moissanite diamonds.
1. Conduct a Visual Inspection
The first step in spotting fake moissanite diamonds is to conduct a visual inspection. Hold the stone under good lighting and examine it closely. Moissanite diamonds have a high refractive index, which means they disperse light brilliantly and exhibit more fire than diamonds. Look for rainbow-colored flashes of light as you tilt the stone from side to side. If the stone lacks sparkle or appears dull, it may be an imitation.
2. Check for Double Refraction
Moissanite diamonds are doubly refractive, meaning they bend light in two different directions. To test for double refraction, place the stone on a printed text or grid pattern. If you observe double lines or a blurred effect through the stone, it is likely genuine moissanite. Conversely, if the pattern is clear and undistorted, it may be a fake.
3. Test the Hardness
Another way to quickly spot fake moissanite diamonds is by testing their hardness. Moissanite scores 9.25 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it one of the hardest gemstones. Real diamonds, on the other hand, score a perfect 10. While this test is not foolproof, you can try scratching the stone with a diamond or a piece of glass. If the stone shows signs of scratching, it is likely an imitation.
4. Observe the Color
Moissanite diamonds are typically colorless and exhibit a high level of clarity. However, there are also moissanite stones available in various colors such as yellow, green, and blue. When examining the stone, make sure it does not have a yellow or grayish tint, as this may indicate a fake. Authentic moissanite diamonds should be clear and colorless, similar to high-quality diamonds.
5. Seek Professional Certification
To ensure you are purchasing genuine moissanite diamonds, it is always advisable to seek professional certification. Reputable jewelers often provide certification from gemological laboratories that verify the authenticity of the stone. Look for certifications from well-known organizations such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). These certifications guarantee that the moissanite diamond you are buying is of high quality and not an imitation.
In conclusion, spotting fake moissanite diamonds can be done quickly and effectively by following these key steps. Remember to conduct a visual inspection, check for double refraction, test the hardness, observe the color, and seek professional certification. By being aware of these characteristics, you can confidently purchase genuine moissanite diamonds. Whether you are in the market for an engagement ring or a stunning piece of jewelry, knowing how to spot imitations quickly will ensure you make an informed and valuable purchase.