How to Spot a Real Moissanite Diamond: Simple Authenticity Checks
Moissanite diamonds have gained popularity in recent years due to their stunning brilliance and affordability. These gemstones, created in a lab, closely resemble natural diamonds but are actually made of silicon carbide. Since moissanite diamonds are less expensive than their natural counterparts, it is essential to know how to spot a real moissanite diamond to avoid being deceived by synthetic or fake stones. In this article, we will discuss some simple authenticity checks that can help you determine if a moissanite diamond is genuine or not.
Key Features for Instant Authenticity Checks
To identify a real moissanite diamond, it is important to look for certain key features that are unique to this gemstone. Moissanite diamonds have a high refractive index, which means they have a greater brilliance and sparkle compared to natural diamonds. They also have a high dispersion, meaning they display more fire or rainbow-colored flashes when exposed to light. These two characteristics are distinct to moissanite diamonds and can easily differentiate them from other gemstones.
Additionally, moissanite diamonds have a hardness of 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making them highly resistant to scratches. This durability is a significant advantage over other gemstones like cubic zirconia, which can easily get scratched. By examining these key features, you can quickly determine if a moissanite diamond is real or not.
Simple Authenticity Checks
There are a few simple tests you can perform to verify the authenticity of a moissanite diamond. These tests can be done at home and do not require any special equipment.
1. Color Test: Moissanite diamonds typically have a slight yellow or gray tint, especially in larger sizes. If you observe a completely colorless stone, it is likely a fake diamond. However, keep in mind that the color of moissanite can vary, and it is not a reliable indicator on its own.
2. Brilliance Test: Hold the moissanite diamond under different lighting conditions and observe its brilliance. A real moissanite diamond will display a high level of sparkle and brilliance, often exceeding that of a natural diamond. If the stone lacks brilliance or appears dull, it may not be a genuine moissanite diamond.
3. Double Refraction Test: Moissanite diamonds exhibit double refraction, meaning that when you look through the stone, you may see two slightly offset images. This effect is not present in natural diamonds. To perform this test, place the moissanite diamond on a piece of paper with small text and look through the stone. If you see double images, it is likely a real moissanite diamond.
4. Thermal Conductivity Test: Moissanite diamonds have high thermal conductivity, meaning they disperse heat quickly. To conduct this test, gently breathe on the stone or touch it briefly. If the fog or heat dissipates instantly, it is likely a real moissanite diamond.
Conclusion
Spotting a real moissanite diamond can be easily done with a few simple authenticity checks. By examining key features like high refractive index, dispersion, and hardness, you can quickly determine if a moissanite diamond is genuine. Additionally, performing color, brilliance, double refraction, and thermal conductivity tests can help you further confirm its authenticity. Remember to rely on reputable sources and consult with a professional jeweler if you have any doubts. With these tips in mind, you can confidently identify a real moissanite diamond and make an informed purchase decision.