How to Spot Fake Moissanite Diamonds: A Simple Guide for Everyday Shoppers
Moissanite diamonds have gained popularity in recent years as an affordable and ethically sourced alternative to traditional diamonds. However, with the rise in demand, there has also been an increase in the production of fake moissanite diamonds. As an everyday shopper, it is important to be able to differentiate between real and fake moissanite diamonds to ensure you are getting what you pay for. In this simple guide, we will provide you with some tips on how to spot fake moissanite diamonds.
1. Research and Familiarize Yourself with Moissanite Diamonds
Before heading out to make your purchase, it is essential to educate yourself about moissanite diamonds. Learn about their unique properties, such as their brilliance, fire, and hardness. Familiarize yourself with the different shapes and cuts available in moissanite diamonds. This will help you better understand what to look for when examining a potential purchase.
2. Observe the Brilliance and Fire
One of the key characteristics of moissanite diamonds is their incredible brilliance and fire. Moissanite diamonds, unlike cubic zirconia or other fake stones, have a higher refractive index, which means they reflect more light and sparkle more intensely. When examining a stone, hold it under different lighting conditions and observe how it reflects light. If the stone lacks brilliance and fire, it may be a fake moissanite diamond.
3. Check for Double Refraction
Moissanite diamonds have a unique property called double refraction, which means that when you look through the stone, you may see a double image. To check for double refraction, place the stone on a white piece of paper with some text and look through it. If you see multiple images or a doubling effect, it is likely a real moissanite diamond. Fake stones, such as cubic zirconia, do not exhibit this property.
4. Examine the Color
Moissanite diamonds are known for their colorless or near-colorless appearance. However, some moissanite diamonds can have a slight yellow or greenish tint. To spot a fake moissanite diamond, check for any unusual colors. If the stone appears too yellow or has a noticeable hue, it may not be a genuine moissanite diamond.
5. Test the Hardness
Moissanite diamonds are one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds on the Mohs scale of hardness. You can perform a simple scratch test to check the hardness of a stone. Moissanite diamonds should be able to scratch glass, whereas most other gemstones and fake diamonds cannot. If the stone fails to scratch glass, it is likely not a real moissanite diamond.
How to Spot Replicas
When shopping for moissanite diamonds, it is important to be aware of the existence of replicas. Replicas are stones that are intentionally made to resemble moissanite diamonds but are not the genuine gemstone. These replicas can be difficult to spot, but there are a few signs to look out for. Replicas often lack the brilliance and fire of real moissanite diamonds. They may also have a lower hardness and fail the scratch test. If you suspect a stone to be a replica, it is best to consult with a reputable jeweler or gemologist for a professional assessment.
In conclusion, being able to differentiate between real and fake moissanite diamonds is crucial for everyday shoppers. By familiarizing yourself with the properties of moissanite diamonds, observing their brilliance and fire, checking for double refraction, examining the color, and testing the hardness, you can increase your chances of identifying a genuine moissanite diamond. Remember to always be cautious when purchasing moissanite diamonds and consult with professionals if you have any doubts.