Moissanite diamonds are becoming increasingly popular in the jewelry market due to their brilliance and affordability. However, with the rise in demand for moissanite, there has also been an increase in counterfeit stones being passed off as the real deal. As a beginner, it can be challenging to differentiate between a genuine moissanite and a fake one. In this article, we will provide you with easy tips on how to spot real moissanite diamonds.
### Look for the “Moissanite” Stamp
One of the easiest ways to spot a genuine moissanite diamond is by looking for the “moissanite” stamp on the stone itself. Most reputable moissanite manufacturers will engrave or laser inscribe the word “moissanite” on the girdle of the stone. If you cannot see the stamp with your naked eye, you can use a jeweler’s loupe to inspect the stone more closely.
### Test the Stone’s Brilliance
Moissanite diamonds are known for their exceptional brilliance and fire. To test the stone’s brilliance, try placing it under different lighting conditions. Genuine moissanite diamonds will exhibit a rainbow of colors when exposed to light, due to their high refractive index. If the stone does not display this rainbow effect, it may not be a real moissanite diamond.
### Use a Diamond Tester
Another reliable way to spot a genuine moissanite diamond is by using a diamond tester. These electronic devices are designed to differentiate between diamonds and other gemstones based on their thermal conductivity. Moissanite has a higher thermal conductivity than diamonds, so a diamond tester will be able to detect the difference.
### Check the Stone’s Hardness
Moissanite diamonds are almost as hard as diamonds, scoring a 9.25 on the Mohs scale of hardness. To test the hardness of the stone, you can try scratching it with a diamond or another moissanite. If the stone scratches easily, it may not be a genuine moissanite diamond.
### Simple Ways to Spot Genuine Stones
When purchasing moissanite diamonds, it is essential to buy from reputable sources such as certified jewelers or online retailers with positive reviews. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may be selling fake moissanite diamonds. Additionally, always ask for a certificate of authenticity when buying moissanite diamonds to ensure that you are getting a genuine stone.
In conclusion, spotting real moissanite diamonds can be challenging for beginners, but with these easy tips, you can confidently identify genuine stones. Remember to look for the “moissanite” stamp, test the stone’s brilliance, use a diamond tester, check the stone’s hardness, and always buy from reputable sources. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are purchasing a real moissanite diamond that will dazzle for years to come.