How to Spot Moissanite Diamonds: Real or Fake?
When it comes to diamond jewelry, there is nothing more disappointing than finding out that the diamond you thought was real is actually a fake. With advancements in technology, it has become increasingly difficult to tell the difference between a real diamond and a synthetic one. However, there are a few easy tips you can use to spot moissanite, a popular diamond alternative.
Understanding Moissanite
Before diving into the tips, it’s important to understand what moissanite is. Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that closely resembles a diamond. It is made of silicon carbide and possesses similar characteristics to a diamond, such as its brilliance and durability. However, there are some distinct differences that can help you determine whether the stone is moissanite or a real diamond.
Tip 1: Sparkle and Brilliance
One of the easiest ways to spot moissanite is by looking at its sparkle and brilliance. Moissanite tends to have more colorful flashes of light compared to a diamond. While diamonds exhibit a white sparkle, moissanite often displays a yellow or green tint under certain lighting conditions. This is due to its unique optical properties. To test this, hold the stone under various lighting sources and observe the colors that reflect off the surface.
Tip 2: Color and Clarity
Diamonds are graded on a color scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Moissanite, on the other hand, tends to have a slight yellow or gray hue. If the stone you are examining has a perfect white color, it is more likely to be a diamond. Additionally, moissanite may have more visible flaws or inclusions compared to a real diamond, which is typically more internally flawless.
Tip 3: Hardness
Diamonds are the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth, scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Moissanite falls slightly behind with a score of 9.25. This means that moissanite is still quite durable and scratch-resistant, but it is not as hard as a diamond. To test the hardness, try scratching the stone against a known diamond or a piece of glass. If it leaves a mark, it is likely moissanite.
Tip 4: Weight and Density
Diamonds are denser than moissanite, which means that a diamond of the same size will weigh more. If you have access to a precision scale, you can weigh the stone and compare it to the weight of a diamond with similar dimensions. If the stone weighs significantly less, it is likely to be moissanite.
Conclusion
Spotting moissanite can be a challenging task, but with these easy tips, you can increase your chances of distinguishing between a real diamond and a fake one. Remember to observe the sparkle and brilliance, examine the color and clarity, test the hardness, and compare the weight and density. By following these guidelines, you can confidently determine whether the diamond in your possession is real or fake.