Spotting Real Moissanite Diamonds: A Simple Guide
Moissanite diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their stunning beauty and affordability. However, with the rise in demand, the market has also seen an influx of fake and synthetic moissanite stones. To ensure you are purchasing a genuine moissanite diamond, it is important to know how to spot the real deal. In this simple guide, we will provide you with easy ways to identify genuine moissanite diamonds.
Understanding Moissanite Diamonds
Before we delve into spotting real moissanite diamonds, let’s first understand what moissanite is. Moissanite is a gemstone that is chemically known as silicon carbide. It was first discovered in 1893 by French scientist Henri Moissan, hence the name. Moissanite diamonds have a similar appearance to natural diamonds, but they differ in their chemical composition and physical properties.
Easy Ways to Identify Genuine Stones
1. Brilliance and Fire: One of the key characteristics of moissanite diamonds is their exceptional brilliance and fire. Moissanite stones tend to have a higher refractive index than diamonds, resulting in more light being reflected and dispersed, creating a mesmerizing sparkle. If a stone exhibits a dazzling play of colors and a remarkable amount of sparkle, it is likely a genuine moissanite diamond.
2. Double Refraction: Moissanite diamonds have a unique property known as double refraction. This means that when you look through the stone, you may see a doubled image or a fuzzy effect. This phenomenon is not present in natural diamonds. To test for double refraction, place the stone on a piece of paper with some text and observe if the text appears doubled when viewed through the stone.
3. Color: While moissanite diamonds are often colorless or near colorless, they can sometimes exhibit a slight yellow or greenish tint. This is not necessarily an indication of a fake moissanite, as natural diamonds can also have color. However, if the stone you are examining has a strong yellow or green hue, it may be a synthetic moissanite or another gemstone altogether.
4. Heat Conductivity: Another way to identify genuine moissanite diamonds is by testing their heat conductivity. Moissanite is an excellent conductor of heat, much like diamonds. If you have a thermal conductivity tester, you can use it to determine if the stone conducts heat similarly to a diamond. However, this method may not be feasible for everyone, as thermal conductivity testers are not widely available.
5. Professional Certification: To be absolutely sure of the authenticity of a moissanite diamond, it is advisable to purchase stones that come with a professional certification. Reputable gemological laboratories such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI) can provide certifications that validate the authenticity of a moissanite diamond. These certifications detail the stone’s characteristics, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Easy Ways to Identify Genuine Stones
In conclusion, spotting real moissanite diamonds requires a keen eye and some knowledge of the stone’s unique properties. By assessing the stone’s brilliance and fire, checking for double refraction, considering its color, and, if possible, testing its heat conductivity, you can determine whether a moissanite diamond is genuine or not. For added assurance, always purchase moissanite diamonds that come with professional certifications from reputable gemological laboratories. With these simple tips, you can confidently identify and enjoy the beauty of genuine moissanite diamonds.