14/04/2026
How to Tell a Real Diamond from a Fake
Diamonds have special properties that make them behave differently from imitations like cubic zirconia or moissanite. Here are the most practical checks:
1. *Fog Test*
Breathe on the stone. A real diamond clears instantly because it disperses heat fast. If it stays foggy for a couple of seconds, it’s probably fake.
2. *Read‑Through Test*
Place the stone on newspaper. You shouldn’t be able to see the letters through a real diamond because it bends light too strongly. If you can read the print, it’s not a diamond.
3. *Sparkle vs. Fire*
Diamonds shine with bright white light (brilliance) and subtle colored flashes (fire). If the stone looks like a rainbow disco ball, it’s likely moissanite or cubic zirconia.
4. *Water Test*
Drop the stone in water. A real diamond sinks immediately because it’s very dense. Some fakes may float or hover.
5. *Check the Setting*
Real diamonds are usually set in quality metals like gold or platinum. Look for stamps such as 10K, 14K, 18K, PT, or Plat. If you see “C.Z.,” it’s cubic zirconia.
6. *Professional Tools*
- *Magnifying Glass (Loupe):* Real diamonds often have tiny natural flaws. Perfect stones are usually synthetic.
- *Diamond Tester:* A handheld device that measures heat flow—fast and reliable.
*Important Note:* Lab‑grown diamonds are chemically identical to natural ones. All these tests will treat them as “real.” Only specialized labs can tell mined from lab‑grown.
