{"id":5748,"date":"2025-04-18T05:44:00","date_gmt":"2025-04-18T05:44:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/?p=5748"},"modified":"2025-09-13T05:43:13","modified_gmt":"2025-09-13T05:43:13","slug":"how-to-tell-a-real-diamond-from-a-fake","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-a-real-diamond-from-a-fake\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Tell a Fake Diamond from a Real Diamond &#8211; 8 Different Ways"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do you tell if your diamond is real?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How do you know if your diamond is real or fake? Serendipity Diamonds suggests eight tests\u2014try them at home to see if your diamond is genuine. Remember, many gemstones look very similar to diamonds and are easily mistaken for diamonds.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Have you ever wondered how to tell a real diamond? How do you know if a diamond is real or fake? And, is the sparkle of your diamond from the genuine article?<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"462\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/04\/how-to-spot-a-fake-diamond1.jpg\" alt=\"How to spot a real diamond from a fake diamond\" class=\"wp-image-5753\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/04\/how-to-spot-a-fake-diamond1.jpg 650w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/04\/how-to-spot-a-fake-diamond1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What are the different kinds of fake diamonds?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Both real and fake diamonds look very similar. Many experts use the terms simulant and synthetic diamonds to separate gems with a similar appearance into naturally <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diamond_simulant\">occurring lookalikes (simulants)<\/a> and manufactured <a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/info\/ethical-lab-grown-diamonds\">(synthetic) diamonds, also referred to as lab-grown diamonds<\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Many &#8216;fake&#8217; diamonds look alike. This article reveals several ingenious ways to tell a real diamond from a fake.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You will learn to tell if your diamond is real using just one of our tests. Or is your diamond a worthless imitation? Some of the following criteria need the stone unset from the ring mount.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cDvgfO31Z5k\" width=\"850\" height=\"478\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What are Synthetic Diamonds?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">A synthetic diamond is also known as a lab-grown diamond. Other names include cultured diamond, cultivated diamond, lab-created diamond, and man-made diamond. Synthetic diamonds are produced artificially, unlike natural diamonds formed beneath the Earth. Essentially, synthetic diamonds are real diamonds. But, unlike natural diamonds, they are formed above ground by artificial means.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Please note that our tests will not identify lab-created diamonds. Most lab-grown or created diamonds include a tiny inscription identifying them as lab-grown for this reason. You might see small&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/how-to-read-the-gia-laser-inscription-on-your-diamond\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">writing on the girdle of a real diamond<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> or a lab-created stone. Be cautious about lab diamond rings since &#8216;man-made&#8217; the laser inscription, often lies beneath a claw or prong of the setting.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What are Diamond Simulants?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Diamond simulants fall into the category of imitation diamonds\u2014stones with gemmological features similar to the real thing. Diamond Simulants differ from synthetic diamonds. In contrast, synthetic diamonds have the same material properties as natural diamonds. For this reason, most of our tests help to identify a diamond simulant from a real one.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">1. The Line Test<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"234\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/04\/how-to-tell-a-real-diamond1.jpg\" alt=\"How to tell a real diamond from a lookalike diamond - the line test\" class=\"wp-image-5760\" title=\"Diamond line test to identify a real diamond from a fake\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/04\/how-to-tell-a-real-diamond1.jpg 650w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/04\/how-to-tell-a-real-diamond1-300x108.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The line test involves placing the stone on a single black line drawn on paper. It is a great way to distinguish a real diamond from a fake. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When a loose non-diamond is placed over the black line, the line can be seen through the stone. Place a real diamond over the black line and watch the line disappear. White light bends when passing through a diamond.&nbsp;<\/span>Put simply, the higher refractive index of diamond bends light with greater effect than other non-diamonds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">2. Check the weight and size of your diamond<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You can check if your loose diamond is real by weighing the stone on gemmological scales. For example, a 5mm round diamond weighs close to 0.50cts (give or take a few points.) <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<!DOCTYPE html>\n<html lang=\"en\">\n<head>\n  <meta charset=\"UTF-8\">\n  <meta name=\"viewport\" content=\"width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0\">\n  <title>Diamond vs Cubic Zirconia Comparison<\/title>\n  <style>\n    table {\n      border-collapse: collapse;\n      width: 100%;\n      margin-top: 20px;\n    }\n    th, td {\n      border: 1px solid #ddd;\n      padding: 8px;\n      text-align: left;\n    }\n    th {\n      background-color: #f2f2f2;\n    }\n  <\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n  <h2>Diamond vs Cubic Zirconia Comparison<\/h2>\n  <table>\n    <thead>\n      <tr>\n        <th>Gemstone Size (mm)<\/th>\n        <th>Diamond Weight (carats)<\/th>\n        <th>CZ Weight (carats)<\/th>\n      <\/tr>\n    <\/thead>\n    <tbody>\n      <tr>\n        <td>4.0<\/td>\n        <td>0.25<\/td>\n        <td>0.43<\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n      <tr>\n        <td>4.5<\/td>\n        <td>0.36<\/td>\n        <td>0.61<\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n      <tr>\n        <td>5.0<\/td>\n        <td>0.50<\/td>\n        <td>0.80<\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n      <tr>\n        <td>5.5<\/td>\n        <td>0.60<\/td>\n        <td>1.15<\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n      <tr>\n        <td>6.0<\/td>\n        <td>0.80<\/td>\n        <td>1.50<\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n      <tr>\n        <td>6.5<\/td>\n        <td>1.00<\/td>\n        <td>1.75<\/td>\n      <\/tr>\n    <\/tbody>\n  <\/table>\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\n\n\n\n<p>However, a<span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> CZ (Cubic Zirconia) of the same size weighs far heavier, which is a straightforward sign that the stone is not a diamond. You can check the size and weight of your diamond <\/span><a class=\"_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/education\/diamond-size-chart\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">against our online size chart<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"1093\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/Round-Diamond-Sizes-Compared.jpg\" alt=\"round diamond sizes compared\" class=\"wp-image-7197\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/Round-Diamond-Sizes-Compared.jpg 650w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/10\/Round-Diamond-Sizes-Compared-178x300.jpg 178w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">3. The breath or fog test<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Some diamond experts use a breath test to spot a real diamond from a fake. When you breathe slowly on the surface of a diamond, moisture beads finely over the stone, disappearing very rapidly. The reason is thermal conductivity. The fog disappears gradually from a non-diamond. For this reason, diamonds have applications in electronics. Lab-grown wafer-thin examples make an ideal thermal conductor for circuitry. Diamonds are the best thermal conductors on Earth.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/breath-on-diamond-683x1024.png\" alt=\"Real diamond vs fake diamond and the breath test\" class=\"wp-image-23380\" style=\"width:850px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/breath-on-diamond-683x1024.png 683w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/breath-on-diamond-200x300.png 200w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/breath-on-diamond-768x1152.png 768w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/breath-on-diamond.png 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The fog disappears gradually from a non-diamond. For this reason, diamonds serve a use in electronics. Lab-grown wafer-thin examples make an ideal thermal conductor for circuitry. Diamonds are the best thermal conductors on Earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">4. Touching a rock with your tongue<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Not strictly tasting the stone, some seasoned experts can tell a real diamond by putting it against their tongue. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"850\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Touching-diamond-on-tongue.png\" alt=\"Thermal conductivity of diamonds. A simple test, touching a diamond on the tongue. \" class=\"wp-image-23383\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Touching-diamond-on-tongue.png 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Touching-diamond-on-tongue-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Touching-diamond-on-tongue-250x250.png 250w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Touching-diamond-on-tongue-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Touching-diamond-on-tongue-730x730.png 730w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Touching-diamond-on-tongue-55x55.png 55w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Thermal conductivity of diamonds. A simple test, touching a diamond on the tongue. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This test relates to diamonds&#8217; ability to transfer heat\u2014put simply, their excellent thermal conductivity. Because of its thermal properties, diamonds&#8217; icy feel <span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">is very subtle and difficult to detect. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Diamonds take the heat away from the surface of your tongue. Diamonds are very good at dispersing heat. For this reason, lab-grown diamond wafers make great thermal conductors for electronic circuits.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">5. Does your diamond look too perfect?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Whilst flawless diamonds exist, synthetic\/simulant diamonds imitate perfect, bright white diamonds free of inclusions. They look too real! You could have a fake if the stone appears very white and free of any small marks. Or, you might be holding a costly diamond! CZs often appear almost purple-white compared to diamonds. For this test, you need a 10X loupe or a magnifying glass. We grade diamond colours using a scale starting at D colour. Some imitation diamonds appear too white. However, some gemstones set into Yellow Gold pick up colour from the metal colour, appearing less white. For this reason, most gems are colour-graded loose.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">6. How sharp are the facets on your diamond?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Many replica stones, such as Cubic Zirconia, have more rounded edges to each facet compared to diamonds. Diamonds appear sharper and keep this sharpness. Compare a diamond to a CZ under a 10X jeweller&#8217;s lens, which will be noticeable upon looking closely.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/product\/r1d099-lila-four-claw-solitaire-engagement-ring\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"670\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Lila-engagement-ring-heart-shaped-underbezel-detail.jpg\" alt=\"Lila engagement ring with heart shaped underbezel\" class=\"wp-image-11802\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Lila-engagement-ring-heart-shaped-underbezel-detail.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Lila-engagement-ring-heart-shaped-underbezel-detail-300x236.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/06\/Lila-engagement-ring-heart-shaped-underbezel-detail-768x605.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>The Lila engagement ring in white gold set with a large simulant for display purposes. (From the SD showroom.)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">7. Is your diamond worn?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Diamonds rarely scuff or become abraded and worn. <\/span><a class=\"_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/cloudy-diamonds-milky-white\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Diamonds can sometimes appear &#8216;smoked&#8217;<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> when a stone burns under high temperature\u2014skin results on the stone which requires polishing to remove. As a result, a smoked diamond reflects light less with a dull surface.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Diamonds tend to keep their sharp, perfectly polished facets for life. For this reason, they outperform other gems for engagement rings. Cubic Zirconia and other replica stones wear more quickly. Non-diamonds wear on the joins between facets. This detail appears under a jeweller&#8217;s lens or magnifying glass. Do not confuse wear with chips, polish marks or natural inclusions on the surface of the diamond.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Most people know that it takes a diamond to scratch another diamond. In fact, diamonds rarely pick up scratches unless it is from another stone of the same type. On&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mohs_scale_of_mineral_hardness\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Mohs scale of hardness<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, diamonds are 10 on top of the list.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Rough materials such as sandpaper scratch diamond lookalikes but not real diamonds. For this reason, we refer to this test as the &#8216;Scratch Test&#8217;. We do not advise carrying out this test on any item unless there is no fear of damage. Most precious metals scratch easily, so be careful when considering this test.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">8. Does your diamond have small marks?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Most natural diamonds have marks on them. We refer to these as&nbsp;<\/span><a class=\"_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/clarity-characteristics-of-diamonds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">inclusions<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. If you can see small marks within your diamond, the chances are that your diamond is real and not fake. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"610\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/GIA-IGI-Clarity-Grades.jpg\" alt=\"GIA and IGI clarity grades compared\" class=\"wp-image-11322\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/GIA-IGI-Clarity-Grades.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/GIA-IGI-Clarity-Grades-300x215.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/01\/GIA-IGI-Clarity-Grades-768x551.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">We grade diamonds 10x magnification to grade their clarity. Many items of cheaper jewellery feature diamonds with more substantial inclusions. Some might call these natural diamonds or diamonds of a commercial grade.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Interestingly, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/black-diamonds-natural-treated\/\">black diamonds<\/a> feature incredible amounts of natural inclusions. As a result, black diamonds exist in both natural and treated varieties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following <a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/product\/galaxy-black-diamond-engagement-ring\">galaxy black diamond ring<\/a> comes from our bespoke ring gallery and reveals the density of inclusions found in many black diamond rings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"542\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/galaxy-diamond-ring.jpg\" alt=\"Black and white diamond ring\" class=\"wp-image-20660\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/galaxy-diamond-ring.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/galaxy-diamond-ring-300x191.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/galaxy-diamond-ring-768x490.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Use a fake diamond tester.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Over the years, I have used <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3CDLlBV\">electronic diamond testers<\/a>. These handy tools provide a much-needed helping hand to test a diamond. Most jewellers should keep one handy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even as a backup to verify their own judgment. Some diamond tester pens will also identify another gemstone, including Moissanite. Expect a diamond tester price to be at least \u00a340 + \u00a350, and avoid cheaper versions. More expensive versions exist, such as the Praesidium diamond tester.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does a diamond tester work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Diamond testers&nbsp;<b>have a metal tip at the end of the tester to determine if the stone is a real diamond<\/b>. It measures thermal conductivity specific to diamonds. The sprung metal tip is pushed against the diamond or gemstone, and the LED reading shows whether the stone is a genuine diamond or not. Most devices are battery-operated and compact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3CDLlBV\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"622\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Diamond-tester.jpg\" alt=\"Diamond tester \" class=\"wp-image-17966\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Diamond-tester.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Diamond-tester-300x220.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Diamond-tester-768x562.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will SI diamonds pass a diamond tester?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, most definitely. SI diamonds and most included diamonds pass a diamond tester. They have the same thermal conductivity as diamonds and produce the same result when tested.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ask-an-expert-if-you-can-t-tell-a-real-diamond-from-a-fake-diamond\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ask an expert if you can&#8217;t tell a real diamond from a fake diamond.<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If you&#8217;re passing our showroom in Ryde, feel welcome to drop by. We&#8217;ll gladly test your &#8216;fake diamond&#8217; to see if it is real. We test third-party &#8216;diamonds&#8217; often. If your gemstone is genuine or not, we can set your stone into one of our designs. We must, however, identify your stone before any work starts. Please get in touch for a quote to set your stone into one of our many settings.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Diamond tests to avoid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Some misguided articles suggest the heat test. In this test, a diamond is heated in a flame before being dropped into cold water. Theoretically, this could prove that your diamond is real.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To explain, some synthetic gemstones may shatter as a result. However, should your diamond have internal flaws and surface breaks, a real diamond could fracture similarly. Extremes of temperature can affect a real diamond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Why does a diamond glow under UV light?<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When a diamond glows under UV light, this does not mean you have an artificial or fake diamond. Some diamonds reflect UV light in varying degrees. As a result, some diamonds appear to glow under intense UV light.&nbsp;Read more about <a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/education\/what-is-diamond-fluorescence\">diamond fluorescence<\/a> in our education section of the website.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We took the following photograph of a parcel of small natural diamonds to show how some diamonds appear fluorescent under UV light. At the same time, other diamonds in the same parcel show slight or nil fluorescence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"626\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/real-diamonds-fluorescent-and-non-fluorescent.jpg\" alt=\"Parcel of diamonds showing differing degrees of fluorescence\" class=\"wp-image-21795\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/real-diamonds-fluorescent-and-non-fluorescent.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/real-diamonds-fluorescent-and-non-fluorescent-300x221.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/real-diamonds-fluorescent-and-non-fluorescent-768x566.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Gemstone Diamond lookalikes<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">For reasons of cost, some buyers search for lookalike diamond gemstones. Many transparent white gems stand in for diamonds. Some cost far less than diamonds. But many lack the hardness and dazzle of a diamond. Here are just some gemstones used as diamond substitutes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">White Topaz<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">White Topaz costs far less than other gemstones. Also, White Topaz occurs in various fancy shapes. Some buyers use White Topaz instead of a diamond. Real diamond shoulders work well alongside Topaz. These add an element of a &#8216;real diamond&#8217; to a ring.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"850\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Gem-stones-that-look-like-diamonds-white-topaz.jpg\" alt=\"White Topaz one of the gem stones that look like diamonds\" class=\"wp-image-15198\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Gem-stones-that-look-like-diamonds-white-topaz.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Gem-stones-that-look-like-diamonds-white-topaz-250x250.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Gem-stones-that-look-like-diamonds-white-topaz-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Gem-stones-that-look-like-diamonds-white-topaz-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Gem-stones-that-look-like-diamonds-white-topaz-730x730.jpg 730w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/Gem-stones-that-look-like-diamonds-white-topaz-55x55.jpg 55w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>White Topaz gemstone looks very similar to a diamond.&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">White Sapphire<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Perhaps the best fake diamond substitute. Despite White Sapphires lacking the same &#8216;fire&#8217; as a diamond, they are durable. Sapphires and diamonds make tough gemstones, well-suited to rings worn daily.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Moissanite<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Moissanite was discovered in 1893 by the Nobel Prize-winning chemist Henri Moissan. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">He found the natural form of this gemstone within a meteorite in Arizona. At first, mistaken for diamonds, he later established that the crystals were formed from Silicon Carbide. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"849\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/2-carat-moissanite.jpg\" alt=\"2 carat moissanite\" class=\"wp-image-17013\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/2-carat-moissanite.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/2-carat-moissanite-250x250.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/2-carat-moissanite-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/2-carat-moissanite-768x767.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/2-carat-moissanite-730x730.jpg 730w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/2-carat-moissanite-55x55.jpg 55w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Example of a round brilliant-cut Moissanite, available as an alternative to diamonds within our jewellery designs. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Owing to the rarity of natural Moissanite, almost all Moissanite is lab-grown. Furthermore, this diamond alternative, with visual differences, appears similar to a diamond. For example, the brilliance of both types of gemstone differs.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Compared to a diamond, Moissanite features double refraction. To the trained eye, Moissanite sparkles with additional brilliance compared to a diamond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/bqjVmzo0oXU\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moissanites provide one of the least expensive, durable alternatives to diamonds. Furthermore, their low cost makes them an attractive option for engagement ring buyers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/style\/diamond-engagement-rings\/moissanite-engagement-rings\"><em>Learn more about our Moissanite engagement rings available at Serendipity Diamonds.&nbsp;<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Lab-grown diamonds<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/lab-grown-diamonds-vs-natural-diamonds\/\">Lab-grown diamonds look identical to real diamonds<\/a>, with the same physical appearance and properties. For this reason, most feature an inscription on the stone&#8217;s girdle. The words &#8220;lab-grown&#8221; appear to avoid any confusion with the genuine article.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"723\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Lab-grown-diamond-inscription.jpg\" alt=\"lab-grown diamonds include a laser inscription on the girdle to identify them as lab created diamonds\" class=\"wp-image-16576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Lab-grown-diamond-inscription.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Lab-grown-diamond-inscription-300x255.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Lab-grown-diamond-inscription-768x653.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Lab-grown diamonds <\/span>provide an identical alternative to natural diamonds with the same physical and chemical properties. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds work out exceptionally cheaper in their cost. For this reason, their popularity continues to soar. As a result, we introduced the option of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/style\/diamond-rings\/lab-diamond-rings\">lab-grown diamond rings<\/a> in addition to their use across our showroom and website collection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The following ring comes from our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/style\/ready-to-wear-collection\/ready-to-wear-engagement-rings\">ready-made engagement rings collectio<\/a>n and combines a large lab-grown pink diamond with natural white diamonds in each shoulder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"623\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Blush-pink-diamond-engagement-ring.jpg\" alt=\"Lab-grown pink diamond ring\" class=\"wp-image-21788\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Blush-pink-diamond-engagement-ring.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Blush-pink-diamond-engagement-ring-300x220.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/Blush-pink-diamond-engagement-ring-768x563.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cubic Zirconia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many jewellers refer to <strong>Cubic zirconia<\/strong> by its abbreviation\u2014&nbsp;<strong>CZ<\/strong>. Cubic Zirconia represents a cubic crystalline form of Zirconium Dioxide. Despite its visual similarity to diamond, Cubic Zirconia wears easily and lacks nearly the same durability as diamond. For this reason, many jewellers use the low-cost diamond lookalike to create replicas<a href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/uk\/education\/try-before-you-buy-engagement-rings-waxes-samples\">, try-at-home engagement rings<\/a>\u2014inexpensive versions of the real thing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"850\" height=\"557\" src=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/CZ-master-set-of-colour-comparison-stones-final-1400pxs.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-21800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/CZ-master-set-of-colour-comparison-stones-final-1400pxs.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/CZ-master-set-of-colour-comparison-stones-final-1400pxs-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/CZ-master-set-of-colour-comparison-stones-final-1400pxs-768x503.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Popular for costume jewellery, CZs make an effective faux diamond for travel, the film industry and replica jewellery. Cubic Zirconia can be easily identified as fake by weight. Unlike diamonds, this similar-looking gemstone weighs more than an equivalent-sized diamond. In addition, see the line test above, which easily identifies a CZ owing to its poorer refraction of light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cubic Zirconia occurs in a variety of shades of white, as shown above. We use a set of CZ Master stones to demonstrate diamond colours as shown above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1661682934737\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the best alternative to a natural diamond?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The best alternative to a natural diamond is a lab-grown diamond\u2014indistinguishable from a mined diamond, approximately half the price and non-destructive to the environment. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1661683039646\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the quickest way to identify a fake diamond?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Weigh the loose stone. Most diamond alternatives weigh differently compared to a diamond. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1661683132159\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Why choose a diamond for an engagement ring?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Diamonds provide the most durable choice of gemstone for an engagement ring. Unlike other fake diamonds, real (natural or lab-grown) diamonds rarely show signs of wear. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1661683273905\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the cheapest and best alternative to a diamond?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">We recommend Moissanite as the cheapest and best diamond alternative. Moissanite provides an affordable gemstone, similar in appearance to a diamond, with equal hardness and durability. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1662377118738\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can you scratch a diamond?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. A diamond will scratch another diamond. For this reason, diamond merchants keep larger diamonds in separate parcels. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1662377164190\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Why does one of my diamonds glow under UV light?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Some diamonds exhibit varying degrees of fluorescence, but this does not indicate the diamond is fake. Larger certified diamond reports often specify fluorescence alongside the cut, colour, carat and clarity grades. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1662377351331\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can you break a real diamond with a hammer?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes, absolutely. Although diamonds offer incredible hardness, they can be broken and chipped with enough force. <\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1662377489247\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are treated diamonds?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Some diamonds are treated to alter their colour or to improve their clarity. For example, laser drill holes injected with acid can remove black inclusions. Or, some diamonds can be glass filled with resin to disguise flaws. Such diamonds should be specifically sold as treated and typically achieve far lower values than untreated diamonds. <\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">\n{\n  \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n  \"@type\": \"BlogPosting\",\n  \"mainEntityOfPage\": {\n    \"@type\": \"WebPage\",\n    \"@id\": \"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-a-real-diamond-from-a-fake\/\"\n  },\n  \"headline\": \"How to Tell a Fake Diamond from a Real Diamond \u2013 8 Different Ways\",\n  \"description\": \"Different ways to identify a fake diamond compared to a real diamond.\",\n  \"image\": \"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/05\/real-diamond-vs-fake-diamond.jpg\",  \n  \"author\": {\n    \"@type\": \"Person\",\n    \"name\": \"Mark Johnson\",\n    \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/author\/admin\/\"\n  },  \n  \"publisher\": {\n    \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n    \"name\": \"Serendipity Diamonds\",\n    \"logo\": {\n      \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n      \"url\": \"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/SerendipityDiamonds\/layouts-main\/images\/serendipity_diamonds_logo.png\"\n    }\n  },\n  \"datePublished\": \"2017-06-30\",\n  \"dateModified\": \"2023-02-24\"\n}\n<\/script>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How do you tell if your diamond is real? How do you know if your diamond is real or fake? Serendipity Diamonds suggests eight tests\u2014try them at home to see if your diamond is genuine. Remember, many gemstones look very similar to diamonds and are easily mistaken for diamonds.\u00a0 Have you ever wondered how to<a class=\"moretag\" href=\"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/how-to-tell-a-real-diamond-from-a-fake\/\"> Read the full article&#8230;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":15059,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[133],"tags":[505,504],"class_list":["post-5748","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-diamonds-2","tag-fake-diamonds","tag-real-diamonds"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5748","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5748"}],"version-history":[{"count":131,"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5748\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23666,"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5748\/revisions\/23666"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15059"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5748"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5748"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.serendipitydiamonds.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5748"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}