How to Spot a Fake Diamond

Instruction: Take the piece of diamond in your hands and breathe into it as if you are trying to fog your bathroom mirror. The Breath Test

Result: If the stone turns cloudy and retains some of the moisture, it is most probably fake. The Breath Test

The Sandpaper Test Instruction: Try rubbing sandpaper on the stone. Rubbing sandpaper on the stone shouldn’t damage it.

The Sandpaper Test Result: If you see a single scratch, you might be dealing with a fake diamond (e.g. Cubic Zirconia)

The Sparkle Test Instruction: Hold the diamond in the light and see how it sparkles.

The Sparkle Test Result: If the inside of the stone shows rainbow colors, you're probably looking at a fake diamond.

Refractivity Test Instruction: Take your stone and put it upside down on a piece of newspaper.

Refractivity Test Result: If you can see the letters through the stone it's probably a fake one.

Instruction: Check the stone's mounting. The Mounting Test

Take note: A valuable diamond is unlikely placed in a poor-quality metal. It is usually in gold or platinum bands, with the karat visible in the inner part of the metal.

Important note: The best way to determine the authenticity of a diamond is to bring it to a Gemologist. Try to find one in your local area or antique dealer, as they may have recommendations.

Do you have a diamond you’d like appraised? Come visit Biltmore Loan at our 2 store locations in Arizona. To learn more tips on Jewelry, Antiques and other collectibles, visit our site: N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ N 54th St, Chandler, AZ 85226