When purchasing a diamond, knowing how to verify its authenticity is crucial. Real diamonds are a significant investment, and understanding how to differentiate them from fake ones ensures you get the quality and value you deserve. Here’s an expert guide from Josef and Joseph to help you identify a genuine diamond.

The Fog Test

Hold the diamond close to your mouth and breathe on it as you would on a mirror. A real diamond will clear up almost immediately, as it doesn’t retain heat well. A fake diamond may take longer to clear due to its different thermal properties.

Inspect the Sparkle

Real diamonds have a unique brilliance, refracting light to produce a dazzling array of colors. Fake diamonds, like cubic zirconia, may lack this depth and appear more like glass under light.

Check the Weight

Cubic zirconia, one of the most common diamond substitutes, is significantly heavier than a real diamond of the same size. If you’re unsure, weighing the stone can help determine its authenticity.

The Water Test

Drop the diamond into a glass of water. A real diamond will sink to the bottom due to its density, while a fake stone might float or sink more slowly.

Professional Certification

The most reliable way to confirm a diamond’s authenticity is through certification. At Josef and Joseph, every diamond is accompanied by a GIA (Gemological Institute of America) certificate, guaranteeing its quality and authenticity.

Magnification Test

Under magnification, real diamonds show natural inclusions or tiny flaws, while fake stones often appear too perfect. A jeweler’s loupe can reveal these subtle differences.

Buying a diamond is a significant milestone, and ensuring its authenticity is essential. At Josef and Joseph, we pride ourselves on sourcing genuine, high-quality diamonds for our clients. Visit our store or schedule an appointment with our experts to explore our certified diamond collection.