How To Identify A Real Gemstone

How To Identify A Real Gemstone

Gemstones have been used for centuries as a symbol of wealth, power, and beauty. However, with the rise of synthetic and fake gemstones, it has become increasingly difficult to identify the real ones. 

The consequences of buying fake gemstones can be costly and can even lead to health hazards. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of real gemstones, how to visually identify them, and the testing methods used to confirm their authenticity.

 

Physical Characteristics of Real Gemstones

The physical characteristics of gemstones are a great indicator of their authenticity. Here are the key physical characteristics to look for:

1. Hardness

Real gemstones are hard and resist scratching.

Diamonds are the hardest known mineral and have a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale.

Other gemstones have varying degrees of hardness, which can be tested using a simple scratch test.

2. Specific Gravity

Real gemstones have a specific gravity that is unique to their type.

The specific gravity of a gemstone is determined by its weight compared to the weight of an equal volume of water. Specific gravity testing can be done using a density meter.

3. Refractive Index

Real gemstones have a refractive index that is unique to their type.

The refractive index is the degree to which light is bent as it passes through a gemstone. Refractive index testing can be done using a refractometer.

4. Pleochroism

Some gemstones have the property of pleochroism, meaning they display different colors when viewed from different angles. Pleochroism can be observed by rotating the gemstone and observing the color changes.

5. Dispersion

Dispersion is the ability of a gemstone to separate white light into its spectral colors.

This effect is seen in gemstones such as diamonds, which have a high dispersion rate.

Dispersion can be observed by looking for rainbow-colored flashes in the gemstone.

 

Other Physical Characteristics

Other physical characteristics of gemstones include magnetism, fluorescence, and thermal conductivity. These characteristics can also help in identifying real gemstones.

 

Visual Characteristics of Real Gemstones

In addition to physical characteristics, gemstones also have visual characteristics that can help in identifying them. Here are the key visual characteristics to look for:

1. Color

Color is one of the easiest ways to identify a gemstone. The color of a gemstone should be uniform and evenly distributed.

Natural gemstones have a unique color that is difficult to replicate in imitations. For example, emeralds have a deep green color, while sapphires are usually blue. If a gemstone's color is too bright or too dull, it may be an imitation.

2. Clarity

The clarity of a gemstone refers to the number and size of inclusions or imperfections within the stone. Natural gemstones usually have some inclusions, while imitations are often flawless. However, some imitations are made with small bubbles or other imperfections to mimic the appearance of natural gemstones. To identify a real gemstone by its clarity, use a magnifying glass to look for natural inclusions.

3. Cut

The cut of a gemstone refers to its shape and how it was cut. Natural gemstones are usually cut to maximize their brilliance and beauty, while imitations may be cut poorly to save on costs. To identify a real gemstone by its cut, look for symmetry and a well-proportioned cut.

4. Carat Weight

The weight of a gemstone can be a good indicator of its authenticity. Natural gemstones are denser than imitations, so they will weigh more for their size. To identify a real gemstone by its weight, use a scale to weigh the gemstone.

Testing Methods for Real Gemstones

In addition to visual inspection, there are several testing methods that can be used to confirm the authenticity of a gemstone:

 

1. Hardness Test

The hardness test is one of the most popular and widely-used methods to identify real gemstones. This test involves scratching the surface of the gemstone with a tool that is harder than the stone itself. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

 

Real gemstones have a high degree of hardness and are difficult to scratch.

Fake gemstones, on the other hand, are often made of softer materials and can be easily scratched.

 

One of the most commonly used tools for this test is a Mohs hardness scale, which ranks minerals on a scale of 1 to 10 based on their hardness.

 

2. Density Test

The density test involves measuring the weight of the gemstone and comparing it to its volume. This test is based on the principle that different materials have different densities. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

 

Real gemstones have a specific density range that is unique to each type of gemstone.

Fake gemstones often have a different density than the real gemstone, which can help to identify them.

 

The most common method used for this test is to immerse the gemstone in a liquid, such as water or a heavy liquid, and measure the displacement.

 

3. Refractive Index Test

The refractive index test is another commonly used method to identify real gemstones. This test involves measuring the degree to which light is bent as it passes through the gemstone. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

 

Different types of gemstones have different refractive indexes, which can be used to identify them.

This test can be performed using a refractometer, which is a device that measures the angle of refraction.

One of the advantages of this test is that it can be performed on both loose and mounted gemstones.

 

4. Ultraviolet Light Test

To identify a real gemstone using a UV light, shine the light on the gemstone and look for any fluorescence. 

 

Some gemstones will fluoresce under ultraviolet light, while others will not. For example, natural diamonds will fluoresce blue, while some imitations will not fluoresce at all. 

 

This test can help to identify certain types of gemstones, such as emeralds and rubies.

One of the disadvantages of this test is that it requires specialized equipment, such as a UV light source.

 

Other Testing Methods

In addition to the above tests, there are several other testing methods that can be used to identify real gemstones. These methods require specialized equipment and are typically performed by a professional gemologist. Here are some examples:

 

• Spectroscopy: This method involves analyzing the light spectrum of the gemstone to identify its chemical composition.

 

• X-Ray Diffraction: This method involves analyzing the diffraction pattern of X-rays that are passed through the gemstone.

 

• Infrared Spectroscopy: This method involves analyzing the infrared spectrum of the gemstone to identify its chemical composition.

 

How to Spot Fake Gemstones

While we have covered some common imitation stones in the previous sections, here are some additional tips on how to spot fake diamond, emerald, sapphire, ruby, and pearl gemstones:

1. Fake Diamond Gemstones

Fake diamond gemstones are often made from cubic zirconia or moissanite, which are cheaper and easier to produce than diamonds. To spot fake diamond gemstones, look for a lack of natural imperfections, a lack of brilliance, and a rainbow effect when viewed from different angles.

2. Fake Emerald Gemstones

Fake emerald gemstones are often made from glass or synthetic materials. To spot fake emerald gemstones, look for a lack of natural inclusions, a lack of transparency, and a bright green color that is too uniform.

3. Fake Sapphire Gemstones

Fake sapphire gemstones are often made from glass or synthetic materials. To spot fake sapphire gemstones, look for a lack of natural inclusions, a lack of transparency, and a color that is too intense or too light.

4. Fake Ruby Gemstones

Fake ruby gemstones are often made from glass or synthetic materials. To spot fake ruby gemstones, look for a lack of natural inclusions, a lack of transparency, and a color that is too bright or too dark.

5. Fake Pearl Gemstones

Fake pearl gemstones are often made from plastic or glass beads. To spot fake pearl gemstones, look for a lack of luster, a lack of weight, and a surface that is too smooth.

The Importance of Gemstone Certification

Gemstone certification is an important step in ensuring that you are buying an authentic gemstone. Certification provides a written record of the gemstone's authenticity, quality, and value, which can be used for insurance purposes or when reselling the gemstone. Look for certification from organizations such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), or the International Gemological Institute (IGI).

Conclusion

By examining the physical and visual characteristics of gemstones and using testing methods, you can confirm the authenticity of a gemstone and distinguish them from fake imitations. However, it is always recommended to consult with a reputable dealer or gemologist for a definitive identification. With the right knowledge and tools, you can become a savvy buyer and appreciate the beauty of real gemstones.

Lifestyle Fine Jewelry is one of Dubai’s finest jewellers that offer a wide range of high-quality and stylish jewellery pieces for every occasion. Explore Dubai’s finest gemstone collection featuring the most unique designs only on Lifestyle Fine Jewellery. With a commitment to excellent customer service, Lifestyle ensures that every shopper has a personalized and enjoyable shopping experience.