Spotting the differences between fake and real diamonds takes some practice. However, there are a few tests you can run to ensure your gems are real before selling diamonds to someone else. Use these methods to reveal the differences between authentic and fake diamonds. 

4 Ways to Distinguish Between Real & Fake Diamonds

1. The Water Test

The water test is a simple way to determine if you have a genuine stone. Fill a drinking glass three-quarters full of water and place the gem in the glass. Real diamonds will sink to the bottom of the cup when placed in water since they're highly dense. Fake stones will hover near the surface or dip slightly beneath it since they're too light to sink. 

2. Heat the Stone 

If you want to further verify the authenticity of your stone, try the heat test. You'll need a cup of cold water for this test, a pair of pliers, and a lighter. Hold the stone with pliers, flick the lighter on to produce a flame, and hold the gem in the fire for at least 40 seconds. 

Then, drop the stone into the cold water immediately. Diamonds are one of the strongest stones on earth, so they won't shatter when shifting between extreme temperatures. If your gem breaks in the cold water, it's not a real diamond. 

3. The Sparkle Test 

All that's needed to conduct this test is the gem and a light source. Real diamonds are multi-faceted with many reflective faces. This means that they'll reflect light very well. 

Imitation diamonds will also reflect light, but not in the same fashion. If your stone glitters brilliantly even under a normal light source, you likely have a real gem. 

4. Diamond Lab Testing 

If you want an extremely detailed profile of your gemstone, you can send it to a diamond lab for intensive testing. These labs use X-ray machines to analyze your stone on a molecular level. Real diamonds have a radiolucent molecular structure, which means that radiation can pass through them since they aren't overly dense. 

If you have a large stone or multiple stones, lab testing may be worthwhile before selling diamonds so that you have an idea of their value. 

If you'd like to sell jewelry or gemstones, get in touch with American Trading Company. This pawn shop is conveniently located in Cincinnati, OH, and accepts many kinds of items, including jewelry, currency, guns, ammo, gold, and more. They offer top dollar for high-quality goods. Visit their website to see what products they buy and sell, or give them a call at (513) 661-3633.