How to spot a real diamond from a fake

Here is a simple test we can perform to determine if the stone in question is a diamond or a Zircon.

First, take a blank sheet of paper with a pen and draw a point on the sheet.

Then take the stone in question and the reverse of the sheet. We will position the diamond with the table down and centered on the point.

When you center stones about...

Zircon in the reflection point will appear circular easily through the roof. In contrast in the diamond will break up the reflection to become almost imperceptible. The stone on the left is the Zircon, for against the stone on the right is a diamond.

Additional Tests

Know the weight. With a precision balance, you can distinguish a diamond from a Cubic Zircon. A Zircon weighs nearly twice as a diamond of the same size. 1.00 ct diamond weighs 0.20 grams.

Scratches / scuffs. The diamond, in contrast to Zircon, has a maximum hardness and unchanging over time. With the use of a magnifying glass we can get a good overview of the facets of the diamond and the surface of the stone.

In a diamond we will never see a lot of scratches and scuffs, plus the edges between the facets are very sharp and pointed.

In a zircon we will scratch more easily and more edges between the facets are always rounder than those of diamond.