What Is a Diamond Tester?
A diamond tester is a compact, handheld device equipped with a small, needle-like tip that is applied to the stone for testing. By analyzing the gem’s physical properties, it accurately determines if the stone is a genuine diamond. Upon confirming authenticity, the device signals this through its display or an audible alert.
You might wonder how diamond testers function. They assess the stone’s thermal and/or electrical conductivity. Thermal conductivity diamond testers evaluate the amount and speed at which heat passes through the stone. Conversely, electrical conductivity testers measure the amount and speed at which electricity travels through the gemstone.
To elaborate, each gemstone has a distinct chemical structure, affecting how it conducts heat and electricity. Consequently, heat or electricity interacts differently with an authentic diamond compared to a cubic zirconia.
Are Diamond Testers Accurate?
Diamond testers are effective tools for verifying the authenticity of diamonds. However, moissanite can sometimes deceive thermal conductivity diamond testers due to their similar thermal properties. To address this issue, using an electrical conductivity diamond tester is advisable since diamonds and moissanites conduct electricity differently.
Beyond diamond testing devices, several at-home tests can help determine the authenticity of natural and raw diamonds. These include the sandpaper test, read-through test, sparkle test, water test, and heat test. For additional tests on diamonds, click here. However, the most reliable method remains lab certification, such as those provided by GIA or IGI. Diamond testers, even when used by jewelers, cannot match the accuracy of lab assessments.
How to Choose a Diamond Tester
Diamond testers can be purchased and utilized by both professional jewelers and individuals. If you’re considering buying one, keep the following points in mind:
- Choose the latest model: Technology is continually evolving, and diamond testing detectors are no exception. The newest models combine both heat and electricity testing for superior accuracy.
- Select a device that uses electrical conductivity (heat + electricity): This ensures that you can test both diamonds and moissanite effectively.
- Opt for a diamond tester that alerts you if you accidentally touch part of the metal setting instead of the stone. This is crucial as testing the metal rather than the stone can result in a false negative. If the tester doesn’t differentiate metal, you might mistakenly think you’re holding a real diamond when you’re actually touching the setting.
Diamond Shopping Tips
With the abundance of diamond jewelry available online, it’s essential to ensure that the diamond you purchase is both authentic and of the desired quality. Keep these tips in mind when browsing loose diamonds or diamond jewelry online:
- Whether you choose a lab-created or natural diamond, ensure it is certified by reputable institutes such as IGI and GIA. Certified diamonds guarantee authenticity and provide detailed information about the quality.
- Verify the certificate of authenticity. Certified diamonds come with proof of ownership and authenticity, offering peace of mind and confirmation of your authentic stone.
- Purchase from a reputable brand that provides easy return and exchange policies if you’re dissatisfied with the product. Research the company’s warranty, reputation, and their exchange/refund policy.
