Spotting fake moissanite can be a challenging task, as the gemstone’s popularity has grown in recent years. Moissanite, a lab-created alternative to diamonds, possesses brilliance and durability that makes it a sought-after choice for jewelry. However, as demand rises, so does the prevalence of counterfeit or misrepresented moissanite.
Even with the ever-increasing popularity and production of moissanite, keen buyers will easily note the fake version of it. Therefore, it is important to be informed so that you do not spend your hard-earned cash on poor-quality gems. The trick is simple – get professional knowledge of moissanite and everything around its production.
Help with Genuine Moissanite: How to Keep Off Fake Deals
Every purchase comes at a cost and more especially if you are dealing with gemstones. The cost will be significant. Therefore, do not leave your purchase to chance without making a good review. Make sure you understand what you are buying before giving out your money in the jewelry store. To ensure you are investing in genuine moissanite, consider the following tips.
- Examine the price
While moissanite is generally more affordable than diamonds, an exceptionally low price might indicate a fake. Genuine moissanite is still a valuable gem, and prices should reflect its quality. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they often involve imitations or inferior materials.
- Inspect the clarity of the stone
Authentic moissanite typically exhibits a high level of clarity, with minimal inclusions or imperfections. Fake moissanite may have visible flaws, cloudiness, or inconsistencies that compromise its overall appearance. Take the time to closely examine the gem under good lighting to identify any irregularities.
- Consider the color
Genuine moissanite often appears colorless or near-colorless, similar to high-quality diamonds. If you notice a yellow or brown tint, it could be a sign of a fake moissanite. Hold the stone against a white background and observe its color in different lighting conditions to assess its authenticity.
- Examine the hardness
Moissanite is known for its impressive hardness, ranking just below diamonds on the Mohs scale. Use a simple scratch test to evaluate the gem’s resistance to abrasion. Genuine moissanite should not easily scratch or show signs of wear, confirming its durability.
- Verify the source
Purchase moissanite from reputable and established jewelers or dealers. Authentic moissanite is created in laboratories using advanced technology, ensuring consistent quality. Be cautious when buying from unknown sources or unverified online platforms, as they may offer fake or misrepresented moissanite.
- Check for proper certification
Genuine moissanite should come with certification from recognized gemological laboratories. Look for documentation that confirms the stone’s authenticity, including details about its carat weight, cut, color, and clarity. A lack of certification or vague documentation may indicate a fake or subpar moissanite.
- Evaluate the brilliance
One of the distinctive features of moissanite is its exceptional brilliance and fire. Authentic moissanite reflects light in a way that creates a mesmerizing sparkle. Hold the gem under various light sources and observe how it interacts with light. A lackluster or dull appearance may suggest a counterfeit moissanite.
- Use a thermal conductivity test
Moissanite has significantly higher thermal conductivity than most gemstones, including diamonds. Jewelers often use specialized testing equipment to measure this property. While this test may not be practical for consumers, it is worth asking the seller if they have conducted thermal conductivity testson their moissanite products.
- Be cautious of overly large stones
While moissanite can be found in larger carat weights, excessively large stones at unusually low prices may be suspicious. Counterfeit moissanite or other imitation gemstones may be used to create the illusion of a larger, more valuable stone. Compare the size and price to industry standards to assess its legitimacy.
There is no shortcut to getting quality moissanite. You need to be sure of what you are looking for in the market. When stuck, the help of a professional is a good consideration to make.
Final Thoughts
You will need a combination of careful examination, knowledge, and verification of the source to spot fake moissanite. By considering factors such as price, clarity, color, hardness, source credibility, certification, brilliance, and conducting relevant tests, you can make an informed decision when purchasing moissanite. Investing time in scrutinizing these aspects will not only help you identify genuine moissanite but also ensure that you get the quality and value you expect from this popular gemstone.
