Does Moissanite Pass Diamond Tester?
To answer this question, let’s first get a clear understanding of what exactly a diamond tester is. A diamond tester is a handheld device used by jewelers and gemologists to determine if a stone is a real diamond or a lookalike.
It does this by measuring the rate at which heat moves through the stone. This is also known as thermal conductivity.
The Science Behind Diamond Testers
Diamonds, being a natural conductor of heat, have a high thermal conductivity, meaning heat moves through them quickly. When a diamond tester is placed on a diamond, the heat from the device dissipates rapidly, indicating that the stone is indeed a diamond.
On the other hand, most diamond simulants, like glass or cubic zirconia, have a much lower thermal conductivity. So, when a diamond tester is used on these stones, the heat does not dissipate as quickly, showing that they are not real diamonds.
So, Does Moissanite Pass?
Here’s the twist: moissanite, a popular diamond alternative, also has a high thermal conductivity, very close to that of a diamond. Because of this, moissanite can often pass a traditional thermal conductivity diamond tester.
Other Options for Testing Your Moissanite
As fascinating as gemstones are, distinguishing one from another can be a challenge, especially with moissanite and diamonds. It’s crucial to know the different testing methods for moissanite to ensure its authenticity.
Visual Inspection: Moissanite’s brilliance or light reflection is distinctively different from a diamond’s. Diamonds reflect light in three ways – brilliance (white light), fire (rainbow color reflections), and scintillation (sparkle when moved). Moissanite, on the other hand, reflects more fire, which can give off a rainbow effect.
Weight: Diamonds are denser than moissanite, making them heavier. If you have a precise scale, you can weigh the gemstone to determine if it’s a diamond or moissanite.
Electric Conductivity Test: Moissanite testers are often used as they can distinguish moissanite from diamonds based on conductivity. Diamonds are less conductive than moissanite, making this test quite accurate.
How to Tell Moissanite from Diamond
Telling moissanite from diamond is a skill that requires a keen eye and the right tools. Here are some tips:
Observe under Light: As previously mentioned, moissanite gives off more fire or color reflections compared to diamonds. If you see a rainbow effect under light, it’s most likely a moissanite.
Examine the Facets: Moissanite gems are often cut with a higher number of facets than diamonds, which contributes to their fiery appearance. By examining the cutting pattern, gemologists can typically identify a moissanite.
Use a Loupe: A loupe is a small magnifying glass used by jewelers to inspect gemstones. When viewed under 10x magnification, diamonds display natural inclusions or flaws, while moissanite is almost always flawless.
These methods are not foolproof. For a definitive identification, it’s best to consult a professional gemologist.
Frequently Asked Questions
In our quest to further understand Moissanite and how it compares to diamonds, we have compiled a series of frequently asked questions. This section aims to provide you with more in-depth knowledge about this fascinating gemstone.
How can I Test Moissanite at Home?
Testing moissanite at home is possible, but it requires some specific tools. One method is to use a diamond tester.
Does Moissanite Have the Same Sparkle as a Diamond?
The sparkle, or ‘fire’ of a gemstone, refers to its ability to disperse light into different colors. While both diamonds and moissanite have a high degree of fire, moissanite actually disperses light more effectively than diamonds. This results in a higher level of fire, giving moissanite its renowned sparkling brilliance.
Is Moissanite Prone to Getting Cloudy?
Unlike some gemstones, moissanite does not become cloudy over time. Its crystal structure is stable and resistant to heat and chemicals. This means that with proper care, your moissanite gemstone will retain its clarity and sparkle for a lifetime.
How Long Does Moissanite Last?
Moissanite is a highly durable gemstone, second only to diamond in terms of hardness. This makes it highly resistant to scratches and abrasion, ensuring it can last for generations.
What is the difference between moissanite and lab-created diamonds?
While both moissanite and lab-created diamonds are synthetic stones, they have different physical properties. Lab-created diamonds have the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural diamonds, while moissanite is made from silicon carbide.
Can a Jeweler Distinguish between Moissanite and Diamonds Easily?
Experienced jewelers can often tell the difference due to moissanite’s superior fire. However, for a definitive answer, specialized testing equipment is required.
Conclusion
Testing moissanite involves a combination of techniques, each providing a clue to the gemstone’s true identity. Whether it’s by observing the fire and brilliance, examining the weight, or using a moissanite tester, these methods can help differentiate these visually similar gemstones.
But when in doubt, always seek the expertise of a professional, as they have the necessary tools and knowledge to make a precise identification.