If you’re looking to make a statement with your jewelry, you can’t go wrong with a diamond. But with so many options available, how do you know if what you’re buying is the real deal? This is a question that has plagued customers who have shopped at Zales for years. Does Zales use real diamonds in their pieces, or are they relying on synthetic substitutes to cut costs? It’s a fair question, and one that deserves a closer look.
To start, let’s establish that Zales is one of the most well-known and respected jewelry brands out there. The company has been around since 1924, and has built a reputation for quality and reliability. But when it comes to diamonds, even the most trusted brands can fall short. With so many companies producing high-quality synthetic diamonds that are virtually indistinguishable from natural ones, it’s no wonder that customers are curious about what they’re really getting.
So, does Zales use real diamonds? The answer is yes. The company sources its diamonds from trusted suppliers and uses rigorous quality standards to ensure that every gemstone is genuine. Zales also offers a certification program that allows customers to verify the authenticity of their diamond, giving them peace of mind when they’re making such an important investment. So, if you’re in the market for a diamond piece, you can feel confident that Zales will deliver the real deal.
What are diamonds?
Diamonds are a type of mineral made up of only one element – carbon. The carbon atoms in diamonds are arranged in a crystalline structure known as a diamond lattice, giving diamonds their unique and coveted properties. They are the hardest natural material on Earth, with a 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means they are virtually unscratchable and incredibly durable.
Diamonds come in a variety of colors, from white to black to pink to blue, but the most common commercial diamonds are colorless or near-colorless. The value of a diamond is determined by its size, clarity, color, and cut. These four factors are known as the “Four Cs” of diamond grading, and they play a crucial role in determining the price and quality of a diamond.
Types of diamonds
- Natural diamonds: Diamonds that are mined from the Earth’s crust
- Synthetic diamonds: Diamonds that are created in a laboratory setting
- Treated diamonds: Diamonds that have been enhanced to improve their appearance
Diamond mining
Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme heat and pressure. Over millions of years, volcanic activity pushes diamonds to the Earth’s surface, where they can be mined. Diamond mining can be a difficult and dangerous process, with environmental and ethical concerns surrounding the industry.
The diamond industry has taken steps to address these issues, with the creation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) and other initiatives aimed at ensuring that diamonds are mined and traded responsibly.
Diamond grading
Diamonds are graded based on the Four Cs – carat weight, clarity, color, and cut. These factors are used to determine the quality and value of a diamond. Higher-quality diamonds are typically more expensive, although there are many factors that can affect the price of a diamond, including supply and demand.
| Carat weight | Clarity | Color | Cut |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diamond size, measured in carats | The presence or absence of blemishes or inclusions | The presence or absence of color | The angles and proportions of a diamond’s facets |
Diamonds are typically graded by independent laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI), which provide reports that detail the specifics of a diamond’s quality and characteristics.
How to Identify Real Diamonds?
It is not uncommon for people to be unsure whether a diamond is real or fake. Synthetic diamonds and diamond simulants have become increasingly prevalent over the years, making it difficult for the average person to distinguish between them. However, there are a few straightforward tests that one can perform to identify a real diamond. These tests will help to dispel any doubts and assure you that your diamond is genuine.
- 1. Fog Test – This test requires breathing on the diamond and observing it immediately. If the diamond stays fogged for a short period, it is undoubtedly fake. However, if it clears up immediately, it is real.
- 2. Water Test – Fill a glass with water and place the diamond in it. If the diamond sinks, it is genuine, but if it floats or remains suspended, it is fake. The water should be clean and free of any oils or residue, which could add to the confusion.
- 3. Diamond Tester – Professionals and jewelers use this device to assess the authenticity of a diamond. The tester performs a thermal conductivity test that determines whether a diamond is genuine or not. This is the most reliable test to identify a real diamond.
It is worth noting, however, that some diamonds may pass one or two of these tests, but that does not necessarily mean they are fake. It is useful to get a second opinion from a professional jeweler, who can carry out more intricate tests.
If you still have any queries about whether your diamond is real or fake, consult with a reputable jeweler or diamond appraiser. They have the expertise, equipment, and assets necessary to determine the diamond’s authenticity and quality definitively.
How Do Jewelers Provide Proof of Diamond Quality?
Jewelers can provide proof of diamond quality in the form of a grading certificate. These reports are typically issued by independent gemological laboratories, which test the diamond and assign it a grade based on its characteristics. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS) are the most popular and trustworthy organizations that provide grading certificates.
These reports give customers an added degree of certainty and transparency about the diamond that they are purchasing. The certifications feature comprehensive reports that assess the diamond’s color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. The reports are different from appraisals, which focus on the diamond’s worth rather than its quality.
Once a diamond is certified, it maintains that certification throughout its life. The certification can be useful when you decide to sell your diamond, as it assures the buyer of its authenticity and quality. So, when buying a diamond, it’s always recommended to ask your jeweler for a grading certificate from an independent gemological laboratory.
| GIA Diamond Grade | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Flawless (FL) | No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification |
| Internally Flawless (IF) | No inclusions visible but an insignificant blemish under 10x magnification |
| VVS1, VVS2 | “Very, very slightly included” – Inclusions are present but incredibly difficult to see under 10x magnification |
| VS1, VS2 | “Very slightly included” – Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification but are minor and do not affect appearance |
| SI1, SI2 | “Slightly included” – Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification and may affect appearance |
| I1, I2, I3 | “Included” – Inclusions are visible under 10x magnification and significantly affect appearance |
Grading certificates and diamond tests may seem like additional steps when purchasing diamond jewelry. However, these measures ensure that you invest in a genuine, beautiful, and valuable piece that you can cherish for a lifetime.
How to tell the difference between real and fake diamonds?
With so many diamond imitations in the market, it is essential to know how to distinguish between real and fake diamonds. Below are ways to tell if a diamond is genuine:
- Check the weight: Diamonds are heavy minerals, and their weight in carats can determine their authenticity. If a gemstone appears too light or too heavy, it is likely a fake diamond.
- Examine the setting: Look at the metal setting that holds the diamond. High-quality diamonds are often set in metals such as platinum or gold, while fake diamonds are typically in low-quality settings like brass or copper.
- Test the diamond: Another way to determine if a diamond is real is by testing it. Jewelers use various machines such as thermal testers or electrical conductivity to verify if a diamond is genuine. However, these tests can be expensive, so only professional jewelers can do them.
The 4Cs of Diamonds
One of the most effective ways to tell if a diamond is genuine or fake is to evaluate the Four Cs of diamonds. The Four Cs are:
- Carat: The carat weight of the diamond determines its size and value. Genuine diamonds are typically more valuable and heavier than fake ones.
- Clarity: A diamond’s clarity pertains to the presence or absence of blemishes or inclusions. Fake diamonds often have visible flaws, while genuine diamonds have minimal inclusions or none at all.
- Color: Genuine diamonds typically have a colorless or slightly yellowish hue. If a diamond appears to have too much color, it may be fake.
- Cut: The cut of the diamond refers to its proportions, symmetry, and angle. High-quality diamonds have excellent cuts that enable them to reflect light efficiently, while poor cuts on fake diamonds mean they won’t sparkle as much.
Diamond vs. Moissanite
Moissanite is a mineral that is often used as a diamond simulant. It is almost as hard as a diamond and has a higher refractive index, making it highly reflective and sparkly. To the naked eye, Moissanite and diamonds appear the same, but Moissanite has slight differences that can help distinguish it from real diamonds. The table below shows the differences between a diamond and moissanite to help you tell them apart:
| Feature | Diamond | Moissanite |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 9.25 |
| Refractive Index | 2.42 | 2.65-2.69 |
| Color | Colorless and colored | Yellow, Green, or Gray |
Knowing how to differentiate between real and fake diamonds can save you from buying an imitation diamond at the price of a real one. Be sure to seek the help of professional jewelers and acquire diamond certifications to validate the authenticity of your diamond.
Why is diamond certification important?
When purchasing a diamond, it’s important to ensure that it’s a real, high-quality diamond. This is where diamond certification comes in. Diamond certification is the process in which a third-party organization evaluates and grades a diamond based on its characteristics, such as its cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. Here are four reasons why diamond certification is important:
- Assurance of authenticity: Diamond certification provides assurance that the diamond is real and not a fake or synthetic diamond. This is especially important for higher priced diamonds as it can prevent buyers from being scammed.
- Evaluation of quality: The certification provides an evaluation of the diamond’s quality based on the 4 Cs. This helps buyers make informed purchasing decisions and ensures they are getting the best value for their money.
- Comparison shopping: With a certification, buyers can easily compare the quality and value of different diamonds to ensure they are getting a fair price for their purchase.
- Resale value: Should buyers ever decide to sell their diamond, having a certification can increase the resale value and make the process easier by providing a verified record of the diamond’s quality.
What goes into diamond certification?
Diamond certification involves a detailed examination of the diamond’s 4 Cs by a gemologist using specialized equipment and techniques. The diamond is evaluated based on its cut, which refers to how well the diamond has been cut to reflect light and maximize its sparkle. Clarity, which refers to the number and size of inclusions or blemishes on the diamond’s surface and inside. Color, ranging from colorless to a light yellow or brown hue, with the highest value typically given to colorless diamonds. Carat weight, which is the measurement of how heavy the diamond is, with one carat equaling 0.2 grams.
Once the evaluation is complete, the diamond receives a certification report that provides a detailed description of its characteristics and a unique identification number that can be used to track the diamond’s history. This report also includes a digital image of the diamond and any inscriptions or engravings present on the diamond, and it may include additional information such as the diamond’s fluorescence or polish.
The Significance of the 4 Cs of Diamonds
When it comes to buying diamonds, it’s important to understand the 4 Cs. First coined by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the 4 Cs represent carat weight, clarity, color, and cut. These four factors are used to evaluate the quality and value of a diamond.
- Carat Weight: This refers to the weight of a diamond. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams, and larger diamonds with higher carat weights tend to be more valuable.
- Clarity: This measures the presence of internal and external blemishes or inclusions within a diamond. The less impurities, the higher the clarity grade.
- Color: This refers to the absence of color within a diamond. A completely colorless diamond is considered the most valuable.
Understanding Cut
The cut of a diamond is another crucial factor that affects its beauty and value. While the other three Cs are properties of the diamond itself, the cut is determined by the diamond cutter’s skill. The cut defines the angles and proportions of a diamond and directly affects its brilliance, fire, and scintillation.
For buyers, it’s essential to select a diamond with a good cut, as it has the greatest effect on the diamond’s overall appearance. Stones that are too shallow or too deep will allow light to escape the sides or the bottom, reducing their brilliance. A well-cut diamond, on the other hand, will reflect light internally and project it through the top.
Diamond Certification
To make sure you’re buying a quality diamond, look for a trusted certification. The GIA, for example, is a non-profit organization that sets industry standards for gemstone evaluation. They provide a detailed certification report including the 4 Cs of a diamond and the cut grade. This report will ensure you’re purchasing a diamond that’s worth its value.
| Carat Weight | Clarity | Color | Cut |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 0.5 | Flawless to SI2 | D to F – colorless to near-colorless | Ideal |
| 0.5 to 1.0 | Flawless to VS1 | D to G – colorless to near-colorless | Ideal to Very Good |
| 1.0 to 2.0 | Flawless to SI1 | D to H – colorless to near-colorless | Ideal to Very Good |
| >2.0 | Flawless to SI1 | D to I – colorless to near-colorless | Ideal to Very Good |
Overall, understanding the 4 Cs of diamonds can help you make an informed decision when buying a diamond. While all four factors are essential, the cut plays the most significant role in determining a diamond’s beauty.
Frequently asked questions about diamond quality.
Diamonds are known for their beauty and rarity, but also for their quality. The quality of a diamond can be determined by the 4Cs: carat weight, cut, color, and clarity. However, there are many other questions people have about diamond quality that are frequently asked in the industry. Below are some of the top frequently asked questions about diamond quality:
- Does Zales use real diamonds?
- What is the difference between a natural diamond and a lab-created diamond?
- How can I tell if a diamond is real or fake?
- What is a diamond certificate and why is it important?
- Is a higher carat weight always better?
- Does the cut of a diamond affect its quality?
Let’s dive deeper into the sixth question:
Does the cut of a diamond affect its quality?
The answer is yes, the cut of a diamond does affect its quality. The cut of a diamond refers to how well the diamond was cut and how well it reflects light. A well-cut diamond will reflect light better than a poorly cut diamond, and will therefore be more valuable.
There are three main aspects to a diamond’s cut:
| Table | The table is the large, flat facet on the top of the diamond. It should be as large as possible without sacrificing the diamond’s other qualities. |
| Crown | The crown is the top portion of the diamond between the table and the girdle. It should be angled correctly to reflect light properly. |
| Pavilion | The pavilion is the bottom portion of the diamond between the girdle and the culet. It should be angled correctly to reflect light and prevent light leakage. |
When a diamond is cut properly, light enters the top and reflects off the individual facets, creating a brilliance and fire that is highly desirable. If a diamond is cut too shallow or too deep, light will leak out the bottom or be obstructed, resulting in a dull, lifeless appearance.
So, when shopping for diamonds, it’s important to consider the cut along with the other 4Cs. A well-cut diamond can make all the difference in the beauty and value of your diamond.
Diamond Buying Tips for Beginners
If you’re a beginner in diamond buying, you’re probably wondering if stores like Zales use real diamonds. The short answer is yes, Zales uses real diamonds in their jewelry. However, it’s important to understand how to determine the quality and value of a diamond before making a purchase. Here are some tips for buying diamonds that will help you make informed decisions.
- Learn the 4Cs: The 4Cs stand for color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. These are the key characteristics used to evaluate a diamond’s quality. By understanding how the 4Cs affect a diamond’s appearance and value, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions when shopping.
- Set a budget: Diamonds range in price from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Determine your budget before you start shopping so you don’t overspend.
- Choose a reputable jeweler: Look for jewelers with long-standing reputations for quality and customer service. If you’re unsure, ask for recommendations from friends or family members.
When it comes to evaluating diamond quality, it’s important to understand the 4Cs. Here’s a breakdown of each characteristic:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Diamond color is measured on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (yellow or brown). The less color a diamond has, the more valuable it is. |
| Clarity | Diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal and external imperfections called inclusions and blemishes. The fewer imperfections a diamond has, the more valuable it is. |
| Cut | Diamond cut refers to how well the diamond is proportioned and how it interacts with light. A well-cut diamond will appear more brilliant and sparkly than a poorly cut diamond. |
| Carat weight | Diamond carat weight refers to how much the diamond weighs. Generally speaking, the larger the diamond, the more valuable it is. |
By understanding these characteristics, you’ll be able to evaluate a diamond’s quality and value when shopping. Keep in mind that a diamond’s value is also influenced by its shape, fluorescence, and other factors. Do your research and don’t be afraid to ask questions when shopping for diamonds.
Does Zales use real diamonds? FAQs
1. Are the diamonds at Zales lab-created or fake? No, Zales only sells real, natural diamonds.
2. What quality are Zales diamonds? Zales sells diamonds of various qualities, ranging from lower-end to high-end.
3. How can I be sure that the diamonds at Zales are genuine? Zales provides a certificate of authenticity for its diamond products.
4. Is it possible to distinguish Zales diamonds from other natural diamonds? No, Zales diamonds are not unique in any way that would distinguish them from other natural diamonds.
5. What is the source of Zales diamonds? Zales sources its diamonds from various mines around the world.
6. Does Zales have any diamond alternatives? Yes, Zales offers a variety of alternative gemstones, but they are clearly labeled and advertised as such.
7. Does Zales offer lifetime warranties for its diamond products? Yes, Zales offers a lifetime diamond commitment that includes cleaning, repair, and replacement for any diamond product purchased from their stores.
Thanks for Checking Out Our FAQs About Zales Diamonds!
We hope that our FAQs helped answer your questions about whether or not Zales uses real diamonds. As one of the leading jewelry stores in the industry, Zales is known for their quality and commitment to customer satisfaction. If you have any further questions or concerns, please reach out to their customer service team. Thank you for reading!