What do you call a diamond that isn’t really a diamond at all? Some might say it’s a fraud, while others might call it an imposter. But, in the jewelry world, the term used to describe a fake diamond is a “simulant.”
Simulants are made to look like diamonds, but despite their similarities, they are not the same. Some common forms of diamond simulants include cubic zirconia, moissanite, and white topaz. While these stones may look stunning when set in a ring or necklace, they are often chosen as lower-cost alternatives to real diamonds.
When it comes to purchasing jewelry, it’s important to know the difference between a simulant and a genuine diamond. While the former may offer a more cost-effective option, it does not have the same value as a precious diamond. It’s also worth noting that some jewelers may try to pass off a simulant as a real diamond, so it’s crucial to shop with a trustworthy source. At the end of the day, whether you opt for a simulant or a diamond comes down to personal preference and budget.
Synthetic Diamonds
As technology advances, so does the ability to create diamonds in laboratories. These diamonds are known as synthetic diamonds, and they are produced using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) methods.
Unlike fake or imitation diamonds, synthetic diamonds have the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds. They are just created in a lab instead of being mined from the earth.
Advantages of Synthetic Diamonds
- They are usually cheaper than natural diamonds.
- They are more environmentally friendly as they don’t require mining.
- They are just as hard and durable as natural diamonds.
Disadvantages of Synthetic Diamonds
One disadvantage of synthetic diamonds is that they lack the rarity and unique character of natural diamonds. Additionally, not all synthetic diamonds are created equal in terms of quality. Some synthetic diamonds may have impurities or imperfections that can affect their beauty and value.
Synthetic Diamonds vs. Real Diamonds
| Criteria | Synthetic Diamonds | Natural Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Laboratories | Mines |
| Price | Cheaper | More expensive |
| Rarity | Less rare | More rare |
| Appearance | Can be just as beautiful as natural diamonds, but some may have impurities or imperfections | Naturally beautiful, but may have imperfections or inclusions |
Ultimately, whether you choose a synthetic or natural diamond depends on your personal values and preferences. But with advancements in technology, synthetic diamonds are becoming a popular and more affordable option for those looking for a beautiful and durable alternative to natural diamonds.
Difference between Synthetic and Natural Diamonds
As we covered earlier, synthetic diamonds are created in a laboratory setting and are not naturally formed in the earth. Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are mined from the earth and have been formed over millions of years under intense pressure and heat. But what are the specific differences between these two types of diamonds? Let’s take a closer look.
- Composition: While both synthetic and natural diamonds are made of carbon, their compositions differ slightly. Synthetic diamonds are created using a chemical vapor deposition process or a high pressure high-temperature process, which results in a diamond that has a much more uniform composition compared to natural diamonds. Natural diamonds can contain various impurities and inconsistencies in their composition.
- Appearance: While synthetic diamonds can be made to closely mimic the appearance of natural diamonds, there are certain characteristics that may help to distinguish between the two. For example, synthetic diamonds may have a more perfect symmetry and may not always have the natural inclusions found in natural diamonds.
- Certification: To help consumers determine whether a diamond is natural or synthetic, certification agencies such as the Gemological Institute of America provide reports that detail a diamond’s characteristics and composition. These reports can help to verify the authenticity and value of a diamond.
In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of synthetic diamonds due to their lower cost and potential ethical advantages (such as avoiding the environmental impact of diamond mining). However, it’s important to note that natural diamonds still hold a special place in the world of luxury and are often valued for their rarity and history.
Overall, the choice between a synthetic and natural diamond ultimately depends on personal preference and priorities. Whether you’d prefer a more affordable synthetic diamond or a rare and precious natural diamond, it’s important to do your research and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your investment.
| Characteristic | Synthetic Diamond | Natural Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | More uniform | Potentially impure or inconsistent |
| Appearance | Can closely mimic natural diamonds | May have natural inclusions and imperfections |
| Certification | Certification available to verify authenticity | Certification available to verify authenticity |
| Price | Lower cost compared to natural diamonds | Higher cost due to rarity and production process |
When considering a diamond purchase, take time to assess your priorities and make an informed decision. Whether you choose a synthetic or natural diamond, both have their unique advantages and can hold significant value.
Identifying Fake Diamonds
When purchasing diamonds, it is essential to know how to identify real diamonds from fake ones. Below are some key tips to help you determine if a diamond is genuine or fake.
- Weight: One way to test whether a diamond is genuine is by checking its weight. Real diamonds are much denser than fake ones, so they should feel heavier in your hand compared to a fake diamond of the same size.
- Scratch Test: Diamonds are incredibly hard, so they cannot be scratched by other materials. You can perform a scratch test on a piece of glass or a ceramic tile. If the diamond leaves a scratch on the surface, it is likely genuine. However, with modern diamond simulants, this is not a reliable test.
- Brilliance Test: A real diamond will reflect light in a unique way, producing an inner sparkle, known as its brilliance, that simulates an ice cube in sunlight. Check the diamond’s reflection against a white background, like a piece of paper. If the reflections show a rainbow of colors or if you see gray or black bright spots, it might be a fake diamond.
Color and Clarity Testing
The color and clarity of a diamond is another way to determine if a diamond is genuine or not. High-quality diamonds will often have a clear or slightly yellowish color. You can compare the color of the diamond to the color of a certified diamond, or you can utilize a stone reference set, specifically designed for testing diamonds. Additionally, real diamonds will have tiny imperfections, called inclusions, usually visible under magnification and could affect its price. The more visible the inclusions, the lower grade the diamond will be.
The Diamond Tester Technology
Diamond testers are electronic and affordable devices that help differentiate between real and fake diamonds by identifying the thermal properties of diamonds accurately. Heat conductivity testing, measuring a diamond’s ability in distributing heat, is a reliable method in testing a diamond’s authenticity. Thermoelectric diamond testers are also available, which measures the electrical resistance of real diamonds.
GIA Verification
| GIA Verification | |
|---|---|
| GIA or Gemological Institute of America provides accredited diamond expert attestations of diamond quality. By examining the diamond’s 4C’s- carat weight, color, clarity, and cut, GIA can assess the grade of a diamond properly. They inspect diamonds through microscopic technology to determine whether the diamond is natural or synthetic, as well as hue, clarity grade, and cut quality. |  |
Take your diamond to a reputed jeweler, and they can advise you further on. They can confirm if your diamond is a natural diamond or if it’s one of the many synthetic diamonds that flawlessly resemble the real thing.
Remember, It’s worth investing in a real diamond to make sure you’re getting the highest quality and value for your money. Follow these tips to keep yourself safe when purchasing diamonds and to avoid getting tricked into buying fake stones.
Types of Simulated Diamonds
Simulated diamonds are those that mimic the look and feel of real diamonds, but are not actually made of the same materials. There are various types of simulated diamonds available in the market, ranging from the most common cubic zirconia to more advanced diamond simulants. In this article, we will discuss the four types of simulated diamonds: moissanite, cubic zirconia, white sapphire, and glass.
- Moissanite: Moissanite is a diamond simulant that resembles a diamond nearly perfectly. It is made of silicon carbide and has a higher refractive index than diamonds, giving it more brilliance and sparkle. Moissanite is also very hard and durable, making it a popular choice for engagement rings. While moissanite is not a diamond, it is one of the closest simulants available on the market.
- Cubic Zirconia: Cubic zirconia (CZ) is the most popular diamond simulant. It is affordable, widely available, and often used in costume jewelry. Cubic zirconia is made of zirconium oxide and has a lower refractive index than diamonds, which means it may not be as brilliant or fiery as a diamond. However, CZ is still a great option for those looking for an inexpensive alternative to diamonds.
- White Sapphire: White sapphire is a natural gemstone that is often used as a diamond simulant. It looks similar to a diamond, but it is not as hard and does not have the same fire and brilliance. White sapphire is a good choice for those who want a natural stone that looks like a diamond, but do not want to spend as much money as they would on a genuine diamond.
- Glass: Glass is another commonly used diamond simulant. It is cheap and easy to manufacture, but it does not look as realistic as some of the other simulants. Glass does not have the same fire or brilliance as a diamond, and it can scratch and chip easily. It is not recommended for everyday wear or engagement rings.
The Table of Comparison of Different Simulated Diamonds
| Moissanite | Cubic Zirconia | White Sapphire | Glass | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | Silicon carbide | Zirconium oxide | Natural gemstone | Glass |
| Refractive Index | 2.65 – 2.69 | 2.15 | 1.76 – 1.78 | 1.52 |
| Hardness | 9.25 | 8.5 | 9 | 5-6 |
| Cost | Higher | Lower | Moderate | Lowest |
| Fire and Brilliance | Higher | Lower | Lower | Lowest |
When choosing a simulated diamond, it’s important to consider the look, durability, and cost. Each of these diamond simulants has its own unique properties, so it’s up to the individual to determine which option is best for their needs and budget.
Characteristic of Simulants
In the world of diamonds, often diamonds are compared to fake or simulants. Simulants are stones that are used to imitate the characteristics of a true diamond. There are several types of simulants in the market, each with unique characteristics that differentiate them from real diamonds. Here are some common characteristics of simulants:
- Lower hardness: One key characteristic that differentiates a diamond from simulants is the diamond’s hardness level. True diamonds are the hardest mineral known to man, with a value of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, while simulants are generally less hard than diamonds and have a lesser value on the Mohs scale.
- Colour: Diamonds come in various colours, but if a diamond is colourless, it is often seen to have a high value. However, many simulants like cubic zirconia (CZ) tend to appear ‘too perfect’ with no visible blemishes and a colourless complexion, which diamond buyers should be aware of.
- Weight: Simulants are generally heavier than diamonds. For example, a diamond weighing 1 carat will look smaller than a 1-carat simulant, as simulants are denser. Many unscrupulous sellers will deceive buyers by stating that the simulant is a diamond that is sold at a lower price.
How to differentiate Simulants from Diamonds?
To avoid being scammed, it is crucial to be able to differentiate simulants from diamonds. The first step would be to get an expert opinion. Accessing a licensed jeweller with the right equipment is essential in testing the authenticity of the stone. The following table shows an overview of the key differences between tested diamonds and simulants:
| Diamonds | Cubic zirconia | Moissanite | White Sapphire | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness (on Mohs scale) | 10 | 8.5 | 9.25 | 9 |
| Colourless? | Varies | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Price per carat | Depends on quality | Low | High | High |
Moreover, simulated diamonds seem too perfect, lacking any inclusions or blemishes, or ar simply too bright to be real. Real diamonds will typically sparkle less because of light reflecting from within the stone.
Pros and Cons of Simulants
Sometimes referred to as “fake diamonds,” simulants are man-made stones that mimic the appearance of diamonds. While they may look like the real thing, they lack the unique physical and chemical properties of genuine diamonds. Below are the pros and cons of using diamond simulants instead of real diamonds:
- Pro: Affordability – Simulants are often a fraction of the cost of genuine diamonds, making them an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Pro: More options – Because simulants can be created in a lab, there are far more options in terms of colors, shapes, and sizes than with real diamonds.
- Pro: Ethics – For buyers who are concerned about the ethics of diamond mining and the potential for purchasing “blood diamonds,” simulants provide a more ethical alternative.
- Con: Durability – Simulants are typically less durable than diamonds, which can lead to chipping and scratching over time.
- Con: Lack of value – While simulants may be more affordable upfront, they do not hold their value like genuine diamonds do. This can make them a poor investment choice.
- Con: Visibility – To the trained eye, simulants are often easily recognizable as fake, which can be a turnoff for some buyers.
If you decide to purchase a simulant instead of a real diamond, it’s important to understand the limitations and potential drawbacks. While they may be more affordable and offer more variety in terms of options, they cannot provide the same value and longevity as genuine diamonds. Be sure to do your research and consider your priorities before making a purchase decision.
| Simulant Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cubic Zirconia | Low cost, high durability | Can appear too “perfect”, lacks fire and brilliance of diamonds |
| Moissanite | Closest in appearance to diamonds, high durability | Can appear too “rainbow-like”, may have visible inclusions |
| Lab-grown diamonds | Look and perform like real diamonds, ethical sourcing | Can be more expensive than some simulants, may still lack the uniqueness of natural diamonds |
When choosing a simulant, consider your budget, priorities, and expectations. Cubic zirconia may be a good choice for those looking for a low-cost option, while lab-grown diamonds may be a better fit for those seeking a more ethical and sustainable alternative. Choose the option that feels right for you and your needs.
Tips for Buying Real Diamonds
Many people dream of owning a diamond, but with so many fakes on the market, buying the real thing can be a daunting task. Here are some tips to ensure that you are buying a genuine diamond:
- Buy from a reputable dealer: Always buy from a dealer that has a good reputation in the market. Avoid buying from unregulated or unknown sellers.
- Get it certified: Ask for a diamond certificate that verifies the authenticity of the diamond. This certificate should have details like the cut, carat, clarity, and color of the diamond.
- Check the diamond for flaws: Look for any inclusions or blemishes on the diamond using a magnifying glass. Real diamonds typically have some inclusions, but fake ones usually do not.
What is a Fake Diamond called?
A fake diamond is commonly called a “simulant” or a “diamond imitation.” This can include cubic zirconia, moissanite, and other materials that mimic the look of a diamond but are not actually diamonds.
How to Spot a Fake Diamond
There are several things to look out for when trying to spot a fake diamond:
- Too perfect: If the diamond looks too perfect, it could be a fake. Real diamonds usually have some minor inclusions and blemishes that are visible under magnification.
- Too lightweight: Real diamonds are denser than fake ones, so if the diamond feels too light, it could be a fake.
- Too sparkly: Some fake diamonds have a different type of sparkle than real ones. If the diamond appears to have rainbow-colored flashes or too much sparkle, it could be a fake.
Diamond Grading
Diamond grading is the process of evaluating the quality of a diamond based on factors like cut, carat, clarity, and color. The most widely used grading system is the GIA diamond grading system, which assigns a letter grade to each of these factors to determine the overall quality of the diamond.
| Factor | Grades |
|---|---|
| Cut | Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor |
| Carat | Weight of the diamond |
| Clarity | Flawless, Internally Flawless, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2, I1, I2 |
| Color | D (colorless), E (colorless), F (colorless), G (near colorless), H (near colorless), I (near colorless), J (near colorless), K-L (faint yellow), M-Z (light yellow) |
By understanding diamond grading and using the tips provided above, you can confidently purchase a real diamond that will last a lifetime.
What Is a Fake Diamond Called FAQs
1. What is a fake diamond called?
A fake diamond is called a diamond simulant or a synthetic diamond.
2. What is a diamond simulant?
A diamond simulant is a gemstone that looks like a diamond but is made of materials like cubic zirconia, moissanite, or glass.
3. What is a synthetic diamond?
A synthetic diamond is a diamond made in a laboratory instead of being formed naturally underground.
4. Is cubic zirconia a fake diamond?
Yes, cubic zirconia is a diamond simulant and is often used to imitate diamonds because of its high brilliance and low cost.
5. Is moissanite a fake diamond?
Moissanite is a diamond simulant, but it is not considered a fake diamond. It is a unique gemstone with its own characteristics and properties.
6. Why do people buy fake diamonds?
People buy fake diamonds for many reasons, including affordability, ethical concerns surrounding diamond mining, and the desire to wear a beautiful gemstone without spending a lot of money.
7. How can I tell if a diamond is fake or real?
There are several ways to tell if a diamond is fake or real, including using a diamond tester, checking the diamond’s weight and size against industry standards, looking for imperfections and inclusions, and observing the diamond’s sparkle and brilliance in different lighting conditions.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our article on what a fake diamond is called! Whether you’re shopping for a diamond simulant or just curious about different types of gemstones, we hope you found this information useful. Don’t forget to visit our website again for more jewelry and fashion tips!