How to Tell if a Mounted Diamond is Real

1. The Sparkle Test:
Real diamonds are known for their incredible brilliance and fire. The way they sparkle and reflect light is distinct from other gemstones. Hold the diamond under a bright light and observe how it disperses light into various colors. Fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, might sparkle but often lack the depth and range of a real diamond.

2. The Fog Test:
Breathe on the diamond to create a foggy mist on its surface. Genuine diamonds disperse heat rapidly, so the fog should disappear almost instantly. If the fog lingers, the diamond might be a fake or a lesser-quality gem.

3. The Water Test:
Drop the diamond into a glass of water. Real diamonds have high density and will sink to the bottom. Imitations, such as glass or plastic, might float or hover near the surface.

4. The Scratch Test:
Diamonds are the hardest known natural material, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale. If you have a hard, smooth surface, try scratching it with the diamond. A real diamond should not scratch, but this test should be done cautiously as it can damage the diamond or the surface.

5. The UV Light Test:
Diamonds can exhibit fluorescence under UV light. A real diamond might glow blue, while many fakes do not fluoresce or may glow differently. This test is not foolproof as some diamonds do not fluoresce, but it can be a helpful indicator.

6. The Loupe Test:
Using a jeweler’s loupe, inspect the diamond closely. Look for internal flaws or inclusions, known as "blemishes," which are natural in real diamonds. Additionally, check for a consistent sparkle pattern and avoid stones that have visible imperfections or bubbles.

7. The Professional Appraisal:
For a definitive assessment, take the diamond to a certified gemologist or a professional jeweler. They use specialized equipment, such as a refractometer or a spectroscopy tool, to analyze the diamond's authenticity with high precision.

8. The Certification Check:
If the diamond comes with a certification from a reputable gemological institute, such as the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), verify its authenticity. Certificates provide detailed information about the diamond’s quality and authenticity, and discrepancies can indicate a potential issue.

9. The Mounted Setting Check:
Evaluate the setting of the mounted diamond. Real diamonds are often set in high-quality metals, such as platinum or gold. If the mounting is poorly made or the metal seems cheap, it could be a sign that the diamond is not genuine.

10. The Cost Comparison:
Lastly, consider the price. Genuine diamonds, especially high-quality ones, are expensive. If the deal seems too good to be true, it might be worth investigating further to ensure the diamond's authenticity.

By using these methods, you can confidently determine whether your mounted diamond is real or an imitation. Remember, when in doubt, always consult with a professional for an accurate assessment.