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Diamond Purity Check: – Know What’s Real 

Diamonds have long symbolized commitment, elegance, and status. But in a world full of 
sparkle, how do you ensure that the gem you’re investing in is truly authentic? Whether you're 
shopping for an engagement ring, buying a gift, or treating yourself to timeless jewellery, 
knowing how to check diamond purity is a skill worth mastering. 
This guide simplifies the process — from at-home checks to expert tips — helping you 
understand how to know if a diamond is real and how to test its quality like a pro. 

Check the Four Cs First 

Before jumping into advanced tests, start with the basics: the Four Cs — Cut, Color, Clarity, 
and Carat. These are the industry’s global standards for assessing diamond quality, and 
knowing them can give you an edge even before getting into authenticity tests. 

Cut – How Sparkle Speaks Quality 

The cut affects how a diamond reflects light. A well-cut diamond will exhibit intense brilliance 
and sparkle. A poor cut, even on a high-carat stone, may look dull. While the cut isn't directly 
related to purity, a diamond with ideal proportions typically comes from a reputable source — 
giving you peace of mind. 

Colour & Clarity – Grades to Look For

Color is graded from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The more colorless, the rarer the 
stone. 
Clarity evaluates the internal flaws (inclusions) and surface imperfections (blemishes). 
Flawless diamonds are rare, but a good balance of minimal inclusions and color can indicate 
quality. A highly impure fake will often look too perfect or have visible bubbles or cloudy areas. 

Carat – Size vs Quality Balance 

Carat weight matters, but bigger isn't always better. A well-cut, clear 1-carat diamond can look 
more stunning than a 2-carat stone with poor clarity. Purity isn't tied to weight, but understanding this balance helps in assessing the true value of your diamond. 

Use Certified Grading Reports 

If there’s one golden rule in how to check diamond purity, it’s this: ask for certification.

Trusted certification bodies like GIA (Gemological Institute of America), IGI, or HRD issue 
grading reports that verify a diamond’s authenticity and details of its 4Cs. Always match the 
certificate number with the laser inscription on the diamond’s girdle, if available. 

Buying certified not only proves the diamond is real, but it also ensures you’re paying the right 
price for the quality.

Physical Tests You Can Do at Home 

If you’ve already bought a diamond or are considering one without certification, a few simple 
home tests can help you screen its authenticity.

Fog & Water Tests 

Fog test: Breathe on the diamond like you would on a mirror. A real diamond disperses heat 
quickly, so the fog clears in under 2 seconds. If it lingers, it might not be real. 

Water test: Drop the loose stone in a glass of water. A real diamond, being dense, will sink 
immediately. Fakes like cubic zirconia may float or sink slowly.

Magnification & UV Light Test 

Under a jeweller’s loupe or microscope, real diamonds often show natural inclusions or sharp 
facet edges. Fake stones may look flawless, overly smooth, or contain round air bubbles. 
Some diamonds fluoresce blue under UV light — though not all do. This is not a definitive test, 
but if your diamond glows blue, it's likely real. 

Scratch Test Myths 

You might have heard that diamonds can scratch glass. While that’s true, it's not a safe or 
conclusive test. Many synthetic stones can also scratch glass and you risk damaging both the 
diamond and other surfaces. Avoid this outdated myth when considering how to test a 
diamond

Professional Testing Methods 

Want certainty? Head to a certified jeweller or gemologist. 

They use specialized tools like: 
Thermal conductivity testers – Real diamonds disperse heat quickly. 
Electric conductivity meters – Distinguish between diamonds and moissanite (a 
common lookalike). 
X-ray or spectroscopy equipment – To assess the internal structure. 

These tools offer the most reliable results, especially for high-value purchases or vintage 
heirlooms.

Evaluating Diamond Origin (Natural vs Lab) 

Not all diamonds are mined from the earth. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to 
natural ones, making them just as real — but their origin and pricing differ. 


Lab diamonds typically cost less and are more sustainable. A grading report will always mention 
whether a diamond is natural or lab-created. If the origin matters to you, be sure to check. 

Avoiding Fakes: What to Watch Out For 

When unsure how to know if a diamond is real, keep an eye out for: 


● Deals that sound too good to be true 
● Vague or no certifications 
● Lack of return policies or transparency 

Cubic zirconia, moissanite, white sapphire, and even glass are commonly passed off as 
diamonds. A good rule: if the seller can’t explain the 4Cs or produce documents, walk away. 

When to Seek Professional Appraisal & Insurance 

Once you've verified and bought your diamond, consider a professional appraisal. This 
establishes its market value for insurance, resale, or legacy purposes. 


Most reputable jewellery brands, like 3Soul, offer help with certification, appraisals, and even 
insurance recommendations — ensuring peace of mind. 

Conclusion 

Buying a diamond is a meaningful experience — and knowing how to verify its purity makes it 
all the more empowering. From the Four Cs to home and lab tests, you now have the tools to 
confidently assess how to check original diamond quality. 


Remember, certification is king, and when in doubt, turn to professionals. At 3Soul, we believe 
in not just offering exquisite pieces, but also educating our buyers — because true luxury is 
transparent. 

FAQs 

How do I know if a diamond is real? 

You can perform fog and water tests at home, inspect under magnification, or ask for 
certification from GIA or IGI.

What is the fog test for a diamond? 

Breathe on the stone — if the fog disappears in 1-2 seconds, it’s likely real. Slower evaporation 
may indicate a fake.

Does a real diamond sink in water? 

Yes. Real diamonds are dense and sink immediately. Fake ones may float or settle slowly. 

How accurate are home diamond tests? 

They offer quick clues, but aren’t 100% foolproof. Always pair them with certification or 
professional assessment. 


Explore certified diamond jewellery you can trust at 3Soul.in – where quality meets clarity.