moissanite and diamond tester
In the world of gemstones, diamonds have always held a special place. Known for their brilliance, rarity, and timeless appeal, diamonds have been sought after for centuries. However, as technology advances, so do the methods for creating and imitating these precious gems. Moissanite, a gemstone that closely resembles diamonds, has gained popularity in recent years. This leads us to an important question: Does moissanite pass a diamond tester?
Understanding the Diamond Tester
Before we delve into the capabilities of moissanite and its interaction with diamond testers, let’s first understand what a diamond tester is. A diamond tester, also known as a diamond tester pen or a diamond tester wand, is a handheld device designed to determine the authenticity of a gemstone. These testers are based on the principle that diamonds conduct heat differently than most other gemstones.
How Does a Diamond Tester Work?
Diamond testers work by measuring the gemstone’s thermal conductivity. Diamonds are exceptional conductors of heat, which means they disperse heat quickly. When a diamond comes into contact with the probe of a diamond tester, it rapidly dissipates the heat from the probe, causing a reading that suggests the stone is a genuine diamond.
Is there a moissanite tester?
While there are pen testers designed to yield a specific outcome for moissanite, the most foolproof confirmation method involves observing the phenomenon known as “doubling” under magnification. This approach becomes especially crucial in light of the increasing prevalence of HPHT diamonds, which may register as moissanite when tested with a pen. Fortunately, identifying moissanite through doubling under magnification is both straightforward and dependable. Simply examine the “crown” facets of the stone through a magnifying scope for conclusive differentiation.
Can a Diamond Tester Detect Moissanite?
Now, here’s where things get interesting. Moissanite, while not a diamond, is an excellent conductor of heat, just like diamonds. This property can sometimes lead to false readings when tested with a basic diamond tester. This similarity in thermal conductivity has made it challenging for individuals to distinguish moissanite from diamonds using only a diamond tester.
Moissanite vs. Diamond
To understand why moissanite can trick a diamond tester, let’s take a closer look at their differences:
- Composition: Diamonds are made of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure, while moissanite is composed of silicon carbide.
- Hardness: Diamonds are the hardest natural substance, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale. Moissanite, although very durable, ranks slightly lower at 9.25.
- Brilliance: Both diamonds and moissanite exhibit exceptional brilliance, but some experts argue that moissanite can display even more colorful flashes of light, known as “fire.”
Can People Tell Moissanite Is Not a Diamond?
In most cases, the average person may have difficulty distinguishing moissanite from diamonds with the naked eye. They share many visual similarities, and the differences can be subtle. However, trained gemologists and jewelers can often identify moissanite through magnification and careful examination.
In conclusion, while diamond testers are useful tools for identifying genuine diamonds, they may not always provide a foolproof method for distinguishing moissanite from diamonds due to their similar thermal conductivity. To be absolutely certain, it’s advisable to consult a professional jeweler or gemologist for a thorough assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can a moissanite pass as a real diamond?
Moissanite can closely resemble diamonds in appearance, but a trained expert can usually tell the difference. - Are there any other methods to distinguish moissanite from diamonds?
Yes, professional gemologists can use specialized equipment like spectrometers and microscopes to differentiate between the two. - Is moissanite a valuable gemstone?
Moissanite is more affordable than diamonds, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and jewelry. - Can moissanite scratch or chip easily?
While moissanite is durable, it is not as hard as diamonds, so it can potentially scratch or chip under certain circumstances. - Where can I access more information about moissanite and diamonds?
For detailed information, you can access our comprehensive guide at OneLuckywish