How to Identify Real and Fake Diamonds? A Simple Guide for Perth Shoppers

Buying a diamond is a major investment—whether it’s for an engagement ring, a gift, or a personal treat. But how can you be sure the diamond you're buying is the real deal? With synthetic stones, simulants, and fakes on the market, spotting a genuine diamond isn’t always easy.

If you're shopping in Western Australia and want peace of mind, this guide will walk you through how to identify real and fake diamonds. And if you're considering a GIA certified diamond Perth, you're already on the right path toward making a smart, informed choice.

Why People Fake Diamonds in the First Place

Before diving into identification tips, it's worth understanding why fake diamonds exist at all. Real diamonds are rare, valuable, and highly sought-after. Fakes, such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, can look similar to the untrained eye but are significantly cheaper to produce.

Unfortunately, some dishonest sellers take advantage of this by passing off imitations as the real thing—especially when no certification is provided.

Top Methods to Identify a Real vs. Fake Diamond

Here are several simple (yet effective) ways to test a diamond’s authenticity. Some of these you can do at home, but others require expert tools or verification by a professional jeweller.

1. Check for GIA Certification

Let’s start with the most foolproof method—certification. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is one of the most trusted diamond grading bodies in the world. If you’re buying a GIA certified diamond in Perth, you're getting a stone that has been tested, graded, and verified by global gem experts.

Always ask to see the diamond’s GIA certificate, which includes:

• A unique identification number
  
  

• The diamond’s 4Cs (Carat, Cut, Colour, Clarity)
  
  

• A diagram of inclusions
  
  

• Security features to prevent forgery
  
  

If a seller can’t provide certification, or the certificate doesn’t match the diamond, walk away.

2. The Fog Test

Diamonds have excellent thermal conductivity. Try breathing on the diamond like you would fog up a mirror. If it stays fogged for more than a couple of seconds, it’s likely fake. A real diamond disperses heat quickly and the fog should disappear almost instantly.

3. The Water Drop Test

Real diamonds have a high density. Drop your stone into a glass of water. If it sinks to the bottom quickly, it's likely real. Most fake diamonds will float or sink slowly due to being made from lighter materials like glass or cubic zirconia.

4. Use a Loupe or Magnifying Glass

Real diamonds usually have imperfections, called inclusions. A perfect-looking stone under magnification might actually be a sign of a synthetic or imitation diamond. Jewelers use 10x magnification to inspect these flaws.

Also, check the edges—real diamonds have sharp edges, while fake stones tend to have rounded or polished corners.

5. Test Its Sparkle

Genuine diamonds reflect light in a unique way. They sparkle with a brilliant white light (called brilliance) and also give off a rainbow-like spectrum (called dispersion). Cubic zirconia might appear more rainbow-like, but it won’t have the same brilliance or depth.

Tip: Take your diamond into natural sunlight and compare it to a known real stone. The difference in sparkle can be quite telling.

6. UV Light (Black Light) Test

Under a UV light, many diamonds glow blue. This isn’t a conclusive test, as not all diamonds fluoresce—but it can be one more clue in identifying the stone. Be cautious though—some fakes also glow, just in different colours (like yellow or green).

Why Choose GIA Certified Diamonds in Perth?

If you’re serious about getting a real, high-quality diamond in Perth, don’t just rely on DIY tests. While home tests are helpful, they aren’t foolproof. The best protection is buying a GIA certified diamond from a trusted local jeweller.

A GIA certified diamond in Perth means:

• Verified authenticity
  
  

• Transparent pricing based on actual grade
  
  

• Confidence in your investment
  
  

• Resale value backed by certification
  
  

In Perth, many reputable jewellers specialise in GIA certified stones, offering you access to premium quality diamonds with full grading reports and even laser-inscribed GIA ID numbers on the stone itself.

Where to Buy GIA Certified Diamonds in Perth

Look for jewellers that:

• Display certifications upfront
  
  

• Offer free in-store diamond inspections
  
  

• Have strong customer reviews
  
  

• Are transparent about the origin and grading of their diamonds
  
  

Avoid sellers who push uncertified stones or refuse to provide documentation.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to identify a real diamond from a fake is a valuable skill—but nothing beats buying from a source you trust. For Perth shoppers, seeking out a GIA certified diamond Perth option means you're getting a gem that’s been rigorously tested, properly graded, and worth every dollar.

Whether you're considering a customised diamond engagement ring or exploring mined diamond rings for a special occasion, always make sure your choice is backed by trusted certification.