How to Easily Distinguish Moissanite from Diamond
Moissanite and diamonds may look very similar at first glance, but there are a few simple ways to tell them apart. Whether you're a jewelry enthusiast or just curious, here are some quick methods to distinguish these two gemstones.
1. The Sparkle Test
Moissanite has a higher refractive index than diamonds, which means it sparkles more intensely and with a rainbow-like effect. If you notice a gemstone exhibiting flashes of colorful light, it’s likely moissanite. Diamonds, on the other hand, have a more subdued, white sparkle.
2. The Fog Test
To perform the fog test, breathe on the gemstone as if you're fogging up a mirror. Moissanite will clear up almost instantly, while a diamond will take a bit longer to lose the fog. This is due to differences in heat conductivity between the two stones.
3. Double Refraction
Hold the gemstone up to the light and look through the sides. Moissanite exhibits double refraction, meaning you might see a double image of the facets inside the stone. Diamonds do not have this property and will show only a single reflection.
4. Use a Loupe
If you have a jeweler's loupe or magnifying glass, examine the edges of the gemstone. Moissanite typically has slightly rounded facet edges, while diamonds have sharp, crisp edges. Additionally, under magnification, you might notice the doubled facet lines in moissanite due to its double refraction.
5. Conductivity Test
For those with access to a diamond tester, you can use it to measure the gemstone's thermal conductivity. Both moissanite and diamonds are thermally conductive, so older diamond testers may mistake moissanite for a diamond. However, newer testers that measure electrical conductivity can distinguish between the two, as moissanite is electrically conductive, unlike diamonds.
Conclusion
These methods provide simple, at-home ways to differentiate between moissanite and diamonds. Whether you're verifying the authenticity of a gemstone or just satisfying your curiosity, these tests offer a practical approach to identifying these beautiful stones.