does moissanite pass diamond tester
Does Moissanite Pass a Diamond Tester?
Introduction
If you’re considering moissanite as a diamond alternative, you may wonder, "Does moissanite pass a diamond tester?" The answer is both yes and no, depending on the type of tester being used. Moissanite shares certain properties with diamonds, making it possible for it to occasionally "pass" a diamond test. In this guide, we’ll explore how diamond testers work, why moissanite can fool some of them, and how to accurately distinguish between moissanite and diamonds.
How Do Diamond Testers Work?
Diamond testers are devices used to verify whether a gemstone is a diamond. These testers primarily operate in two ways:
Thermal Conductivity Testers
Diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, and traditional diamond testers measure how quickly heat travels through the gemstone.Electrical Conductivity Testers
Advanced testers can also measure electrical conductivity, a property that varies between diamonds and other gemstones.
Can Moissanite Pass a Diamond Tester?
1. Thermal Conductivity Testers
Moissanite has thermal conductivity properties similar to diamonds. This means that on a basic diamond tester that measures heat, moissanite may register as a diamond. This is why some people refer to moissanite as a “diamond simulant.”
2. Electrical Conductivity Testers
Advanced diamond testers that measure electrical conductivity can usually distinguish moissanite from diamonds. Moissanite conducts electricity differently, making it possible for more sophisticated tools to identify it accurately.
Why Does Moissanite Fool Diamond Testers?
Moissanite shares many properties with diamonds, including high brilliance, durability, and thermal conductivity. These similarities can make it challenging for basic diamond testers to differentiate between the two. However, jewelers equipped with advanced tools and expertise can easily identify moissanite.
How to Accurately Test for Moissanite
If you’re unsure whether a gemstone is a diamond or moissanite, here are a few reliable methods:
Use an Advanced Diamond Tester
Testers that measure both thermal and electrical conductivity are more accurate for identifying moissanite.Magnification
Under magnification, moissanite often exhibits a “double refraction” effect, where facets appear doubled—a property not present in diamonds.Professional Appraisal
A qualified jeweler or gemologist can perform tests to determine the exact nature of your gemstone.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does moissanite pass some diamond testers?
Moissanite has similar thermal conductivity to diamonds, causing basic testers to sometimes mistake it for a diamond.
2. Are there diamond testers specifically for moissanite?
Yes, many advanced testers are designed to distinguish moissanite from diamonds by measuring both thermal and electrical properties.
3. Can moissanite be considered a fake diamond?
No, moissanite is not fake. It is a real gemstone with unique properties, even though it is not a diamond.
Conclusion
Moissanite can occasionally pass as a diamond on basic thermal conductivity testers due to its similar heat-conducting properties. However, advanced diamond testers and professional appraisals can easily differentiate between moissanite and diamonds.
If you’re looking for a gemstone with the brilliance of a diamond but at a fraction of the price, moissanite is a stunning and ethical choice. Want to explore your options? Check out our moissanite jewelry collection and discover why it’s a favorite alternative to diamonds!
