1. The Fog Test

A quick way to check if a diamond is real is to breathe on it and observe how it reacts. Genuine diamonds will quickly clear up, while imitation stones, such as cubic zirconia, will fog up and take longer to return to normal. This is because diamonds are excellent at dispersing heat, whereas fakes don’t have the same properties.

2. Check the Setting

Genuine diamonds are often set in high-quality settings that add value to the piece. At Ryan Thomas Jewellers, we offer a variety of stunning settings, from solitaires to halo designs, that complement the beauty of a real diamond. If the setting appears cheaply made, it might be a sign the stone is not genuine.

3. The Water Test

Diamonds have a high density and will sink when dropped into a glass of water. Simply fill a glass with water, and drop your stone in. If it sinks, it’s likely a real diamond. If it floats or hovers in the water, it is likely a fake. This test works because a genuine diamond’s high density makes it heavier than most imitation stones.

4. Magnification and the "Inclusions" Test

One of the key features that distinguish real diamonds from fakes is the presence of natural inclusions, also known as “blemishes” or “imperfections.” These small flaws are unique to each diamond and are usually visible under magnification. At Ryan Thomas Jewellers, we hand source all of our diamonds, and you can feel confident that each one is carefully inspected for quality.

Imitation diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, often appear flawless under magnification. However, a real diamond will show signs of nature’s touch, adding character and uniqueness to the stone.

5. Look for a Certificate of Authenticity

When buying an engagement ring from a trusted jeweller, like Ryan Thomas Jewellers, you will receive a certification for the diamond. This certificate, often from a reputable grading institution like the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), confirms the authenticity of the diamond and provides important information, such as its cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. This guarantees that your diamond is genuine, giving you peace of mind when making such a significant purchase.

6. Check the Reflective Properties

Diamonds have a unique ability to reflect light, creating flashes of rainbow colours known as “fire.” Hold your diamond up to the light, and if it reflects a stunning array of colours, you’ve got a real one. Fake diamonds, such as cubic zirconia, may sparkle brightly but will lack the same depth and rainbow-like reflections that are characteristic of genuine diamonds.

7. Compare to Known Fakes

If you’re uncertain whether your diamond is real, comparing it to a known fake might help. At Ryan Thomas Jewellers, all our engagement rings feature diamonds with superior quality, so you can trust that what you’re purchasing is the real thing. Fakes are often lighter, less dense, and will have a different sparkle, which can easily be spotted when compared to a genuine diamond.

8. Consult a Professional

Finally, if you’re still in doubt, the best way to verify your diamond is by consulting a professional jeweller. At Ryan Thomas Jewellers, our experts can help you confirm the authenticity of your diamond and explain its quality in greater detail. With years of experience and access to specialised tools, we can provide an accurate assessment of your diamond’s authenticity.

Conclusion

When it comes to purchasing an engagement ring, the authenticity of the diamond is crucial to its value and lasting beauty. At Ryan Thomas Jewellers, we offer only the highest-quality diamonds, each certified and carefully selected to ensure they meet the highest standards. Whether you’re looking for a classic solitaire, a vintage-inspired halo, or a custom design, you can trust that every diamond from Ryan Thomas Jewellers is a genuine masterpiece.

Explore our full collection of engagement rings, and let us help you choose the perfect ring for the one you love.