From inherited engagement rings tucked away in boxes to “bargain” jewellery listed on online marketplaces, shoppers are being warned that fake diamonds are becoming harder to spot.
While some counterfeits are obvious, experts say many are now convincing enough to fool buyers who do not know what to look for.
Jewellery expert Mark Conway, of MJJ, has revealed the warning signs people should check before buying diamonds, or when looking through family heirlooms at home.
“Most people think they’d spot a fake straight away, but the reality is that some counterfeit jewellery is much better than people expect,” said Mark.
“The biggest red flag is usually the deal itself. If someone is selling a diamond ring for a fraction of what it should be worth, there is usually a reason.
“That doesn’t always mean it’s fake, but it does mean you should slow down, ask questions and get it checked before handing over any money.”
Mark also warned that online marketplaces can be particularly risky, especially when sellers use pressure tactics or refuse proper checks.
“A genuine seller should understand why you want to have something checked. If they try to rush you, become defensive, or won’t let you get an expert opinion, that should immediately set alarm bells ringing.”
Here are Mark’s eight tips for spotting fake diamonds.
1. Don’t be fooled by sparkle alone
A stone that shines brightly is not automatically a real diamond.
“One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming that sparkle equals value.
“Cubic zirconia and moissanite can both look very bright, and to an untrained eye they can easily be mistaken for diamonds.
“If the stone gives off an exaggerated rainbow sparkle, almost like a disco ball, that can be a clue that it might not be a natural diamond.
“That does not prove it is fake, but it is a reason to have it checked properly.”
2. Look closely at the setting
Mark warned that the ring itself can reveal just as much as the stone.
“If someone is claiming a piece has a valuable diamond, look at what it is set in.
“A high-value diamond is usually set in good quality precious metal. If the claws look uneven, the stone looks loose, or the metal feels poor quality, that should make you pause.
“Check inside the band for a hallmark, this will tell you if the item is made from a precious metal such as gold or platinum. A hallmark consists of three parts, the assay office mark, the sponsor mark and the metal fineness mark. If it is only stamped with a number such as 375, 750 or 950 to indicate the metal, this is a sign it could be fake.
“The setting will not give you the full answer, but it can tell you whether the piece feels consistent with what the seller is claiming.”
3. Be careful with online diamond ‘tests’
Mark said shoppers should not rely on social media hacks or DIY tests when checking diamonds at home.
“There are lots of tricks online, from breathing on the stone to seeing if it sinks in water, but none of these should be treated as proof.
“They might give you a clue, but they will not confirm exactly what the stone is.
“Laboratory grown diamonds can also only be detected by specialist laboratory equipment, so even if it looks like a diamond, it could still be a man-made diamond which are up to 85% cheaper than the natural counterpart.
“If it is an heirloom, an engagement ring, or something you are thinking of buying, it is always safer to have it checked by a professional.”
4. Check the paperwork matches the stone
Mark said certificates and receipts can be useful, but buyers should not trust them blindly.
“Paperwork is important, but it has to match the item in front of you.
“If a diamond comes with a certificate, check that the details line up with the stone being sold. That includes the carat weight, cut, colour, clarity and any identifying numbers.
“Fake paperwork does exist, and genuine paperwork can also be paired with the wrong item.
“If you are buying an expensive diamond privately, do not be afraid to ask for the stone to be checked before you pay.”
Photo by Plato Terentev: https://www.pexels.com/photo/crop-jeweler-with-loupe-and-gemstones-5912127/
