Identifying genuine gemstones requires training or laboratory testing, but studying color spectrum and researching specific stones can help. Look for a full spectrum of colors when exposed to light and know the characteristics of the stone. Documentation and taking time to shop are also important.
In most cases, the only reliable way to identify a genuine gemstone is to have extensive training as a gemologist or jeweler, or to have access to intensive laboratory testing. These options aren’t always practical for the everyday shopper, but knowing a few tips and tricks can make finding a legitimate stone much easier. One of the best places to start is by studying the gemstone’s color spectrum and observing the arc of colors it produces in response to light. Real stones usually show a rainbow that reflects off nearby walls and ceilings. Doing a little research on the characteristics of the specific stone you’re looking for will also help, and getting a professional opinion is almost always a good idea. It’s also very important to take your time and not rush into a buying decision based on appearances alone.
Color test
Most real gemstones will produce a full spectrum of colors when exposed to light, especially sunlight. To see what colors the gem you are considering can produce, expose it to any type of light. By placing the stone close to your eye and tilting it, you should be able to see a variety of colors. A true gem will produce a rainbow of colors; stones that produce nothing are often fake. However, this test is not definitive and some stones, particularly those with very dense and deep coloration or those that have not been fully polished, may not respond. This does not necessarily mean they are illegitimate. If a stone doesn’t create tiny bits of color, the best thing to do is run it through another test, preferably one specific to the stone in question.
Know your stone
There are many different gems, from diamonds and rubies to sapphires, emeralds and more, and each has its own unique characteristics. Determining the real from the synthetic often requires a deep understanding of exactly what the genuine article should look like. It is important to pay attention to both physical attributes and geographical or place markers.
Take the time to find out the qualities of the stone you are looking for, from color to size to common weight. If your stone is not of the same specification, you may not have the genuine item. Asking about the origin can also be helpful. Some stones only come from specific geographic locations, so something that appears to come from an unusual place may not be real.
Knowing a bit about how real gems are worked can also be helpful. You can usually obtain this information by asking a jeweler or gemologist whether or not the stone in question has been treated. Since many different treatments can turn an ordinary stone into a glittering gem imposter, buying a stone that has been treated with a laser or heat is often not a wise idea. Real gems are often cut and polished, but most have not undergone any other treatment.
Importance of documentation
If you’re buying an expensive gem, it’s often a good idea to ask a seller whether or not you can view the stone’s certificate of authenticity. In most places, all “valuable” gems — that is, all gems that have significant value — are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. If the stone you are considering buying doesn’t have a certificate, find out if you can have the stone appraised before buying. Any reputable jeweler should allow for an independent appraisal without discussion.
Take your time
It is usually a good idea to take your time when shopping for gemstones. Look at a few stones before settling on one to get a feel for the market. Backing down can make sellers of counterfeit products nervous, and it can also give you a chance to see if the asking price is fair or normal in your region. Too many people rush to buy a stone that has a good price and guarantees from the seller without doing any investigation on their own. Real gems can be hard to spot, but with a little knowledge and preparation you should be able to tell the perfect stone apart from a synthetic rock.
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