If you’re unsure of whether or not a stone’s name means that it’s fake, you can always consult a list of misleading gemstone names online to find out by visiting https://www. gemsociety. org/article/list-false-misleading-gemstone-names/. Stones with names like Oriental emerald, American ruby, or Australian jade could be a green sapphire, a garnet, or treated quartz respectively. If they’re real, they’ll just be called emeralds, rubies, or jade.
If you are purchasing a gemstone online and only have photographs to consult, a fake gemstone will usually be unusually brilliant in color and have perfect lines running through it.
You should also look for scratches on the gemstone. Most gemstones are hard and durable, so scratches or other signs of external damage indicate that the stone isn’t real. [4] X Research source Jeweler’s loupes come with either a single lens or with 3 lenses. A single lens loupe is generally cheaper but of lower quality. [5] X Research source Most professional jewelers use a loupe with a 10x magnification. [6] X Research source Keep the focal length (distance between the loupe and gem) in mind. A longer focal length means a weaker magnification, and vice versa. [7] X Research source
You should focus in particular on the hue (color), tone (how dark or light the color is), and saturation (the intensity of the color). [8] X Research source The hue will help you identify the general type of stone, while the tone and saturation will help you pinpoint the specific variation of that stone you possess. [9] X Research source A high value emerald, for example, will be blueish green or pure green, with a light tone and vivid saturation (it should be almost transparent). [10] X Research source Using a light source like a desk lamp can make your inspection of the stone easier. [11] X Research source
To test amber, see if it floats in water. Real amber will float, fakes will sink. [14] X Research source To test jet, rub it with sandpaper. If it is fake, it will produce brown dust. If it’s real, it won’t produce any dust. [15] X Research source You can also test jet by inserting a hot needle into the stone. A fake stone will bubble and produce an acrid smell, a real stone won’t be affected. [16] X Research source To test if jade is fake, hold it up to a light source to search for inclusions. Fake jade will be flawless. [17] X Research source You can also lightly strike the jade with glass or metal. If it’s real, the jade will make a tinkling sound. [18] X Research source
You can use the American Gem Society’s database to find a certified jeweler by visiting www. americangemsociety. org/page/findajeweler. You can also use the Gemological Institute of America’s database to find a certified jeweler by visiting https://www. gia. edu/retailer-lookup.
Jewelers with the highest possible credentials should be able to test your stone on the spot. Lesser qualified jewelers may need to send your stone away for testing. [21] X Research source
