The visual test is a quick way to rule out other gemstones but is not a definitive test. If you see 4 sides in the crystal, use additional methods to verify that it is, in fact, a diamond.
The Mohs Hardness Scale scientifically rates crystals by hardness. Diamonds are a 10 on the scale while corundum is rated a 9. This is why it creates a scratch when you rub the two crystals together.
Diamond testers use thermal and electric conductivity to determine whether your gemstone is a diamond. Cheaper diamond testing devices may not be as accurate as more expensive models. Read customer reviews before you make your purchase.
Some electric scales are more accurate than others. Find one that goes at least 2-3 decimal places after the whole number.
Zeroing out the scale will enable you to determine the specific gravity of the diamond without including the weight of the cup and water. If you don’t have a plastic cup, you can also use lightweight Tupperware or plastic bowl. Make sure that the container doesn’t hang off the edges of the scale.
If you hit the bottom or sides of the cup, the scale will give you an inaccurate reading. The weight of the tip of the paperclip is negligible.
For example, if your stone weighed 12. 6 g (0. 44 oz) and the weight of the suspended gem was 4. 8 g (0. 17 oz) you’d get 2. 625, which would be the approximate density of quartz, not diamonds. [9] X Research source
If you determine that you do have a diamond, you can get it appraised by a professional jeweler.
Cut diamonds will have sharp edges.
Getting your crystal professionally evaluated is the most definitive way to determine whether it is a diamond.
