Diamond simulants, like cubic zirconia and moissanite, often appear in jewelry. See how the properties of real diamonds compare with popular imitations.
Diamond simulants often appear in jewelry, as side stones and accents as well as centerpieces. Identifying these lookalike materials, whether glass, cubic zirconia, or natural gems that resemble diamonds, is an important skill for gemologists. The chart below compares the physical and optical properties of natural diamonds with those of frequently encountered diamond simulants.
This information, in conjunction with our article on distinguishing diamonds, can help you separate diamonds from their imitators.
Identifying Synthetic Diamonds
Until relatively recently, gem-grade synthetic diamonds rarely appeared in jewelry. This is changing. Consult our article on identifying synthetic diamonds for advice on distinguishing natural or mined diamonds from their lab-created counterparts.
Interested in this topic?
This article is also a part of our Diamond Specialist Certification Course, in the unit Distinguishing Diamonds from Simulants and Synthetics.
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!
Diamond simulants often appear in jewelry, as side stones and accents as well as centerpieces. Identifying these lookalike materials, whether glass, cubic zirconia, or natural gems that resemble diamonds, is an important skill for gemologists. The chart below compares the physical and optical properties of natural diamonds with those of frequently encountered diamond simulants.
This information, in conjunction with our article on distinguishing diamonds, can help you separate diamonds from their imitators.
Identifying Synthetic Diamonds
Until relatively recently, gem-grade synthetic diamonds rarely appeared in jewelry. This is changing. Consult our article on identifying synthetic diamonds for advice on distinguishing natural or mined diamonds from their lab-created counterparts.
Interested in this topic?
This article is also a part of our Diamond Specialist Certification Course, in the unit Distinguishing Diamonds from Simulants and Synthetics.
