A practical distinction between a genuine diamond and its imitators can be tested with a quick breath or a drop of water, as explained by Elena Rakutina, a jeweler and jewelry fashion expert at SOKOLOV jewelry holdings. Her insights reflect a common challenge in the jewelry world: while diamond jewelry remains a timeless classic and highly sought after, many substitutes are marketed as natural diamonds, including cubic zirconia and moissanite.
Today, a wide range of analogues and imitations exists. Even professional eye and laboratory equipment may struggle to differentiate certain stones from natural diamonds. Still, everyday methods are often used by consumers seeking a quick check before making a purchase. The two most accessible tests involve breath and water, which can provide an initial indication of authenticity in ordinary settings.
The first method relies on the diamond’s thermal properties. When warm breath is gently directed at the stone, a genuine diamond behaves in a characteristic way. If condensation forms and lingers after a few breaths, this suggests that the stone could be a cubic zirconia or moissanite rather than a natural diamond, according to Rakutina. This simple test is not definitive but can help guide a buyer toward more thorough verification.
Another simple approach involves a tiny amount of water. A drop placed on the surface should respond in a way that can yield clues about the stone. If the drop is disturbed by a needle or toothpick and splits into smaller droplets, this observation can indicate that the stone is not a true diamond, potentially pointing to cubic zirconia or moissanite. Rakutina emphasizes that while these observations may be insightful, they are not absolute proof of authenticity.
Ultimately, neither breath nor water tests should be considered precise. They cannot reliably distinguish a synthesized diamond from a natural one. Only a formal certificate provides definitive confidence about a stone’s origin and composition. For buyers, obtaining a certificate is a crucial step in verifying authenticity and value.
When shopping for a diamond, the expert recommends requesting a certificate for the stone. Jewelry should be purchased from reputable stores that provide certified diamonds, ensuring traceability and assurance of quality. This practice helps protect buyers and supports a transparent market where provenance matters just as much as appearance.
In related fashion commentary, a designer once named The knitted cardigan jacket is noted as a stylish alternative to the down jacket, illustrating how jewelry and apparel trends often intersect in contemporary styling—yet diamond authenticity remains a separate and critical consideration for jewelry buyers.