Buying a diamond can be both thrilling and overwhelming. You want to make sure you’re investing in something real and valuable.
In this article, we’ll explore various techniques to verify whether a diamond is real. If you’re curious about making a purchase, this guide is for you!
Table of Contents
Does James Allen Sell Real Diamonds?
Yes, James Allen sells real diamonds. As one of the top online retailers in the diamond industry, James Allen offers both natural and lab grown diamonds. Their inventory is vast, including everything from engagement rings to fine jewelry, all made with authentic diamonds.
The diamonds sold by James Allen are certified by leading organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and American Gem Society (AGS), ensuring you get the real deal.
The Certification of James Allen Diamonds
Every diamond sold by James Allen is certified by reputable third-party organizations like GIA, AGS, and the International Gemological Institute (IGI). These certifications offer a detailed analysis of the diamond’s quality, including the 4 Cs: Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color. This gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for.
Techniques for Verifying a Diamond at Home
While you can trust that James Allen sells certified diamonds, it’s always useful to know how to verify a diamond’s authenticity at home. Here are some simple tests you can perform:
The Fog Test
Breath on the diamond to fog it up like you would on a mirror. If it clears up within a couple of seconds, it’s likely a real diamond. Fake diamonds tend to stay foggy longer.
The Water Test
Fill a glass with water and drop the diamond in. Real diamonds will sink due to their high density, while fake diamonds may float or hover.
The Dot Test
Draw a small dot on a piece of paper and place the diamond over it. If you can see the dot through the diamond, it’s likely a fake. Real diamonds refract light in such a way that you can’t see straight through them.
Observing the Jewelry Setting
Examine the setting the diamond is in. Real diamonds are often set in high-quality materials like gold or platinum. If the setting is cheap or doesn’t seem to match the value of the diamond, be cautious.
Observing the Brilliance
Real diamonds sparkle intensely because they refract light. Hold the diamond under a light and observe its sparkle. Real diamonds produce sharp flashes of light, while fake ones may appear dull or overly rainbow-colored.
The Value of GIA Certification
GIA certification is considered the gold standard in diamond grading. When you purchase a diamond from James Allen, a GIA certification means that the diamond has undergone thorough evaluation for authenticity, quality, and value.
Differences Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds
The primary difference between lab grown and natural diamonds is their origin. Natural diamonds are formed over millions of years deep within the Earth’s mantle, while lab diamonds are made in a matter of weeks in a lab. However, both types are real diamonds, with no visible difference to the naked eye.
How to Shop for Real Diamonds at James Allen
When shopping for diamonds at James Allen, consider the following tips:
- Check the certification – Make sure the diamond comes with a grading report from a reputable organization like GIA.
- Use the 360-degree view – Inspect the diamond thoroughly with the 360-degree video feature.
- Consult with a gemologist – Take advantage of the expert advice offered by James Allen’s team of gemologists.
James Allen’s Reputation in the Industry
James Allen is highly respected in the diamond industry for its transparency, high-quality products, and customer service. They are a trusted retailer, known for their money-back guarantee and commitment to helping customers find the perfect diamond.
What Makes James Allen Stand Out in the Diamond Industry?
James Allen’s innovative approach to selling diamonds online is one reason they stand out. Their 360-degree HD videos allow customers to thoroughly inspect the diamonds before purchasing. In addition to this, James Allen provides excellent customer service, with gemologists available to answer any questions during the buying process.
FAQs
How can you tell if a diamond is real at home?
You can use simple tests like the fog test, water test, or dot test to determine if a diamond is real. Checking its brilliance and examining the jewelry setting are also good indicators.
Is it possible to test a diamond with your phone?
While there are apps that claim to test diamonds, they are not as reliable as physical tests like the fog or water tests.
What is the diamond breath test?
Also known as the fog test, you breathe on the diamond to fog it up. A real diamond will clear up quickly, while a fake one will stay foggy for longer.
Can you tell if a ring is real or fake?
Check the setting and materials used. Real diamonds are often set in high-quality metals like gold or platinum. You can also perform home tests like the fog or dot test.
How can you tell if a diamond is real with a flashlight?
Shine a flashlight through the diamond. Real diamonds will sparkle intensely, while fake ones may look dull or overly colorful.
Conclusion
James Allen offers a wide range of real diamonds, both natural and lab grown, all certified by leading gemological organizations. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring or fine jewelry, you can trust that you’re getting a high-quality, authentic diamond. With a bit of knowledge and some simple tests, you can confidently verify the authenticity of your diamond and enjoy your beautiful new piece.
Jessica is a seasoned content writer with four years of experience and a qualified gemologist. She enjoys educating new shoppers on the best practices for buying jewelry.