Diamonds are one of the most precious and sought-after gemstones in the world. Whether you are in the jewelry industry or a diamond enthusiast, it's important to have a reliable way to test whether a diamond is real or fake. This is where diamond testers come in handy. In this guide, we'll go over what diamond testers are, how they work, the different types of diamond testers, and what factors to consider when choosing one.

How Diamond Testers Work

Diamond testers work by testing the thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, or ultraviolet light properties of a diamond. Here's a breakdown of how each type of test works:

Thermal Conductivity Testing: This test measures how fast heat travels through a diamond. Diamonds have a very high thermal conductivity, which means that they conduct heat very quickly. A thermal conductivity tester will have a heated probe that is placed on the diamond. If the diamond is real, the heat will transfer quickly, causing the probe to cool rapidly. If the diamond is fake, the heat will not transfer as quickly, causing the probe to cool more slowly.

Electrical Conductivity Testing: This test measures how well a diamond conducts electricity. Diamonds are not good conductors of electricity, but some diamond simulants (such as moissanite) are. An electrical conductivity tester will have a probe that sends a small electrical charge through the diamond. If the diamond is real, the electrical charge will not pass through it. If the diamond is a simulant, the electrical charge will pass through it easily.

Ultraviolet Light Testing: This test uses ultraviolet light to detect the fluorescence of a diamond. Most diamonds will fluoresce under UV light, but some diamond simulants will not. An ultraviolet light tester will emit UV light onto the diamond and the diamond will emit a different colored light in response. If the diamond is real, it will emit a blue light. If the diamond is a stimulant, it may emit a different colored light.

The Development of Diamond Testers

The development of diamond testers is an interesting story that spans over a century. The first diamond testers were developed in the early 20th century, and they relied on a very simple principle: diamonds conduct heat better than any other material.

In the early days, diamond testers were crude devices that involved heating a small metal tip and touching it to the diamond. If the diamond was real, it would conduct the heat away from the metal tip very quickly, and the metal tip would cool down almost immediately. If the diamond was fake, the heat would not conduct away as quickly, and the metal tip would stay hot for longer.

This method was effective but time-consuming, and it required a lot of skill to perform accurately. Over time, diamond testers became more sophisticated, and new technologies were developed to make the testing process faster, easier, and more accurate.

One of the most significant advancements in diamond testing technology was the invention of electronic diamond testers in the 1970s. These devices used electrical conductivity to test for diamonds and were much faster and more accurate than earlier methods.

Another major breakthrough came in the 1990s when testers using ultraviolet light became available. These testers relied on the fact that diamonds fluoresce under ultraviolet light, while most imitations do not. This made diamond testing even faster and more accurate, and ultraviolet diamond testers are still widely used today.

In recent years, advancements in technology have led to the development of even more advanced diamond testers, such as those that use spectroscopy to analyze the light that a diamond reflects. These testers can provide even more detailed information about a diamond, such as its color grade and clarity grade.

Overall, the development of diamond testers has been a fascinating journey, driven by a desire to accurately identify diamonds and protect consumers from fraud. Today, diamond testers are more advanced and accessible than ever before, making it easier for anyone to test the authenticity of a diamond quickly and accurately.

Types of Diamond Testers

There are three main types of diamond testers: thermal conductivity testers, electrical conductivity testers, and ultraviolet light testers. There are also combination testers that can perform two or more of these tests. Here's a breakdown of each type:

Thermal Conductivity Testers: These testers are the most common type of diamond tester. They are reliable and accurate for testing diamonds of all sizes. Some popular models include the Presidium Gem Tester II and the GemOro Ultratester II.

Electrical Conductivity Testers: These testers are good for testing diamonds that are mounted in jewelry. They are also useful for detecting diamond simulants that are electrically conductive. Some popular models include the Diamond Selector II and the GemOro AuRACLE AGT1.

Ultraviolet Light Testers: These testers are good for detecting diamond simulants that do not fluoresce under UV light. They are also useful for detecting treatments that have been applied to diamonds. Some popular models include the Presidium Gemstone Tester and the GemOro UltraTester II.

Combination Testers: These testers can perform two or more of the above tests. They are useful for testing a wide range of diamonds and diamond simulants. Some popular models include the Presidium DuoTester and the GemOro Diamond and Moissanite Tester.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Diamond Tester

When choosing a diamond tester, there are several factors to consider:

Price: Diamond testers range in price from under $50 to over $500. Consider your budget and how often you'll be using the tester before making a purchase.

Accuracy: Look for a diamond tester that is accurate and reliable. Read reviews and do your research before making a purchase.

Ease of Use: Consider how easy the tester is to use. Is it user-friendly and straightforward, or does it have a steep learning curve? Make sure to choose a tester that you feel comfortable using.

Portability: If you plan on taking your diamond tester with you on-the-go, consider its size and weight. Look for a tester that is portable and easy to carry around.

Battery Life: Most diamond testers run on batteries, so consider the battery life of the tester you're interested in. Look for a tester with a long battery life or one that can be easily recharged.

How to Use a Diamond Tester

Using a diamond tester is relatively straightforward, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Here's a general guide for using a diamond tester:

Preparation: Before testing your diamond, clean it thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, or residue. Make sure your diamond tester is calibrated correctly and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Performing the Test: Depending on the type of diamond tester you have, the process may differ slightly. In general, you'll need to place the probe on the diamond and wait for the results. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow them precisely.

Interpreting the Results: After performing the test, the diamond tester will give you a result indicating whether the diamond is real or fake. Read the instructions carefully to interpret the results correctly.

Tips for Maintaining Diamond Testers Effectively

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using a diamond tester:

Calibrating the Tester: It's essential to calibrate your diamond tester regularly to ensure accurate results. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and calibrate your tester as often as necessary.

Cleaning the Tester: Clean your diamond tester regularly to remove any dirt, dust, or residue that may interfere with its accuracy. Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution.

Maintaining the Tester: Take care of your diamond tester by storing it in a safe, dry place and avoiding any damage or impacts. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintaining your tester to ensure its longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, diamond testers are an essential tool for anyone working with diamonds or interested in diamond testing. By understanding how diamond testers work, the different types of testers available, and what factors to consider when choosing one, you can make an informed decision and select the right tester for your needs. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you'll be able to use your diamond tester accurately and effectively, providing you with peace of mind and confidence in your diamond testing abilities.